Out of habit, everyone (myself included) keeps referring to the big 6 grape varieties – Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon – but the list seems a little outdated. Where’s the Syrah? Where’s the Zin? Where’s the Sangiovese?

Winemetrics published this list last week based on wine lists in over 10,000 USA restaurants:

Top varieties Consumed:
VARIETY and % DISTRIBUTION
Cabernet Sauvignon 16.2%
Chardonnay 14.9%
Pinot Noir 9.6%
Merlot 9.0%
Cabernet Sauvignon Blends 8.0%
Syrah/Shiraz 5.2%
Sauvignon Blanc 4.5%
Zinfandel/Primitivo 3.9%
Sangiovese 3.4%
Pinot Grigio/Gris 2.8%
Riesling 2.2%
Other 20.2%

Not counting Bordeaux/Cab. Sauv. blends that’s 10. It seems like a good time for a revamp.

How about the big 10?

Winemetrics has a great deal more information for wine stats lovers on their site as well. Thanks to Vinography.com for mentioning them.

If you would like to expand your horizons beyond the big 10, please take a look at this month’s Wine Blogging Wednesday – Go native! indigenous grape varieties moderated by Dr. Vino.