What is a Noble Grape? As my lovely friend Brenda introduced me to their amazing 40 Knots Pinot Noir instead of my usual glass of Meritage, she gave me the lowdown. It opened my wine knowledge and I just had to share.

Did I drink wines that were considered "Noble"? Now I was curious and had to dig further. The term ' Noble Grape' refers to international varieties of grapes that have distinguished themselves from hundreds of other varieties for making top-notch high-quality wines.

If you have ever drunk wine with your friends that they have made in their basement, you must concur that not all grapes make equally good wine. Mostly originating in France the first 7 classified as Noble are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. With hybrids, improved production methods, this 7 has grown to as many as 18.

Here are the Reds. Pinot Noir, Grenache, Merlot, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and finally Malbec. Noble White Grapes are Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Moscato, Gewurztraminer, Semillon, Viognier, Chardonnay.

So knowing a little bit about a Noble Grape, now you know that our amazing VinoSpa skincare is ' Noble' as well. This crazy new world we live in is the perfect time to remember to take care of your soul. There is nothing better that I can recommend than a glass of one of the 40 Knots wine's that sings your name, and to bathe in a tub full infused with all the nutrients your skin is craving in our Noble Spa, while you relax. Be present. Take some deep breaths while you breathe in the aroma of one of our amazing essential oil candles: Happy; Healthy; Mindful; Relax. Pat dry and follow up with our skin melting Butter and wrap yourself in your favorite blanket and pull out a book and immerse yourself in a far-away place.

I know, because I just did this and am now cozied up in my bed with a new read.

Why does VinoSpa use the Pinot Noir grape? Let's check in with Dr. David Friedman's Health Blog, where he ranks Pinot Noir, the healthiest of the red wines:

Pinot Noir

This is by far the healthiest red wine and my top pick. Pinot Noir has a higher resveratrol concentration than any other red wine. Resveratrol is an antioxidant compound that has been shown to improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol and high blood pressure. Some studies have also suggested it can improve brain health, insulin sensitivity, and increase our lifespan. Additionally, research also suggests that resveratrol slays cancer cells and bolsters heart health, hence the reason why red wine is commonly recommended by cardiologists.

Research also shows the high resveratrol in Pinot Noir may fight the negative effects of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other degenerative neurological illnesses. In addition, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published research showing that drinking Pinot Noir can raise levels of omega 3 fatty acids which are believed to promote heart disease and help balance the gut microbiome.

As an added bonus, Pinot Noir has a lower sugar content and fewer calories than other red wines.

Gayle Miller

I have always wanted to write. I am honoured to be invited to write for 40Knots.

I hope to entice you into following me on my passions and adventures.