Chardonnay: What is its origin and how do its flavors vary in cool vs hot climates?
Origin: Burgundy, France.
Cool climate flavors: citrus, green fruit, vegetal.
Hot climate flavors: tropical fruit
Pinot Noir: What is its origin and what are its skin and tannin characteristics?
Origin: Burgundy, France.
Skin: thin
Tannin: low
Cabernet Sauvignon: What is its origin and what are its key characteristics?
Origin: Bordeaux, France.
Thick skin, high tannin and acidity, good for ageing
Merlot: What is its origin and how does its ripening compare to Cabernet Sauvignon?
Origin: Bordeaux, France.
Ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sauvignon Blanc: What is its origin and what are its main characteristics?
Origin: Loire Valley, France.
Aromatic, high acidity, usually unoaked
Shiraz/Syrah: What is its origin and what are its characteristics?
Origin: Rhône Valley, France.
Full-bodied, medium-high tannins, dark fruit, spice
Riesling: What is its origin and what are its key characteristics?
Origin: Germany.
High acidity, aromatic, can age well