Sparkling wines have presence of carbon dioxide giving it a little fizz. Usually either white or rosé, the sparkling wine's sweetness can range from very dry brut styles to sweeter doux varieties. The most well known sparkling wine is Champagne from Champagne, France.

Common Varieties
Champagne
Prosecco
Lambrusco

Sweet wine is wine that has residual sugar. This should not be mistaken with dry fruity wines with a perceived sweetness. There are many types of sweet wines but the most popular would be fortified wines (i.e. Port, Sherry), Ice Wine (produced in Germany and Canada), Botritys or noble rot, and late harvest.

Common Varieties
Moscato
Port
Vin de Constance
Sherry
Madeira

This is usually a light-bodied white wine that is dry, refreshing, and with a presence of mineral notes.

Common Varieties
Riesling
Viura
Sauvignon Blanc
Gruner Veltliner
Pinot Grigio

This is a dry white wine that is creamy with notes of baking spices from the oak aging. The alcohol content may be a bit higher and is aromatic.

Common Varieties
Rhone blend
Chardonnay

Rosé can be made in a multitude of styles from sweet, dry, and sparkling. It can also be made by different varieties of grapes from Grenache to Zinfandel. Perfect as an aperitif or as a Sunday brunch companion.

Common Varieties
Grenache
Tempranillo
Sangiovese

Light reds are elegant and smooth with light tannins. Red Burgundy, which is made from Pinot Noir, is one of the best examples of light red wines.

Common Varieties
Pinot Noir
Gamay
Sangiovese

These are medium-bodied red wines that are best when paired with food. These wines may be very complex but still do not overpower the tastes and flavours of food.

Common Varieties
Merlot
Barbera
Grenache
Rhone Blend
Tempranillo

These wines may have a consistency similar to that of whole milk accompanied by tannins. These are either best aged or paired with food. Juicy and succulent fruit flavours are also to be expected.

Common Varieties
Malbec
Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon
Petit Verdot