Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris: Pinot Grigio is an important grape throughout northeastern Italy. It is also grown in Germany where it is called "Rulander." Pinot Gris (the French spelling of the same grape) is grown in the Alsace region of France. This grape is also becoming more and more popular in Oregon and in California.

Syrah (Shiraz): Called Syrah in the old world (France) and Shiraz in the new (United States and Australia), this grape makes a full-bodied, slightly spicy wine. In France, Syrah is produced in the Rhone Valley in Southeastern France. It is the principal grape in Hermitage, Cotes du Rhone, and Cote Rotie wines.

Merlot: Often used as a blending grape, Merlot has become very popular, particularly in the United States. Much of the Merlot available comes from California and is labeled as such. One great exception: the right-bank of the Gironde river in the Bordeaux region of France is planted predominately with Merlot grapes. Some of the world's best Merlots, such as Chateau Petrus, come from this area.

Cabernet Sauvignon: The "king" of red wines, Cabernet is grown all over the world. In France, Cabernet grapes are grown in the Bordeaux (left bank) region. Here, they provide the base for some of the world's best wines (Chateau Margaux, Chateau Lafitte, to name just two).

Zinfandel: This dark, jammy, spicy wine is made from one of the oldest grapes grown in California. Although originally from the Dalmatian Coast of Yugoslavia, Zinfandel has found a perfect home in the cool coastal regions of California.

Sangiovese: This grape makes the full-bodied, lush red wines commonly associated with Italian wines. Grown primarily in Italy's Tuscany region, it is the principal grape in Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino wines (both place names).

France: the primary wine growing regions in France are Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, the Loire Valley, and the Rhone Valley. Under French law, only wine made in a particular region may be labeled as such. For example, only wines made in the province of Champagne can be called Champagne (everything else is sparkling wine). Certain grape varietals are particularly suited to specific areas.