If you have ever been to a Total Wine or a large wine store, you may have felt overwhelmed by the number of choices. A wine menu can sometimes feel overwhelming. Beyond just having to choose if you want a red, white, rosé, there are many other further categorizations to decide between as well. A ‘good bottle of wine’ is very subjective. What one person likes, another person may hate. Here are some things to consider when choosing between wine varietals.
How-to Choose Between Wine Varietals: Things to Consider
Red, White and Rosé
The very basic classification of wine varieties is red, white, and rosé. The most obvious difference between these is the color. Red wine is red, white wine is white, and rosé is pink. Believe it or not, the coloration of the wine does not necessarily coordinate with the color of the grape used. The number of grape skins used while making the wine and the process used in making them help to determine the color.
There is also a difference in the types of foods that each of these wines pairs with. Red wines pair best with meats that have bold flavors, like red meat. White wines pair best with lighter-tasting meats, like fish or chicken. When choosing between wine varietals, take into consideration what you will be pairing it with.
New Wine Drinkers
People who are new to drinking wine will likely prefer white or rosé wine. These wines are usually sweeter, lighter, and very refreshing when served chilled. Red wines are usually a bit of a more acquired taste. They usually have stronger, bolder flavors. Wine drinkers often start with sweet whites, graduate up to more buttery, heavy whites, and eventually work their way up to reds. What someone may consider when choosing between wine varietals is if they are a new or a seasoned wine drinker.
Time of Year
The time of year can play a factor in choosing a good bottle of wine. It is important to note that there is no set time of year for a certain wine varietal. For example, since white and rosé wines are usually chilled, they are especially desirable in the summer. On a hot night, lighter meals are preferable. These meal options usually pair best with white wines anyways.
Red wines are not served chilled. They also tend to have a bolder, heavier taste. This makes them a better option for colder months.
Type of Grape
Different types of grapes are grown all over the world. Depending on the climate, weather, and soil, different types of grapes do better in different regions. For example, North Carolina grows muscadine grapes and produces muscadine wines. On the other hand, Tuscany produces Chianti. Some people have a tendency to like certain wines from different countries. You will notice that wine varietals are often segmented by countries or regions where the wines are made.
