Wine Names

Most wines get their names from the types of grapes they are made from, while others particularly European varieties, may get their names from the regions where they are from. A wine that is named after it's grape variety is called a varietal. It's really simple: Pinot Noir is made from Pinot Noir grapes; Chardonnay is made from Chardonnay grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon is made from Cabernet Sauvignon, same as Zinfandel, Merlot, Sangiovese and Pinot Gri... and so on. Champagne, Sherry, and Port wines are the more well known blended wines. You will find wines that have more than one grape that are blends. Vintners would blend wine made from different grapes in order to add more complexity to the flavor and texture of the wine.