What is a noble grape?
The term ‘noble grape’ has traditionally been used to refer to grape varieties famous for consistently producing high-quality wines in various regions around the world.
However, there is no official definition for what qualifies as a noble grape – the term is historical and originates from the classic wine regions of Europe.
Traditionally, just six grape varieties were considered noble: three white (Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc) and three red (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir).
However, with the global expansion of wine production, many grape varieties beyond the original six ‘noble’ ones have consistently demonstrated their ability to produce high-quality wines.
Despite the lack of consensus among experts, the moniker is still helpful in identifying grape varieties with a proven record of producing excellent wines.
1. Chardonnay
Chardonnay grapes make a wide variety of wine styles, from crisp and mineral in cooler climates to rich and buttery in warmer regions. Flavours range from green apple and citrus to tropical fruits and even caramel and vanilla when oak-aged.
This green-skinned grape was first grown in the Burgundy region of France, but it is now a popular grape variety around the world. In the warmer climates of California’s Napa Valley and Australia’s Margaret River, Chardonnay often produces richer, fuller-bodied wines with ripe tropical fruit flavours.
2. Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc grapes make dry, white wines with high acidity. Look for zesty, citrus flavours such as grapefruit and green fruit with herbaceous notes such as green bell pepper, grass and sometimes even a flinty minerality.
This green-skinned grape variety has strong historical ties to Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, particularly the regions of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé.
5. Merlot
A popular red grape from France’s Bordeaux region, Merlot is known for its ability to adapt to different landscapes and climates. The Merlot grape variety creates wines that range from light and fruity to rich and full bodied.
Merlot wines are typically softer and have lower tannins than other reds, making them enjoyable to drink even when young. They often feature flavours of black cherries and plums, often with herbal notes adding complexity.
6. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a red grape originally from Burgundy, renowned for making elegant and refined wines. However, this thin-skinned grape can be tricky to grow. Sensitive to heat, frost, moisture and wind, they prefer cool, dry climates.
These wines are usually light- to medium-bodied, with high acidity and fresh red fruit flavours – think strawberries, raspberries and cherries. As the wine ages, it can develop complex earthy and savoury flavours.
Red wine varietals
- Grenache is known for its berry-rich, spicy wines, often used in Rhône blends.
- Sangiovese is the backbone of Italian wines such as Chianti and is recognised for its cherry flavour and earthy notes.
- Nebbiolo produces the renowned Italian Barolo and Barbaresco wines, which have high tannins and flavours of cherry, anise and rose.
- Tempranillo is central to Spain's famous Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines. It is characterised by flavours of plum, cherry and leather.
- Syrah produces bold, full-bodied wines with dark fruit flavours and peppery spice. It is famous in the Rhône Valley and Australia (where it’s known as Shiraz).
- Malbec is known for its plump, dark fruit flavours and smoky finish, with wines from Argentina particularly celebrated.
The five noble grapes of Bordeaux
The term ‘noble grapes’ is often used in relation to Bordeaux’s red wines. The region’s blends are traditionally created using a combination of five noble grape varieties, each contributing unique characteristics to the Bordeaux blend.
- Cabernet Sauvignon – Typically used in Left Bank Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure, acidity, tannic intensity, and flavours of blackcurrant and green bell pepper.
- Merlot – Merlot is grown on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. With its red fruit characteristics, this grape softens the blend, adding body and notes of cherries and berries.
- Cabernet Franc – This grape is usually used in smaller proportions but is essential to Bordeaux blends. It provides a herbal note and adds freshness with its naturally high acidity.
- Malbec – Malbec is less commonly used but adds a deep colour, tannic structure and dark fruit flavours to blended wines.
- Petit Verdot – Often used sparingly, Petit Verdot contributes colour, tannic structure and a violet aroma to the blend. It also has darker fruit notes and a hint of spice.
