Exploring the Vineyard: A Comprehensive Guide to the Different Types of Wine

At Bonterra Organic Estates, our commitment to organic practices is a way of life. With a deep-rooted dedication to nurturing the land and crafting exceptional wines, Bonterra stands as a beacon of sustainability in the wine industry.

Organic winemaking isn’t just about what goes into the bottle—it’s a holistic approach that embraces the harmony between vine, soil, and environment. By ditching synthetic pesticides and chemicals, organic vineyards like Bonterra foster biodiversity, capture carbon, and promote soil health. Understanding these advantages can help you truly reap the benefits of organic wine, enhancing both your wellness and enjoyment.

But Bonterra goes beyond conventional organic winemaking techniques. With Regenerative Organic certification, Climate Neutral certification, and TRUE Zero Waste efforts, we are leading the charge toward a more sustainable future for winemaking. When you raise a glass of Bonterra’s fine wine, you’re not just savoring a moment—you’re supporting a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Let’s go on a journey through the many different types of wine offered by Bonterra Organic Wineries.

White Wines: Crisp and Refreshing

In the world of white wines, freshness is key. From the oak and vanilla notes of Chardonnay to the effervescent brilliance of Sauvignon Blanc, each varietal offers a unique expression of terroir and craftsmanship. At Bonterra, organic viticulture ensures that every bottle bursts with crisp, clean flavors that dance on the tongue.

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris (very similar to Pinot Grigio) is made from the Pinot Gris grape, derived from the Pinot Noir grape; it is an early ripening grape, resulting in a naturally low-acid wine. Pinot Gris tends to be a light white wine that is best consumed when it is still quite young. The flavors you expect from a Pinot Gris are citrus, apple, peach, and tropical fruits, though these vary depending on if the grapes were grown in a cool or warmer climate.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is made from, appropriately enough, the Sauvignon Blanc grape. It is quite famous for growing in New Zealand, but it also thrives in California and other wine regions. Sauvignon Blanc can be quite varied in flavor, ranging from fruit-forward with vibrant citrus notes to a more vegetal vibe that might include fresh-cut grass or green bell pepper. Sauvignon Blanc often has a very crisp effervescence to it, owing to its high acidity. It is typically aged in stainless steel, though winemakers are finding that some oak barrels can deepen the flavors in delightful ways.

Chardonnay

The powerhouse of the white wine set, Chardonnay is the most consumed white wine in the world. And for good reason! Chardonnay is incredibly versatile; it can be aged in stainless steel for a crisper result, or aged in an oak barrel to enhance its natural flavors of vanilla, butter, and lemon. The Chardonnay grape is hardy and adaptable and grows all over the world, and Chardonnay itself is ideal by itself or as a blending wine. There is a Bonterra Chardonnay for every palate! If you’re curious about the distinct flavors and production methods that define this varietal, you’ll find our article on what Chardonnay tastes like particularly insightful.

With a focus on sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention winemaking techniques, Bonterra’s white wines are a testament to the art of balance. Whether you’re pairing with seafood on a sunny afternoon or savoring a quiet moment at home, Bonterra’s white wines are sure to refresh and invigorate. 

Rosé: Versatile and Inviting

As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, there’s nothing quite like the blush hue of a perfectly chilled glass of Rosé. With its versatility and approachability, Rosé has captured the hearts of wine lovers around the world. 

What is Rosé wine? Rosé can be made from any type of red wine grape, and the signature pink hue – which can range from light blush to deep salmon – is typically accomplished through brief contact with the grape skin. The most common types of grapes used for Rosé are Grenache and Pinot Noir. It can be enjoyed as a still wine or sparkling wine, and ranges from sweet to dry, catering to every taste. Its hallmark flavors are strawberry, citrus, melon, cherry and other red fruits, and florals like violet and rose.

Crafted with care and precision, Bonterra’s Rosé is a reflection of the vibrant terroir of California’s wine regions. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or gathering with friends, Bonterra’s Rosé is the perfect companion for any occasion.

Red Wines: Depth and Complexity

From the bold richness of Cabernet Sauvignon to the velvety smoothness of Merlot, red wines offer a tapestry of flavors and textures that captivate the palate.

Pinot Noir

The Pinot Noir grape has been around for a long time, which is somewhat surprising given how finicky it can be! Pinot Noir has a thin skin and wants to grow in a cool climate with ideal weather conditions. But the hard work of growing Pinot Noir pays off in the bottle. A good Pinot will be light to medium bodied, subtle and delicate with hints of fresh flowers and forest floor, red berries, and a hint of spice like clove and vanilla.  Pinot Noir is often blended with different wines but also shines on its own. And, did you know it’s the primary grape used to make sparkling wine around the world? 

Zinfandel

Zinfandel thrives in the heat and is a hardy, robust grape to grow. It is bold in the field and in the bottle: strong, dark fruits like blackberry, plum, and ripe strawberry shine through. It’s commonly smoky, with notes of tobacco and spice woven throughout. This is also the grape used to make White Zinfandel – did you know any red grape variety can be used to make white wine? All color in wine comes from contact with grape skin, so by limiting or eliminating skin contact during and after the press, a winemaker can make a red grape into white wine.

Merlot

You can expect a good bottle of Merlot to be a dry, medium to a full bodied white wine with medium acidity, medium alcohol, and medium tannins. But don’t get it twisted – Merlot isn’t “mid” at all! It’s a soft and easy-drinking wine with flavors of cherry, plum, and raspberry, and can even have a chocolatey element as well. The Merlot grape is often grown to be blended with different wines – it’s perfect for that – but it’s also quite good on its own.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is the reigning royal of the wine world: it is the #1 most consumed wine, by far. And for good reason! It grows well in a variety of places, and through winemaking can be expressed in countless ways. It’s a rich wine with high tannins, creating a bold flavor sensation of black fruits, tobacco, forest floor, and vanilla. 

Bonterra’s various types of red wines have a depth and complexity that can only come from a thriving ecosystem. Each sip tells a story of sun-kissed vines, nutrient-rich soil, and meticulous craftsmanship. Whether you’re a fan of robust reds or elegant blends, Bonterra has a red wine to delight every discerning palate. 

Join our Journey Toward a Better Planet

From the sun-drenched vineyards of California to the tables of wine lovers around the world, Bonterra is proud to be a guiding force in the movement toward a more regenerative world.

Are you ready to join us? Visit the Bonterra website to learn more about our commitment to organic practices and browse our selection of high-quality, environmentally friendly fine wines. Whenever you buy wine online from us, you’re not just indulging in a moment of pleasure—you’re supporting a vision of a better, more sustainable future for all. Cheers to that!