Ahhh, the “Big Eight.” When it comes to wine, the “Big Eight” refers to the world’s eight most popular and influential wine varieties on the market.
The goal of this tasting is to allow guests to systematically work their way through these beloved varietals and experience their nuances for themselves. Often, people will think a "white wine" is a white wine and a “red” is simply a red wine, not much to it and certainly the taste differences must be minimal after you get over the color choice. This tasting will offer new appreciatons for both white wines and red wine varietals, and is likely one of the more “educational” tastings that could be offered.
So what are the “Big Eight” varietals?
The Red Wines that Make up the Big Eight are: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz.
The Big Eight White Wines include: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio.
So you want to get a 30,000 foot overview of what a varietal can offer, in terms of color, aroma, flavor and weight. Take a list of the big eight varietals to your local wine merchant and ask for help in picking out consistent true to form producers who will give you a good baseline, a starting point for each varietal.
Good New World producers to start with (not pricey, but consistent and available everywhere): Hogue Cellars, Beringer, Robert Mondavi, Columbia Crest, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Rosemount, Kenwood, Covey Run, and Penfolds.
