Wines Around The World
Some countries are just synonymous with wine — and for good reason. The soil, the underlying bedrock, slope of the land, amount of sun and rain all impact the grapes, giving them the unique taste that make up distinctive wines. Here’s a look at some of the world’s best wine regions.
France
It’s no surprise that France is one of the biggest wine producers in the world. It’s the birthplace of many commonly used grape varieties — chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, syrah and sauvignon blanc — as well as many winemaking practices. France has 10 major wine growing regions responsible for some of the world’s best reds and whites. And on a warm summer day, it’s hard to beat a chilled glass of Cotes de Provence rosé.
Spain
This country is the world’s third largest producer of wine (after France and Italy) and boasts more than 400 native varieties of grapes. Spain’s sunny climate makes for lovely dark reds, such as Tempranillo and Gran Reserva; but Spain is also famous for its dry rosés. If you’re in the mood for a sparkling treat, Spain’s delicious Cava is hard to beat. The Spanish have been making Cava since the 1800s, using the same method as their French counterparts in Champagne.
Italy
It’s hard to not think of wine when you think of Italy — and for good reason — since Italians have been making wine since the 2nd century BC. With more than 350 varieties of grapes, Italy produces a huge variety of reds and whites, including Pinot Grigio, Fiano, Valpolicella and Sangiovese. But perhaps one of the most recognizably Italian wines is Chianti, a real palate pleaser, especially with Parmesan cheese.
Chile
This country’s pairing of climate and geography are the perfect combination for good wine. Perhaps its most famous grape, the Carmenere, is the deepest, darkest purple of all red wine grapes and makes for smooth, well-rounded wines with hints of both blackberries and pepper. Carmeneres go beautifully with any red meat, curry or spicy Mexican-style foods.
USA
The Napa Valley is home to some of the world’s top — and most expensive — wines. No wonder! The area’s Mediterranean climate, geography, and geology are ideal for winemaking. Americans have been making wine in Napa since the 1860s, but it wasn’t until 1976, when Napa wines beat out French wines in a blind tasting contest, that the area’s reputation as a top wine producer was sealed. Napa Valley’s 450 varieties of grapes produce incredible wines, like a buttery Napa Chardonnay — hard to beat.
Which global wine region would you love to visit? Let us know in the comments below!
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