Merlot vs Carménère

Characteristics Merlot Carménère Hue Medium Ruby to Garnet Medium Ruby to Garnet Color Red Red Aromas Plum, red berries, chocolate Raspberry, peppercorn, green bell pepper, jalapeno Tannins Medium – soft Moderate Acid Medium Medium Alcohol (%) 13-14.5% 13.5-14.5% Body Medium Medium Intensity Medium Medium plus Key Growing Regions Bordeaux, France, Italy, California Chile, Bordeaux Classic […]
Tannat vs Pinot Noir

Comparing Tannat vs Pinot Noir is an intriguing side-by-side comparison. Tannat has more color, tannin, and body than Pinot Noir. Tannat is black-fruited; Pinot Noir has red fruit, higher acid, and a lighter body. TL;DR: If you like the bright, friendly nature of Pinot Noir, you probably won’t care for Tannat. Tannat Basics: A Powerful […]
Tempranillo vs Shiraz

If you’re thinking about the differences between Tempranillo vs Shiraz, you’re probably into savory wines. Shiraz has high tannins, with dark fruit, olive, and pepper. Tempranillo has red fruit and savory notes, like leather and tomato. Both wines are widely available. Comparing Tempranillo vs Shiraz is a must-try side-by-side tasting for newer red wine enthusiasts. […]
Carignan Wine Guide: Sometimes It’s Even Good

Pronunciation: care-ree-NYEHN Carignan is a red wine grape with its roots tracing back to Spain. It serves both as a blending grape in various wine regions and as a single varietal, showcasing its (very) unique character. This grape variety produces a robust, medium-bodied dry red wine with notes of blackberry, cherry, and a touch of […]
Tempranillo vs Cabernet Sauvignon

Tempranillo vs Cabernet Sauvignon is an interesting comparison if tasted separately. These are wines you’ll want to taste side-by-side to tease out the differences. Tempranillo has red fruit and savory notes; Cabernet Sauvignon has black fruit and green notes. Cabernet Sauvignon is higher in alcohol, tannin, and body than most Tempranillos. Comparing Tempranillo vs Cabernet […]
Pinotage vs Merlot: Very Different Red Wines

When it comes to red wines, some are more mainstream, like Merlot, and others take you by surprise, like Pinotage. Pinotage showcases a robust body and distinctive notes of dark berries, coffee, and a hint of smokiness, differing from the softer and fruit-forward nature of Merlot. Merlot is more common and available at all price […]
Merlot vs Pinot Grigio

Characteristics Merlot Pinot Grigio Hue Deep ruby red Straw yellow to copper Color Red White Aromas Plum, red berries, chocolate Citrus, green apple, pear Tannins Soft to moderate Low Acid Low to medium High Alcohol (%) 13-14.5% 12-13.5% Body Medium Light Intensity Moderate Moderate Key Growing Regions Bordeaux, France, California Italy, California, Oregon Classic Pairings […]
Top Picks for Fall Wines: 11 Bottles to Elevate Your Autumn

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, there’s an undeniable yearning for comfort. Steaming tea. Wooly sweaters. Cozy fires. The season leaves you yearning for something to warm your insides. That something is wine. In this fall wine guide, you’ll find a list of widely available fall wines that are perfect for the […]
Sangiovese vs Merlot

What’s the difference between Sangiovese and Merlot? Italy’s Sangiovese boasts a medium body, biting acidity, high tannins, and crunchy cherry and herbal notes. Merlot tends to have a smoother, rounder body, softer, velvety tannins, and showcases warm plum notes. Both wines are commonly found in the price range of $10 to $20 USD. Here’s what […]
Sauvignon Blanc: A Comprehensive Guide

Pronunciation: soh-veen-yawn BLAHNK Sauvignon Blanc is a high-acid white wine that has herbal, citrus, and tropical fruit notes. Today it’s made around the world and famous growing regions include Loire Valley, France, and New Zealand. Pair with seafood, salads, or solo sipper. Here’s what you need to know about Sauvignon Blanc. What Kind of Wine […]