The Basics of Wine

Wine has been a staple of the human diet for centuries. It is available in dry, sweet, and sparkling varieties that match different types of foods or celebrations. A good quality table wine can be very affordable for everyday use. Premium wines can be very expensive investments.

Red Wine

There are many types of red wine that serve many different functions. Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and Syrah are dry red wines that go well with red meat or pasta dishes. Merlot is a sweeter red wine that is suitable for sipping between meals. Port is a robust type of red wine that is meant as an after dinner or dessert drink. Red wines are used most often in religious rituals or family functions when a special wine is required. They are generally served at room temperature, and the bottle should be opened at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the wine to breathe.

White Wine

White wine is best served chilled, and should be poured out in smaller glasses with long stems so that the heat of your hand doesn’t warm the wine as you drink. There are several types of white wines. Chardonnay is a dry, buttery white wine that goes perfectly with white sauces, chicken, and fish dishes. Pinot Grigio and Savignon Blanc are sweeter white wines, and are typically served with dessert after a meal. White wines don’t need to breathe before being served, but the temperature of the wine makes a big difference in the flavor.

Champagne and Sparkling Wines

The only sparkling white wine that is allowed to be called champagne is produced in the Champagne region of France. All other bubbling white wines are called sparkling wines instead. Sparkling wine and champagne come in different varieties, just like regular red and white wines. Champagne is more expensive because it undergoes a different type of processing than other wines. It is typically reserved for special occasions, and is served in long, tall champagne flutes instead of the normal wide-bowled wine glass. Champagne toasts are common at weddings and other festive celebrations, and is a common beverage during victory celebrations all over the world.