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Which are the most widely planted grape varieties in the world?

22/02/2023 Winemaking

With more than 10,000 registered grape varieties around the world, including table grapes and raisins, there is what can only be described as a giant tapestry of varieties. However, according to the latest report from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) on the most widely planted grape varieties in the world, 13 varieties make up one third of the total vineyard area. The effect of globalisation and the expansion of mainly French grapes is certainly noticeable.

The 13 most widespread varieties on the planet

1- Kyoho

With an area of 365,000 hectares, Kyoho is the leading variety by area. A table grape originating in Japan, whose name means “giant mountain grapes” to honour its larger-than-average, fleshy, high-volume berry.

2- Cabernet Sauvignon

Born in Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon is famous all over the world. With 341,000 ha. spread across the planet, this is the most widely planted variety used for winemaking. The secret of its success lies in its tannins that promise power, simplicity and a wonderful aging potential.

3- Sultana

In third place, with 273,000 ha, this is another variety not used for winemaking. The Sultana is a white grape that has no seeds and is commonly used to make raisins.

4- Merlot

Like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot is responsible for some of the world’s most sublime blends. Growing in both the old and the new world, it covers an area of 266,000 hectares and its opulent, delicate and elegant wines win people over wherever they go.

5- Tempranillo

The protagonist of full-bodied red wines in Spain, Tempranillo occupies a growing area of 231,000 ha. This grape’s name comes from the fact that its harvest is earlier than the other varieties and wines made with it are characterised by being balanced, elegant and well-structured.

6- Airén

When it comes to white varieties for winemaking, the star is Airén, a grape originating in Castilla-La Mancha (Spain) that occupies 218,000 hectares and is mainly used for brandy production. Although until recently it has been considered low quality, new vignerons are taking charge of giving it the reputation it deserves.

7- Chardonnay

If there is one white variety that wins people over, it has to be Chardonnay. Originally from Burgundy (France) and growing over 210,000 ha, this variety is so successful partly due to its versatility. It changes completely depending on the region, climate and terroir. That said, it always makes you fall in love.

8- Syrah

As the main grape of the Northern Rhône, after a few years of intensive planting, Syrah has become the eighth most cultivated grape with a total of 190,000 ha. Used for both single and multi-variety wines, its wines are characterised by being silky, dense and powerful.

9- Red Globe

Another successful table grape is the Red Globe. Highly productive and vigorous, it takes up no less than 159,000 hectares of planted vineyards, mainly in the Mediterranean arc.

10- Garnacha Tinta

In tenth position, Garnacha Tinta has nothing to envy. With 163,000 ha. of vineyards spread throughout the world, it is one of the varieties with the strongest impact. A grape characterised mainly by its freshness and fruity expression. Something that is very popular with today’s consumers.

11- Sauvignon Blanc

Thanks mainly to the rise of the Loire, Sauvignon Blanc has recently become fashionable. A white grape that takes up 123,000 ha. of land and is characterised mainly by a fresh, typically vegetal profile. Pure spring in a glass.

12- Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is one of the best loved varieties in the world. Burgundy’s leading red grape, it grows over 112,000 ha. across the world and its wines are easily recognisable for their finesse, delicacy and elegance.

13- Trebbiano Toscano

Finally, with 111,000 ha, the Trebbiano Toscano grape is very characteristic of Italy. A grape from the eastern Mediterranean that makes young, aromatic and fresh wines. Likewise in France, where it is known as Ugni Blanc, it is also very common in the production of cognac and armagnac.

Of these 13 grapes that we have shown you, we are sure that more than one of them will be used to make your favourite wines. Whether single-variety or multi-variety, what is clear is that variety is the spice of life. Enjoy!

Nuria

Nuria Escofet

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