What Are the 6 "Noble" Wine Grapes?

Kiana Keys 🍇

DipWSET | Wine Educator

What Are the 6 “Noble” Wine Grapes?

What are the noble wine grapes of the world? How are they chosen? Read more!

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White:
Chardonnay
Riesling
Sauvignon Blanc

Red:
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Pinot Noir

What are 6 Original "Noble" Grapes?

Six noble grapes varieties are highly-regarded and considered the cornerstone to wine-making. Unlike other varieties that may be specific to one region, the noble grapes are grown all over the world and are known to reflect the region in which they are grown. For example, a Pinot Noir grape grown in a cool, northern region will most likely taste very different than that same grape grown in a southern, hot region.

The noble grapes are often used in blends, but are also noted for their stand-alone fame and appeal. Thus, these grapes are commonly sold as a single varieties.

White Noble Grapes

Chardonnay is a non-aromatic white grape variety originating from France. It is a relatively easy grape to work with for a couple reasons. First, it can be grown successfully in a variety of different climates, from cool Chablis, France to hot California. Second, its neutral flavors give wine-makers wide latitude to play around with it in the winery in order to make an array of unique tastes. Depending on the climate, its flavors can range from green and citrus fruits in cooler growing zones to tropical fruits in warm and hot areas.

Riesling is an aromatic white grape variety most commonly grown in cool to moderate regions, like Alsace, France and Germany. Although it is generally associated with sweet wine, there are many dry expressions as well. In fact, Riesling is so versatile that it can be made from dry to sweet, fresh to aged.

Sauvignon Blanc is an aromatic white grape variety originating from France. Today, it is one of the most popular grapes grown in cooler to moderate climates, usually as a single varietal. It is known for its high acidity, citrus fruits and herbaceous flavors (think green bell pepper.) Because its commonly grown in cooler climates, it is able to maintain its acidity and refreshing characteristics.

Red Noble Grapes

Cabernet Sauvignon is a black grape from Southwestern France and is the love child of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc- hence its name. Today, it is one of the most popular grapes grown across the world, both as a varietal and blending partner. It is known for its deep black fruit, herbaceous notes, grippy tannins and powerful alcohol. Cabernet grapes grown in warmer climates can even produce “cooked fruit” characteristics.

Merlot is a black grape variety originating from Southwest France. Today, it is planted all across the world and produced as both a single varietal and blending partner. Known for its medium-full body, Merlot can take on a range of characteristics from light and fruity, to aged and complex. It expresses both red and black fruit notes, and even herbaceous flavors (think green bell pepper) in its youth.

Pinot Noir is a very old black grape variety originating from Burgundy, France. Relatively speaking, it is a somewhat challenging grape to grow because it is highly susceptible to damage during spring frosts and rainy/humid weather around harvest time. As a result, many Pinot Noir wines are on the pricier side. It is often one of the most sought after wines, with historical roots in religious practices like communion and other highly-esteem rituals.