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Red And White Wine: The Difference

Like many other people, you probably enjoy an occasional glass of wine. You've probably tried various red wines and white wines. But do you know the difference between reds and whites? The color, obviously, but there are other factors that make reds and whites quite different.

Both red wine and white wine can be either dry or sweet, or anywhere in between. But in general, reds are more robust and more complex than white wines. White wines tend to be lighter, without the complexity of reds. This basic difference has more to do with how the wines are fermented than it does with the grapes. Although red wines are generally made with red and black grapes, and white wines are usually made from green grapes, this isn't always the case.

The main difference between red and white wines is the fermentation process. When making white wine, the stems, seeds, and grape skins are removed from the grape juice after pressing. With red wines, the grape stems, seeds, and skins are left in the juice. Because of this, tannins and pigments will leach out of the stems, seeds, and skins into the grape juice. It's these tannins that produce the complexity of red wines.

Tannins are compounds present in grapes and other plants. Tea also contains tannins... if you've ever drank a strong cup of tea, the bitter, astringent taste is caused by these tannins. In wine, these tannins act to prevent oxidation of the wine while it ages. This is important in red wines, since reds are generally aged and matured for a longer period of time than white wines. The tannins present in red wine also provide another layer of flavor, increasing the complexity of the wine, and making it more robust. The astringency of the tannins will diminish and mellow as the wine ages.

Both red and white wines make an excellent addition to your meal. There are no hard and fast rules for matching wine and food, but the differences in wine do provide some guidelines. Usually red wines, because of their complexity will match better with a strong flavored meal. White wines, with their lighter body and taste match better with chicken or fish. But the main factor in choosing a wine for a meal is your own taste. Whether you prefer a light, white wine, or a full-bodied red, just choose whatever wine you prefer to accompany your meal, and enjoy!

About the Author:

Learn more about wines and winemaking at Wine Country Guide.

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The single most important ability to develop when embarking on the adventure of wine tasting is to teach yourself how to recognize quality. When I was a very young sommelier, I had no mentor, no professional direction other than my own common sense. I was thirsty for the counsel of anyone with some depth of experience in wine. While working in a formal dining room, I had the privilege one evening of serving Andr� Gagey, the director of the esteemed Burgundy house Louis Jadot. With enthusiasm and innocence, I asked him "Mr.Gagey, could you please tell me how you taste wine?" To my eternal gratitude, he gave the question some thought and then answered: "When I first approach a wine, I always ask myself �Is this good wine?� And then at the end, again, �Is this good wine?� " I will always remember his kindness in giving me the best advice I�ve ever received on how to taste wine.
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You are the expert, when it comes to your own palate. There is no one else that can decide if you love it or hate it.
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Don't store sparkling wine in the refrigerator for more than 3 weeks unless it has a plastic cork. (The cork will dry out and the seal will fail.)
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Wine serving: How to get the best out of your bottle - Scoop.co.nz (press release)

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 22:55:42 GMT

Scoop.co.nz (press release)

Wine serving: How to get the best out of your bottle Scoop.co.nz (press release), New Zealand - Apr 7, 2008 Open bottle, pour wine, drink. When it comes to serving wine, there are a few additional steps which can enhance the tasting experience. ...

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Featured Monterey Event: Spring Winemaker Dinner at Chateau Julien Wine Estate. A bountiful Carmel Valley harvest of the finest local fare paired with limited release Estate Vineyard and Private Reserve wines acentuate the simple elegance and beauty of the Chateau this spring evening in the Valley. Barrel samplings and new releases selected by the Winemaker.

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