by Ross Kingsley | Jan 8, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Cabernet Franc, often overshadowed by its more famous offspring Cabernet Sauvignon, is a grape variety with its own distinctive character and a rich history. Known for its aromatic complexity and elegance, Cabernet Franc has earned its place amongst great wine grapes.
Origins and History
Cabernet Franc’s origins can be traced to the 17th century in southwest France, where it is believed to have been cultivated in the Libournais region. It is one of the parent varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, which resulted from a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Historical records suggest that Cardinal Richelieu introduced the grape to the Loire Valley, where it found a second home and thrives to this day.
In Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc is a key component of many celebrated blends, particularly in the Right Bank appellations of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. While often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, it occasionally takes center stage in iconic wines such as Château Cheval Blanc, where it showcases its ability to produce wines of extraordinary finesse and longevity.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Cabernet Franc is prized for its medium body, vibrant acidity, and aromatic complexity. It often exhibits flavors of red and black fruits such as raspberry, cherry, and plum, alongside herbal notes like bell pepper, tobacco, and sometimes a hint of violet. These characteristics make it a versatile grape, capable of producing wines that range from light and easy-drinking to structured and age-worthy.
Geographical Reach
While its spiritual homes remain Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc has spread to wine regions across the globe. In Italy, it is often found in Friuli and Tuscany, contributing to blends and varietal wines alike. In the New World, it has gained popularity in Canada, particularly in Ontario’s Niagara Peninsula, where it thrives in the cool climate. The United States, Argentina, and South Africa are also exploring Cabernet Franc’s potential, producing wines that reflect their unique terroirs.
Famous Wines
Apart from Château Cheval Blanc, the Loire Valley produces exceptional varietal expressions in appellations such as Chinon, Saumur, and Bourgueil. These wines are renowned for their purity, minerality, and ability to age gracefully, making them a favorite among connoisseurs.
Cabernet Franc’s nuanced profile and adaptability ensure its continued presence on the global wine stage. Whether as part of a blend or standing alone, it remains a grape worth knowing and celebrating.
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Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
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by Ross Kingsley | Jan 8, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Sangiovese, one of Italy’s most celebrated grape varieties, is renowned for its versatility and its ability to reflect the nuances of its growing environment. This grape is the star of some of Italy’s most iconic wines. But what makes Sangiovese so special, and where does its story begin?
Origins and History
The origins of Sangiovese trace back thousands of years to central Italy, particularly the Tuscany region. Its name is derived from the Latin “Sanguis Jovis,” meaning “Blood of Jupiter,” a nod to its mythological and cultural significance. Historical records show that Sangiovese was already being cultivated during the Roman Empire, though its reputation as a premium grape didn’t develop until much later. By the Renaissance, Sangiovese had established itself as a staple of Italian viticulture, praised for its adaptability to diverse soils and climates.
Famous Wines
Sangiovese is most famously associated with Tuscany, where it forms the backbone of legendary wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Chianti, in particular, showcases the grape’s bright acidity, red fruit flavors, and earthy undertones. Brunello di Montalcino, crafted from 100% Sangiovese Grosso (a clone of Sangiovese), offers a richer, more age-worthy expression, with flavors of dark cherry, leather, and spice. Meanwhile, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano strikes a balance between elegance and structure, making it another cherished expression of Sangiovese.
Beyond these Tuscan stars, Sangiovese also plays a significant role in modern Super Tuscan wines, often blended with international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to create bold, innovative styles. Outside of Italy, Sangiovese has found a home in places like California, Argentina, and Australia, though it rarely achieves the same depth and complexity as in its homeland.
Geographical Reach
While Tuscany remains its spiritual and qualitative heart, Sangiovese is planted across much of Italy, from Umbria to Emilia-Romagna and even southern regions like Campania. Globally, its reach is expanding, as winemakers in New World regions experiment with its potential. Despite these efforts, the grape’s tendency to express terroir means that Italian Sangiovese continues to set the benchmark.
Conclusion
Sangiovese is much more than a grape; it’s a cultural icon that tells the story of Italian winemaking. Whether enjoyed in a rustic Chianti or a complex Brunello, this grape embodies a tradition that bridges the past and present of viticulture.
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Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
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by Ross Kingsley | Jan 8, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Sometimes called the “King of Grapes for the Kings of Wine”, and responsible for some of Italy’s most iconic and age-worthy wines.
Origins and History
The Nebbiolo grape’s name is believed to derive from the Italian word nebbia, meaning fog, a nod to the misty harvest season in its native Piedmont region of northwest Italy. References to Nebbiolo date back as early as the 13th century, making it one of the oldest grape varieties still cultivated today.
Nebbiolo thrived in Piedmont’s unique terroir, particularly in the Langhe hills, where the combination of calcareous clay soils and a continental climate proved ideal for its growth. Over centuries, the grape became closely associated with two of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions: Barolo and Barbaresco. Known for their power, structure, and aromatic complexity, these wines have cemented Nebbiolo’s reputation as a noble grape.
Famous Wines Made from Nebbiolo
Nebbiolo’s most notable expressions come from Barolo and Barbaresco, both DOCG appellations in Piedmont. Often referred to as the “King of Wines” and “Queen of Wines,” respectively, Barolo is celebrated for its bold tannins and longevity, while Barbaresco offers a more approachable elegance in its youth.
Other Piedmontese appellations like Roero, Gattinara, and Nebbiolo d’Alba also showcase the grape’s versatility. Outside Italy, Nebbiolo has inspired winemakers in other parts of the world, including California, Australia, and Argentina, though its expression rarely rivals that of its Italian homeland.
Geographical Reach
While Nebbiolo remains primarily rooted in Piedmont, its cultivation has expanded modestly across the globe. It thrives in regions with similar climatic and soil conditions, including parts of the United States, particularly in California’s Central Coast and the Pacific Northwest. In Argentina, the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza have shown promise in producing compelling Nebbiolo-based wines.
However, despite its global spread, Nebbiolo’s finicky nature—sensitivity to climate and soil—makes it a challenging grape to grow outside Piedmont. As a result, only a handful of non-Italian regions have succeeded in producing wines that truly reflect Nebbiolo’s potential.
Conclusion
Nebbiolo’s deep connection to Piedmont and its ability to craft wines of extraordinary complexity and longevity make it a favorite among connoisseurs. To appreciate Nebbiolo is to appreciate the rich tapestry of winemaking history and the unique terroirs that define it.
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>>> Reprinting, reposting & sharing allowed, in exchange for a backlink and credits <<<
Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
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by Ross Kingsley | Jan 7, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Gewürztraminer stands out for its bold personality and unique flavor profile. It is a grape variety with a pink to red skin color, which makes it a “white wine grape”, as opposed to the blue to black-skinned grape varieties. Let’s explore the origins, history, and global influence of this distinctive grape.
Origins and History
Gewürztraminer originates from the Alsace region of France, though its roots can be traced further back to Tramin, a village in South Tyrol, Italy. The grape’s name reflects this heritage: “Gewürz” means “spice” or “aromatic” in German, and “Traminer” refers to its ancestral home. This spicy lineage hints at the bold and exotic characteristics that Gewürztraminer is known for.
The varietal likely evolved as a mutation of the Savagnin grape, an ancient cultivar found across Europe. Over centuries, it gained prominence in Alsace, where the cool climate and unique terroir amplify its rich aromatic qualities. Gewürztraminer thrives in limestone-rich soils and cooler regions, which allow its natural sugars and acidity to develop harmoniously.
Famous Wines Featuring Gewürztraminer
Gewürztraminer is best known for producing intensely aromatic wines with floral and tropical fruit notes, such as lychee, rose petals, and passionfruit. These wines are often slightly sweet but can range from bone dry to lusciously sweet dessert styles, such as those made using late-harvest or botrytized grapes.
Alsace remains the spiritual home of Gewürztraminer, where it is crafted into some of the world’s most expressive white wines. The varietal is also a key player in Germany’s wine landscape and appears in notable New World regions, including California, New Zealand, and Australia. In Canada, it contributes to outstanding ice wines, where the grape’s natural sweetness and bold flavors are accentuated.
Global Reach
Although Alsace leads in Gewürztraminer production, its cultivation extends across Europe and beyond. Germany, Italy, and Austria grow it extensively, while New World wine regions increasingly embrace its potential. The grape’s versatility makes it a winemaker’s delight, capable of expressing both terroir and the artistry of its maker.
Whether enjoyed as a dry wine alongside spicy Asian cuisine or as a dessert wine with fruit tarts, Gewürztraminer continues to charm wine lovers worldwide with its complexity and aromatic allure. Its story, deeply rooted in history yet constantly evolving, is a testament to the enduring magic of the grape.
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© CHURRASCO PHUKET STEAKHOUSE / ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
>>> Reprinting, reposting & sharing allowed, in exchange for a backlink and credits <<<
Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
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by Ross Kingsley | Jan 7, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Tempranillo, a name derived from the Spanish word “temprano,” meaning “early,” aptly describes this grape’s tendency to ripen earlier than most varieties. As the backbone of many iconic wines, Tempranillo boasts a rich history, a broad geographical reach, and an enduring legacy in the world of viticulture.
Origins and History
Tempranillo traces its roots to the Iberian Peninsula, with evidence suggesting its cultivation dates back over 2,000 years. Often referred to as Spain’s noble grape, it plays a central role in the country’s winemaking traditions. The grape is most famously associated with the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions, where it has thrived in the varied climates and soils. Over the centuries, Tempranillo has adapted to its environment, evolving into a versatile and resilient variety.
The spread of Tempranillo beyond Spain began in earnest in the 20th century, thanks to the global appreciation for Spanish wines. Portuguese winemakers also embraced the grape, where it is known as Tinta Roriz or Aragonez, and it contributes to the renowned blends of Port and dry red wines of the Alentejo region.
Famous Wines Using Tempranillo
Tempranillo is best known for its role in producing the celebrated red wines of Rioja and Ribera del Duero. In Rioja, it forms the foundation of blends that often include Garnacha (Grenache), Graciano, and Mazuelo. These wines are celebrated for their balance of red fruit flavors, earthy undertones, and aging potential, with oak aging imparting notes of vanilla, leather, and tobacco.
In Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo—locally called Tinto Fino or Tinta del País—takes center stage, yielding powerful, full-bodied wines with dark fruit profiles and firm tannins. Beyond Spain, Tempranillo has found a home in regions like California, Argentina, and Australia, where winemakers experiment with single varietal expressions and innovative blends.
Geographical Reach
While Spain remains Tempranillo’s heartland, its cultivation has expanded worldwide. In Portugal, it contributes to both Port and table wines. In the New World, countries like the United States, Argentina, and Australia have adopted the grape, attracted by its adaptability and ability to produce high-quality wines. These regions often showcase Tempranillo in a modern, fruit-forward style, distinct from the traditional expressions of Spain.
A Grape of Tradition and Innovation
Tempranillo’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility. Whether crafted into age-worthy classics or fresh, modern styles, this grape continues to captivate wine lovers around the globe. Exploring Tempranillo is a journey through history, geography, and innovation—a testament to its remarkable place in the world of wine.
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Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
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by Ross Kingsley | Jan 7, 2025 | DECODING GRAPES: FROM VINES TO VINTAGE
Grenache, one of the world’s most widely planted grape varieties, holds a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts. Known for its ability to thrive in diverse climates and produce wines of character, Grenache is a cornerstone of winemaking traditions across the globe. Here, we explore its origins, history, the famous wines it shapes, and its geographical reach.
Origins and History
Grenache, also known as Garnacha in Spain, likely originated in the Aragon region of northern Spain during the Middle Ages. From there, it spread across the Mediterranean, taking root in southern France, Italy, and beyond. By the 17th century, Grenache had become a dominant variety in regions such as Catalonia, Languedoc, and Sardinia.
Its resilience to wind, drought, and heat made it an ideal candidate for challenging terrains, particularly in southern Europe. Over time, Grenache evolved into various clones and sub-varieties, including Grenache Noir (red), Grenache Blanc (white), and Grenache Gris (pinkish-grey).
Famous Wines Featuring Grenache
Grenache is often celebrated for its role in producing some of the world’s most iconic wines. In France, it is a principal component of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a revered blend from the Rhône Valley. Its hallmark characteristics—ripe red fruit flavors, spice, and a velvety texture—shine brightly in these wines.
In Spain, Garnacha plays a starring role in the robust reds of Priorat and the fresh, fruit-forward styles of Campo de Borja and Navarra. It’s also a key player in Rioja blends, often alongside Tempranillo. Meanwhile, in Sardinia, Grenache takes on the name Cannonau, producing full-bodied, deeply aromatic wines.
Beyond reds, Grenache Blanc contributes to richly textured white wines in regions like Roussillon, while Grenache Gris lends complexity to rosés, particularly in Provence.
Geographical Reach
Grenache’s adaptability has seen it flourish in diverse wine regions across the globe. Outside Europe, it thrives in Australia’s Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, where old vines produce intense, fruit-driven wines. In the United States, particularly California, Grenache finds a home in Paso Robles and Santa Barbara, often forming the backbone of bold, New World blends.
As climate change reshapes viticulture, Grenache’s drought resistance and ability to maintain acidity in warm conditions ensure its continued relevance. From its Mediterranean heartlands to the vineyards of the New World, Grenache remains a grape worth knowing and celebrating, offering a world of flavors to explore in every glass.
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© CHURRASCO PHUKET STEAKHOUSE / ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
>>> Reprinting, reposting & sharing allowed, in exchange for a backlink and credits <<<
Churrasco Phuket Steakhouse serves affordable Wagyu and Black Angus steaks and burgers. We are open daily from 12noon to 11pm at Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong / Phuket.
We are family-friendly and offer free parking and Wi-Fi for guests. See our menus, reserve your table, find our location, and check all reviews here:
https://ChurrascoPhuket.com/
#Churrascophuket #jungceylon #phuketsteakhouse #affordablewagyu #wagyu
