In the wine world, varietal refers to a wine made primarily from a single grape variety, which is indicated on the wine label. For example, a bottle labeled as Cabernet Sauvignon is a varietal wine made mostly from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Common varietals include Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Riesling.
Varietal labeling is common in the New World wine regions, such as the United States, Australia, and South Africa. In contrast, Old World regions like France or Italy often label their wines by the region or appellation, assuming that consumers are familiar with the types of grapes grown there (for example, Bordeaux or Chianti).
To be considered a varietal wine in many regions, the wine must contain a certain minimum percentage of the named grape, usually around 75-85%, though this can vary by country. The remaining portion of the wine can be blended from other grape varieties, but the primary varietal will still dominate the wine’s characteristics.
Varietal wines are an excellent way for wine enthusiasts to explore the distinct characteristics of different grape types, as each varietal brings its own unique flavors, aromas, and textures to the wine.
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