Noble Grapes
Definition - What does Noble Grapes mean?
In the historical context of rating wines, Noble Grapes were the grape varietals that were used to make highly regarded quality wines. These grapes became well known both for the wines they produced and for adapting to the growing conditions of the winemaking regions they were planted in, primarily in France. The Red Noble Grapes are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. White Noble Grapes are Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
WineFrog explains Noble Grapes
While the historical Noble Grape varieties are still popular and associated with highly regarded quality wines, they aren’t the only grapes that make great or "noble" wines. When the Noble Grapes were identified, there were fewer hybrid grapes and fewer techniques in viticulture and vineyard management used to ensure a good harvest. Additionally, the Noble Grapes were associated with French growing regions and French wines at a time before wine regions spread globally. While the Noble Grapes are still popular for the exceptional wines they produce, they are not all grown in France and there are more varieties that have become equally regarded and as popular to drink as the classic Noble Grapes; Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
