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.
Top varieties
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.
Other varieties
The varieties Grenache Noir (Garnacha Tinta), Cot and Tempranillo are also included. There are also autochthonous varieties that regularly produce top wines in a few countries. Blaufränkisch and Grüner Veltliner can be named for Austria, Chasselas for Switzerland, Cinsaut and Tannat for France, Xinomavro for Greece, Barbera and Sangiovese for Italy, Furmint for Hungary, Pinotage for South Africa and Zinfandel for California.
Characteristics
The positive characteristics of these varieties are generally small, hard-skinned berries and (particularly desirable in the red wine varieties) an immense colour intensity. These varieties also have the potential for high and balanced total extract values(sugar, acids, alcohol, etc.) and a wide range of flavours in the resulting wine. In close connection with this, such top products are often characterised by an extreme shelf life or longevity. The optimum drinking maturity is often only reached after some time or longer bottle ageing (10, 15 and more years).
Further information
For more information on top wines, see also the keywords auctions, wine of the century, comet wine, records, speciality wines, most expensive wines in the world and wine of kings - king of wines.
Pictures: Ursula Brühl, Doris Schneider, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI)
