Whether you’re new to wine or simply want to expand your palate, there are a handful of classic wines that every wine lover should know. These ten essentials cover the main wine styles. Red, white, rosé, sparkling and dessert. They also give you a perfect foundation to understand what you enjoy.
From bold Cabernet to refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, consider this your beginner-friendly guide to the world’s most iconic wines.
THE TOP 10 WINES EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Flavour: Bold, dark fruit, blackcurrant, cedar
Body: Full
Pairs with: Steak, burgers, roasted veggies, hard cheeses
Why it matters: Cabernet is one of the world’s most planted grapes. Rich, intense and the queen of red wines. Perfect for cozy nights and winter dinners.
2. Pinot Noir
Flavour: Cherry, raspberry, subtle earthiness
Body: Light to medium
Pairs with: Chicken, mushroom dishes, salmon, holiday meals
Why it matters: Elegant, silky and versatile. Pinot Noir works with almonds anything and is a great „red wine for white wine drinkers.
3. Merlot
Flavour: Plum, chocolate, soft tannins
Body: Medium
Pairs with: Pasta, pizza, roasted meats
Why it matters: Smooth, approachable and easy to love. Merlot is a perfect everyday red for beginners.
4. Chardonnay
Flavour: Apple, citrus, vanilla (if oaked)
Body: Medium to full
Pairs with: Chicken, creamy sauces, seafood
Why it matters: Chardonnay changes dramatically depending on the style. Buttery and rich or crisp and mineral. A must-know white wine.
5. Sauvignon Blanc
Flavour: Lime, passionfruit, fresh herbs
Body: Light
Pairs with: Salads, fish, goat cheese
Why it matters: Bright, refreshing and zesty. This wine is perfect for spring and summer sipping.
6. Riesling
Flavour: Peach, floral notes, citrus
Sweetness: Dry – Sweet
Pairs with: Spicy food, Asian dishes, light desserts
Why it matters: One of the most misunderstood wines! Riesling can be dry or sweet. Always aromatic and beautifully balanced.
7. Rosé
Flavour: Strawberry, watermelon, citrus
Body: Light
Paris with: Summer dishes, salads, charcuterie
Why it matters: Crisp, refreshing and stylish. Rosé is more than a summer drink. It’s incredible food-friendly.
8. Prosecco
Flavour: Pear, apple, light bubbles
Style: Sparkling
Pairs with: Oysters, popcorn, fried foods, celebrations
Why it matters: The world’s most famous sparkling wine. Elegant, complex and always festive.
10. Port Wine
Flavour: Dark fruit, caramel, spice
Style: Fortified dessert wine
Pairs with: Chocolate, cheese boards, holiday desserts
Why it matters: Rich, sweet and warming. A cozy, winter-friendly dessert wine everyone should try at least once.
These ten wines create the perfect foundation for anyone wanting to explore the world of wine. Whether you love bold reds, crisp whites or sparkling celebrations, each of these wines brings something unique to the table.
Start with a few you haven’t tried yet, pair them with your favourite meals and enjoy discovering your personal favourites.