Saint Laurent (Saint Laur-ent) - An aromatic black grape variety planted in parts of central Europe. It is most commonly found in Austria, but is also the most widely planted red variety in the Czech Republic. Saint-Laurent wines are dark purple in color, structured yet silky with a characteristic dark-cherry flavor (similar to Pinot Noir).
Sangiovese (San-jo-VAY-zay) - The most widely planted Italian grape used as the main component of Chianti (Sangiovese grown in the Chianti region of Italy). This grape is also used in Brunello di Montalicino and Rosso di Montalcino as well as in the making of the varietal wine with medium tannins and high acidity. Also used in the more modern 'Super Tuscans' blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah.
Syrah/Shiraz (See-rah/Shih-Rahz) - Known as 'Syrah' throughout most of world, but known as 'Shiraz' in Australia. Full bodied with soft tannins and jammier fruit flavors. In the Rhone Valley region of France, Syrah is blended with Grenache and Mourvedre. Varietal Syrah can develop peppery notes, leather and smoke with age.