Exploring The Different Types of Wine

There are many different varieties of wine, and certain regions are known for producing particular types. For someone who is new to the world of wine, learning about all of the different types can be a bit overwhelming. Not only is there red wine, white wine, sparkling wine, and rose, there are different types within each category. Different types of wines are made from various types of grapes and many are produced in specific regions around the world, where growing conditions are just right. Popular wine producing regions include France, Italy, Argentina, the United States, and Germany, among others. Learn more about the different types of wine available by consulting the following list.

White Wine Varieties

Riesling – Riesling is a clean, crisp wine that contains lime, pear, and green apple flavors. As Riesling ages, it takes on honey flavors as well. This wine is fairly sweet and is oftentimes produced in parts of Germany, as well as Australia, and New York in the Finger Lakes region. Riesling is popularly served with spicy foods as well as pork and poultry.

Chardonnay – Chardonnay is considered a versatile type of wine in that its aromas and flavor are influenced by the region in which the grapes are grown as well as how it is made. Chardonnay has a fruity flavor that can range from lime and apple to tropical fruit. It can be barreled in either stainless steel or oak, with each type having a slightly different taste. Chardonnay from oak barrels has butter and honey flavors, however if produced in stainless steel, the wine will have more of a mineral taste. Chardonnay is commonly served with seafood, and is produced in California’s coastal areas in addition to Burgundy, France.

Sauvignon Blanc – Sauvignon Blanc is an aromatic wine, with a fresh crisp, grapefruit flavor. It is very popular in the Loire region of France. This type of wine goes well with many different dishes including various types of seafood, vegetable, and poultry dishes. It is also commonly produced in the Bordeaux region of France as well as in New Zealand.

Red Wine Varieties

Cabernet Sauvignon – Cabernet Sauvignon can have flavors of black currant, plum, cassis, and blackberry. It is normally aged in oak barrels where it can take on flavors of chocolate, cedar, vanilla, and coffee. In addition to being produced in Bordeaux, France, it is commonly produced in Napa California as well as Australia, and Chile. Cabernet Sauvignon is commonly served with red meat dishes such as lamb or beef.

Merlot – Merlot is a supple, soft wine, that generally has fruity flavors such as blackberry, and plum and at times chocolate, mint, and eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Merlot generally takes less time to age than Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is produced in many different regions throughout Europe in addition to Chile, Washington state, and California. Just like cabernet sauvignon, Merlot is commonly served with red meat such as lamb and beef.

Pinot Noir – The grapes used to produce pinot noir are notoriously tough to grow. The wine has a delicate taste with flavors such as raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. When pinot noir is aged, it will develop earthy notes such as mushroom. Burgundy, France is where pinot noir is most commonly produced however it is also made in New Zealand, Oregon, and cooler parts of California. Pinot noir is commonly served with salmon, poultry, and various vegetable and meat dishes.

There are various other types of wine in addition to the red and white varieties listed above. There is also rose, which is produced from white wine grapes but utilizes some of the skin to get the pink color. There are also many different varieties of sparkling wine and other types of reds and whites. Some examples of other types of wine not on the list above include Moscato, Malbec, and Zinfandel. For anyone visiting an upscale restaurant, a Sommelier may be available to recommend the perfect food and wine pairing. For those planning on grabbing a bottle of wine at the store, a bit of research beforehand may prove helpful. Most store associates will have some knowledge of the different types of wine they carry as well. Those looking to learn more about the different varieties of wine may also benefit from going on a wine tasting tour. Learn more about wine by consulting the following links.

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