In the Pomino DOC based around the Rufina sub-district of the Chianti zone, Abrusco is permitted along with other local red grape varieties to make up to 15% of the blend along with Sangiovese (60-75), Canaiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet franc (collectively 15-25%) and Merlot (10-20%).
The vineyards at Hoya de Cadenas have a 200 hectare area, being Vallejo Arroyo and Chacelas the most attractive zones with their clayey soil that produce wines and grapes from different Appelations of Origin including Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvingnon Blanc and Bobal – symbol of Utiel-Requena Appelation of Origin.
The Firestone Paso Robles winery focuses on small lots of Paso Robles-grown Bordeaux, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
But most importantly, that same year Robert Skalli decides to cross the length and breadth of Languedoc to convince wine-producers to commit themselves to making quality varietal wines by planting new grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pinhal da Torre uses mainly Portuguese grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Trincadeira, Castelão, Arinto and Fernão Pires, which can be combined perfectly with foreign grape varieties such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Cabernet, Merlot, Sauvignon and Schiava vineyards are prevalent in the surrounding area,as are fruit orchards.
In May 2012, noted winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet joined Twomey as winemaking consultant, working closely with Director of Winemaking Daniel Baron in the production of Twomey's Napa Valley Merlot.
As well as varietal wines (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot), Vin de Pays is being used to produce non-traditional blends which do not meet the requirements of AOC or VDQS regulations.