Cabernet Franc is a blue-black grape that is grown around the world, mostly for blending with other red wine grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but also for its own varietal wines. Cabernet Franc is also commonly used for ice wines in North America. The varietal wines created from Cabernet Franc grapes is bright red because of the light color of the grapes.

Barbera is the third most widely planted red grape variety in Italy though it is most common in the Asti and Alba regions. Barbera grapes produce rich, red wines with strong fruit flavors and aromas, especially black cherry. Other characteristics of wines made with Barbera grapes include low, mild tannins and high acidity which produces a crisp taste.

Malbec grapes originated in France and play a big role in the wine production of Argentina. The flavors and aromas of wines made from Malbec grapes include blackberry, cherry, plums, and chocolate. Other characteristics of Malbec wines include inky-black coloring, soft or high tannins, and high acidity.

Malbec wines aren't as popular as wines made from other red grape varieties, but their popularity is growing as wine drinkers seek out new and different wine experiences.

Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are among the most widely grown, widely know, and widely enjoyed grapes for red wine. The flavors and aromas of Cabernet Sauvignon wines include vanilla, currants, and even green bell pepper if made form underripe Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Other characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon wine include high alcohol levels and strong tannins. These strong tannins make it easier to age Cabernet Sauvignon in cellars for many decades.

Grenache grapes originated in Spain where it is called Garnacha, but Grenache is the name by which the grapes and resulting wine are most commonly known. Grenache wines have flavors and aromas of strong fruit, raspberries, and a bit of spice.

Other characteristics of wines made from Grenache grapes include weak colors, soft tannins, and high alcohol content. Grenache tends to be most closely associated with the southern French region of Rhone where it is grown widely.