Red, Red Wine….
When purchasing wine, we have always been led to believe there are two main types: red and white. Yet there are many varieties of each Type Of Wine. Red Wine for example comes in eight major types. These red wine types are Barbera, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese. Each wine is categorized by the type of grape it is made from in addition to the production area. Varietal Wines are named after the grape they are produced from and the first letter will be capitalized. Yet, each wine has its own characteristics and you will need to know these in order to choose the appropriate one.
Two red wine types are only produced in the state of California. These wines are Barbera and Zinfandel. Barbera is similar to Merlot, yet doesn't have many of the same attributes. With its juicy plum taste and silky texture, this wine is very versatile and often accompanies dishes with tomato sauce bases. Zinfandel, on the other hand, is commonly referred to as the most versatile wine. Depending on the freshness and heaviness of the wine, it can be served with a variety of dishes.
Other red wine types are grown in a variety of locations. Pinot noir is described as full-bodied and with a velvety, soft texture. This wine often accompanies chicken, lamb and grilled salmon. Sangiovese is a fruity wine and moderate to high natural acidity. The aroma of this wine may not be as easily identifiable as others. Mediterranean and Italian dishes often compliment this wine. Syrah grapes produce an intense wine, rich in color and accompanied by a spicy aroma. These wines will pair well with any meat or meat-based dish.
Malbec, as a varietal, produces a very intense wine so it is often used in blends to make other Types Of Wines. This wine pairs well with red meat, whether served alone or in a dish. Its ripe flavors tend to make one think of jam and is enjoyed by all. Cabernet Sauvignon, in contrast, prefers red meat this is simply prepared. This wine is consumed world wide and is said to have many health benefits, such as cardiovascular disease prevention. Last, but definitely not least, of the red wine types is Merlot. This wine is perfect for those new to the drink as it has a very soft taste and pairs well with any dish. When in doubt, this is the wine to buy.
White, White Wine...
The drinking of fermented grape juice dates back to the beginning of time. Wine is made in two main colors red and white. If you're looking for a light wine you want to choose a white wine. There are several different types and uses of white wine. White Wines are great with meals and desserts. These wines can also be used as a cooking ingredient. When choosing a white wine you should take into consideration what your planning on using the wine for.
Of all the white wines there's 7 that are most popular with consumers Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Pinot gris, Muscat and Riesling. Chardonnayis probably the most popular of all the types of white wines. Chardonnay is an excellent addition to a nice chicken or fish dinner. This wine can also be used to enhance the flavor of meats during preparation. Sauvignon Blanc a wine made in New Zealand and is often used by chefs to prepare meals. Sauvignon blanc is made with a variety of fruits and it tends to have a tropical flavor to it.
For those of us who enjoy a sweet flavored wine Muscat is the wine to choose. Muscat is usually served by itself as a dessert wine. Dessert wines are made from sugar so they have a high sugar content. The grapes used in Muscat wines are grown in Italy, France, German, California and a small portion used to make Muscat Ottonel can even be found in the state of New York. A small glass of Muscat is great sweet replacement to a slice or cake or pie.
Gewurztraminer is a spicy white wine made with white grapes. It has a smell of roses and the allspice season. Pinot gris in Italy its called Pinot Grigio. The wine has a sweet citrus smell but it's very acidic. Of all different the types of white wines Semillon is best served blended with another wine to make a sweet authentic flavorful wine. The Semillon grape grows in Argentina and is produced when the grape is over ripe. Riesling is often compared to Muscat but it has it's own unique taste and aroma. Whatever kind of white wine you choose they are a great addition to a meal or as an after dinner treat.