OUR GRAPE VARIETIES
The vine variety traditionally designates a type of grape-bearing vine. Technically, these are cultivars, but the term “variety” has become entrenched in viticulture. It is characterized by the shape of its leaves and its grapes. There are 350 vine varieties in the world. Wines from J.P. Chenet are made with the best known of these.
Le cabernet-sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is the classic red variety of Bordeaux. It is one of the world’s most prevalent vines (it can be found just as easily in Canada as Australia) and grows in diverse climatic conditions. It has a unique fragrance – its characteristic varietal aroma of green pepper – and produces wines with pronounced tannins.
La syrah
With its mysterious origins (although it most likely comes from the Rhone area), Syrah is widespread in France and worldwide, especially in South Africa and Australia. It produces very colourful wines with flavours of small red fruits. Its aroma is reminiscent of violet.
Le merlot
A member of the Cabernet family, Merlot originates from the Pays de Libournais (western France). Today, it is the most widely-grown vine in Bordeaux and covers a total area of more than 200,000 hectares around the world. It produces easy-to-drink, colourful, smooth and fat wines that develop a rich bouquet during maturation.
Le cinsault
Originating in Provence, Cinsault rapidly took root in the Rhone Valley and the Languedoc region because it yields so generously. It produces wines that are generally low in alcohol and high in acidity, boasting almond and raspberry flavours.
Le grenache
Grenache is a red variety originating in Spain. It arrived in France in the Middle Ages and spread to every region with a Mediterranean climate. It now covers over 250,000 hectares from California to Australia. This variety offers fruity wines of vivid colour.
Le colombard
Colombard is a golden white variety from the Charentais region. It grows in southwest France and was for many years the most common white variety in the United States. It produces fresh wines with citrus aromas, especially lemon.
Le chardonnay
The world’s most popular white variety, Chardonnay started out life in a Burgundian village of the same name near Macon. Today, it covers 150,000 hectares around the world, including in Chile, California and Australia. The wine it produces has great finesse with discreet aromas and a character that develops over time.
L’ugni blanc
Italian in origin, Ugni Blanc is grown in the Mediterranean region, although there are also plantations in America, Australia and South Africa. It produces wine low in alcohol and high in acidity.
Le sauvignon blanc
Commonly grown in France, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc is an international variety par excellence. It produces very aromatic wines with grapefruit notes.