Guest post by Bestwineclub.com
Did you know that the first evidence of wine production dates from 6000 BC? Wine residues from
6000BC were found in clay jars in an ancient winery in Georgia. Although it’s not known from where the wine originates, it’s proven that wine has been a part of important civilizations. Wine club reviews and ratings demonstrate that red wine is people’s preferred alcoholic beverage. The distinctive flavor is addictive for wine lovers, and if you’re a red wine fan, maybe it’s time to join the red wine of the month club.
The reality is that red wine is great for any occasion. People love to celebrate the happiest moments of their lives with a glass of red wine but also complement their sorrow with a bottle of nice red. Red wine is also the perfect wine club gift for any occasion. One bottle of quality red wine with a box of the finest chocolate, and you’ll make someone the happiest person on this planet.
How is Red Wine Made?
The first step towards making red wine is growing quality grapes. Quality grapes will determine the quality of the wine, so this is the crucial step. The grape harvest is done by hand or by mechanical harvesters, that professional wineries prefer. Once the harvest is done, it’s time for alcoholic fermentation. Alcoholic fermentation includes mixing yeast and sugar to make CO2 and alcohol. The next step is pressing, and this step is optional, meaning some winemakers avoid it. Pressing means the grapes are pressed to separate the skins from the juice. Winemakers that avoid this method crush the grapes to get grapes juice. The crushing method gives red wine more quality, but around 20% of the juice volume can be lost. Once the pressing and crushing are done, it’s time for the aging process. Winemakers typically use four vessels for aging red wine: Steel, oak, concrete, and amphora. Each vessel gives the red wine a distinctive flavor. After the wine is aged, winemakers remove the clear wine from the sediment. Some winemakers even add Sulfur dioxide as a preservative to prevent spoilage, but many winemakers have been practicing only natural winemaking without using preservatives. Any remaining sediment from the wine is removed with the process of filtration, and once that is done, the final products are bottled and stored.
Types of Red Wine
Red wine is classified by body type, meaning by how heavy the wine feels when you drink it. There are three body types: full-bodied, medium-bodied, and light-bodied.
Full-Bodied Red Wine
This red wine contains the highest tannins, meaning it leaves a heavy taste in the mouth when drunk. Full-bodied red wines are bold and commonly paired with rich foods. Some of the most popular full-
bodied red wines include:
- Shiraz: Shiraz is packed with tannins and has a fruity and spicy taste. Shiraz is also packed with antioxidants, promoting good health, and is probably one of the healthiest alcoholic beverages. To get the most of the Shiraz, combine it with intense flavors.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: This is probably the most famous red wine in the world. People love to combine it with a nice piece of steak, but it goes perfectly with any meat.
- Malbec: Originating from Argentina, Malbec has also created a fan base in America. The wine has a fruity taste and spicy finish, and it’s excellent when paired with beef.
Medium-Bodied Red Wine
Medium-bodied red wines are not too bold but also not too light. They contain just the right amount of tannins to give a nice flavor without being too intense.
- Merlot: This is one of the most popular red wines. It’s a wine lover’s favorite because it’s a versatile wine that matches any food perfectly.
- Zinfandel: This wine has a fruity flavor with a tobacco finish. It’s high in acidity and contains mid-range tannins. The wine is bold but light and can be perfectly paired with ribs.
- Cabernet Franc: This excellent wine can be perfectly paired with a nice bowl of pasta. It’s not too heavy and not too light; just perfect.
Light-Bodied Red Wine
Light-bodied red wines are light, refreshing, and perfect for drinking alone or with any food. Some of the most popular light-bodied red wines include:
- Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir is a light and dry wine with high acidity. The wine has a fruity flavor with earthy notes. Pinot Noir can be a bit pricey, but wine lovers worldwide claim it’s worth every dollar.
- Lambrusco: This type of wine is sparkling and has a sweet taste. Since it’s light, it can be perfectly paired with pizza and pork.
- Gamay: This light-bodied red wine tastes similar to the Pinot Noir but has a much cheaper price. It contains low amounts of tannins and medium acidity and has a fruity and flowery aroma.
Red Wine and Food
Red wine can be perfectly paired with any food, especially meat. Here’s how to perfectly pair a glass of your favorite red wine and meat.
Red Wine and Lamb
Lamb can have a different taste, depending on the age of the lang, but it’s a meat that’s tasty no matter how it’s cooked. Lamb can be perfectly paired with Pinot Noir, especially if the meat is from a young
Red Wine and Steak
There’s nothing better than a nicely cooked steak and a glass of red wine. Suppose you want the
ultimate dining experience, pair steak with a medium or full-bodied red wine. Red wine with more
tannins paired better with steak than light-bodied red wines.
Red Wine and Pork
Since pork is fatter than steak and lamb, it should be compared with a wine with high-acidity or
medium-bodied red wine. Cabernet Franc and Zinfandel match perfectly with cooked pork.
Conclusion
Red wine has been a part of humankind for centuries and is not stopping anytime soon. There’s a variety of red wines on the market, and winemakers are fully dedicated to giving you only the best. We hope our guide has tough you more about red wine and how to pair it with your favorite foods. All in all, wine is incredible, but it’s even better when paired with great foods and excellent company.
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