To say that wine is just an alcoholic fruit drink doesn’t do it justice. While it may be true, it is also much more than that, as the process of making this drink takes years to perfect. Every bottle of wine has both science and history, and it is something that’s celebrated all over the world every year on May 25, which is also known as National Wine Day. Even though wine has been around for centuries, there are still a lot of things we don’t know about this drink. 

There are a lot of things that you may not know about wine and winemaking, such as the fact that France, Spain, Italy, and California are the largest producers of wine in the world. From red wines to white wines to rosé, there are many other interesting things to know about wines, especially the different grape varieties that are used to make them. Here are other facts about wine and different types of wine available on Boozy that you can try to celebrate this special day for wine drinkers:

1. Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon

Photo from @carnivorwine

(FACT: Cabernet Sauvignon is the world’s most famous red wine grape)

There are around 1,300 grape varieties that are used to make wine, but some varieties are more popular than others. Cabernet Sauvignon, for instance, is the grape that is used to make some of the world’s most famous red wines and was first cultivated in Southwestern France during the 17th century. This grape was also used in making Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon, which is layered with hints of rich blackberry, luscious caramel, and smooth toasted oak, and is best paired with red meat. 

2. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc

(FACT: Sauvignon Blanc is the most well-known grape varietal in New Zealand)

While Cabernet Sauvignon is used to make red wines, Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular white wine varieties in the world and is known for its crispness due to its high acidity and dryness - or low levels of residual sugar. New Zealand’s wine industry centers on Sauvignon Blanc, but it was actually first cultivated in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux wine-growing regions in France. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc is widely considered to be among the benchmarks for New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and is typical of the grape’s expression in the Marlborough Valley growing region. Those who enjoy white wines will appreciate its prominent, herbal aromas and fruity notes, which include sharp citrus, stone fruits, and lemongrass. 

3. Bread and Butter Pinot Noir 2017

Photo from @breadandbutterwines

(FACT: Pinot Noir is used to make light-bodied red wines and originated in Burgundy, France)

The Pinot Noir is a grape variety used to make light-bodied red wines. It originated in France’s Burgundy region and is known for its red fruit, flower, and spice aromas accentuated by a long, smooth finish. Bread and Butter Pinot Noir 2017 from California is a good New World example of this red wine, as it adds aromas of fresh strawberry and green melon along with hints of hibiscus and rose petal. Aside from having a rich texture, a balanced acidity, and a refreshing and supple finish, Bread and Butter Pinot Noir is best paired with fresh salads, roasted chicken, and fish tacos. 

4. Montrouge Merlot

(FACT: The Merlot is usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and originated in Bordeaux, France)

The Merlot shares some similarities with the Cabernet Sauvignon, and is sometimes even mistaken for and is usually blended with it. But unlike the Cabernet Sauvignon, the Merlot, which likely originated in Bordeaux, France, is known for its black cherry flavors, suppler tannins, and chocolatey finish. The Montrouge Merlot stands out for its garnet red color and aromas of fruits such as cherries and blackberries. It is a well-balanced wine that is supple, aromatic, and has raspberry notes on the finish, and is a perfect example of this particular grape variety. 

5. Jacob’s Creek Riesling

(FACT: Riesling produces white wines and is primarily grown in Germany and France)

Another important grape variety is the Riesling, which is a white grape that is primarily grown in Germany and France and produces white wines ranging from bone-dry to sweet. The Jacob’s Creek Riesling is an example of a white wine made from this grape. It has the aroma of fresh lemon and line as well as blossom and a delicate taste with minerals, citrus, and tangy acidity. This white wine can be paired with a variety of foods such as kingfish ceviche, grilled garfish, or even spicy Asian cuisine. 

6. Bread and Butter Chardonnay 2017

Photo from @breadandbutterwines

(FACT: The word Chardonnay originated from the phrase “place of thistles” or “thistle covered place”)

Among the white grape varieties, there is none more popular than Chardonnay, which is also made in a variety of styles from Blanc de Blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Chardonnay, which originated in a small village in France, comes from the phrase “place of thistles” or “thistle covered place.” The Bread and Butter Chardonnay 2017 is an example of a white wine made from this grape variety. With creamy notes, bright acidity on the palate, and a long finish, it should be on the list of white wines that you should try. 

7. Terrazas Altos Del Plata Malbec

Photo from @terrazas_andes

(FACT: Malbec is the most important grape variety in Argentina and makes up three-quarters of its vineyards)

From being a minor Grape in Southwest France, Malbec is now known for being the most important grape variety in Argentina, where it makes up three-quarters of its vineyards. The Malbec loves the sun and elevation, making the conditions in the country ideal for its growth. The Terrazas Altos Del Plata Malbec is an example of this grape variety, as it is a vibrant and well-balanced wine that has hints of raspberries, blackberries, and prunes and can be paired with grilled meats. 

8. Tedeschi Pinot Grigio 2017

(FACT: The Pinot Grigio is a mutation of the Pinot Noir and is usually found in Northern Italy, USA, and France.)

The Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris may not be as well known as the other grape varieties, but it is also known for producing zesty white wines and rosé. It is considered as a mutation of the Pinot Noir and can be usually found in Northern Italy, Oregon, the USA, and Alsace, France. The Tedeschi Pinot Grigio 2017 is a white wine made from this grape variety and has a fruity, intense, and complex aroma with white fruit accents and a round, lively, and savory finish. 

9. R de Roubine

(FACT: Wine has no fat and cholesterol content)

It is a fact that wine has no fat or cholesterol, making it not just an enjoyable drink, but also a healthy one. When enjoying a glass of wine on this special day, you might want to consider the R de Roubine, a white wine that was made from the Côtes De Provence region in France. Its aromatic notes consist of ripe fruits with hints of peach and herbs while having a fruity, light, and delicate taste. This wine is versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes, such as white meats, lamb, pork chops, seafood, and pasta.

10. EDC Poker Tempranillo

(FACT: The Tempranillo is a black grape variety used to make full-bodied red wines in Spain.)

If the Malbec is the most well-known grape variety in Argentina, then the same could be said of Tempranillo in Spain. Its name is derived from the Spanish word Temprano, which means “early,” referring to the fact that it ripens weeks earlier than other Spanish red grapes. This black grape variety is used to make full-bodied red wines such as the EDC Poker Tempranillo. This red wine has aromas of ripe red berry, caramel, and oakwood and is strong and tasty on the mouth and can be paired with vegetables, cheeses, and meats.