Begin your wine journey here. Explore foundational concepts, laid out in a clear and progressive order, setting the stage for your wine exploration. 

  • Merlot, one of the most cultivated grape varieties in the world, finds its origins in the vineyards of Bordeaux, France. Its name derives from the French regional patois word "merlau," referring to the blackbird, likely due to the grape's dark, almost black color. The first written mention of Merlot dates back to the late 18th century in Bordeaux, though it has been cultivated for far longer.

  • Embark on a journey through the mesmerizing world of Pinot Noir, a grape as bewitching as it is elusive. Its ethereal flavours and sensuous textures have bewitched wine lovers for centuries, earning it a reputation as one of the world's most cherished and sought-after wines.

  • Welcome to the vibrant world of Syrah/Shiraz, a grape variety known for its robust character and ability to produce both profoundly bold and strikingly elegant wines. It's a grape that embodies duality, known as Syrah in its homeland of France and in most of the wine world, and as Shiraz in Australia and South Africa, each expressing distinct facets of this versatile variety.

Delve deeper. This section offers a detailed exploration, building upon and enhancing the knowledge you’ve gained from the Foundation. Dive into the nuances and intricacies of the wine world. 

  • Welcome to the multifaceted realm of Zinfandel and Primitivo, a red grape variety known for its ability to produce an impressive array of wine styles. From robust, spicy reds to sweet rosés affectionately known as 'White Zinfandel,' this grape showcases extraordinary adaptability and diversity in its expressions, earning it a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts.

  • Welcome to the world of Gamay, a red grape variety known for its refreshing, fruity, and vibrantly aromatic wines. Often overlooked in favor of its more illustrious counterparts, Gamay is a hidden gem that offers an abundance of charm and character, making it a darling among wine connoisseurs in the know.

  • Immerse yourself in the world of Corvina, the leading grape variety in the red wines of Italy's Veneto region. Known for its significant role in wines such as Valpolicella and Amarone, Corvina is celebrated for its bright red fruit characteristics, moderate acidity, and its ability to produce wines with a wide range of body and complexity.

Wine Sections

Tasting and Enjoying Wine | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Tasting & Enjoying Wine

Understanding Wine Making | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Understanding Wine Making

Understanding Wine Regions | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Understanding Wine Regions

Understanding Grape Varieties | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Understanding Grape Varieties

Understanding Wine Labels | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Understanding Wine Labels

The Wines of the World | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

The Wines of the World

Wine Trends & Technology | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Wine Trends & Technology

Wine and Food Pairing | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

My Wine Adventures

Wine & Food Diary | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Wine and Food Pairing

Wine Reviews | Bernard Marr | Wine Cellar

Wine Reviews

Wines To Look Out For