As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wine grapes. It is important to note that taste is subjective and can vary from person to person. However, in my experience, wine grapes do taste good, but it is important to understand their unique characteristics.
Wine grapes are known for their smaller size compared to table grapes. This smaller size allows for a higher concentration of flavors in the fruit. The flesh of wine grapes is often sweeter, providing a burst of natural sweetness when bitten into. This sweetness is one of the reasons why wine is so enjoyable to many people.
However, the texture of wine grapes is quite different from table grapes. The skins of wine grapes are thicker and chewier, which adds a unique element to the overall tasting experience. This chewiness can be enjoyable for some, but it may not be to everyone's liking. Additionally, wine grapes have a higher ratio of skin to pulp, which can contribute to a more intense flavor profile.
One important aspect to note is that wine grapes often have seeds, unlike many table grape varieties that are seedless. While the presence of seeds may be seen as an inconvenience for some, they can actually provide a hint of bitterness to the overall taste. This bitterness can help balance out the sweetness of the flesh and contribute to the complexity of flavors in wine.
When tasting wine grapes, it is important to differentiate between the aroma and the actual taste. Wine grapes tend to have a delightful aroma, with each variety having its own distinct scent. However, when you pop a wine grape into your mouth, you may be left with a slightly bitter impression from the skins and seeds. This bitterness is not necessarily a bad thing, as it is a characteristic that is highly valued in winemaking.
In my personal experiences, I have found that different wine grape varieties can have a range of flavors, from crisp and refreshing to rich and robust. Some grapes may have hints of tropical fruit, while others may be more floral or earthy. The diversity in taste among wine grapes allows for endless possibilities in winemaking, making it an exciting and dynamic field to explore.
While taste is subjective, I believe that wine grapes do taste good. Their smaller size, sweeter flesh, chewier skins, and presence of seeds all contribute to a unique tasting experience. The balance of sweetness and bitterness, along with the diverse range of flavors, makes wine grapes a key ingredient in the production of delicious and complex wines.