French term for the noblest grape varieties in the world. Their use does not always result in a top wine, but they are often found in such wines, either as single varietals or as blending partners in cuvées. There are no measurable criteria that make it possible to clearly assign them to the "circle of the chosen ones". Even among experts, the same varieties are not named 100% of the time, but there is a relatively high degree of agreement.
An important criterion is the distribution in many countries. This means that the vines have proven themselves in high quality wines under different climatic conditions and winemaking processes and have been highly recognised. The red wine varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir and Syrah (Shiraz), as well as the white wine varieties Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon are mentioned most frequently.
The glossary is a monumental achievement and one of the most important contributions to wine knowledge. Of all the encyclopaedias I use on the subject of wine, it is by far the most important. That was the case ten years ago and it hasn't changed since.
Andreas Essl
Autor, Modena