With more than a thousand varieties of grapes used to make wine, it’s probably no surprise there are so many different types – at least 31 popular varietals – of red wine.
Most popular types of single-varietal red wine
Cabernet and Merlot are two of the most well-known and widely produced red wine varietals. They are also two of the most popular red wine grapes used around the world.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Generally big, full-bodied and tannic, Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust red wine with strong character. It can age for years.
Merlot
Merlot is a medium-bodied wine with fruitiness and softer tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pinot Noir
Typically medium to light-bodied with a soft tannic structure, Pinot Noir is a dry red wine with berry overtones.
Syrah (Shiraz)
Jammy, fruity, and spicy, Syrah is a grape that can take on different characteristics depending on terroir and growing conditions.