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Wine lovers tend to be very aware that all red wines are not the same, although the average person may not realize there are differences that extend beyond the label on the bottle. In reality, there are at least 50 key varieties of red wine and the colors can range from light red and ruby red to opaque purple and almost black. Even the flavor can vary greatly among the varieties, ranging from fruity to having a hint of tobacco. Learning more about reds is a great way to develop an appreciation for this versatile wine type.

Both the color as well as the flavor of wines which are red is a combination of what the variety of the grapes that are used as well as the process that the wine was made through. Grapes used to make reds range from deep red to purple to blue and the skins are left on during fermentation. The skins contribute to the varieties of color and, along with the grape seed, determine the amount of tannins in the finished product. The longer the skins are left in contact with the fermenting grapes, the deeper the color and the higher the tannin content. Reds with the highest tannin content are considered full-bodied, like Cabernet, while lower tannin content gives medium-bodied Merlot or light-bodied Beaujolais. The fruity reds, which are named because of their flavor not because there is any sweetness, have the lowest tannin content of all the reds.

The variety of colors of red wines is not the only product of fermenting the grapes with the skin. Flavenoids, which are known as antioxidants, are present in both the grape seed and skin, and they escape into the wine during fermentation. Because of this, a fuller-bodied wine has a higher flavenoid content. As a result, four ounces per day can help reduce bad cholesterol and clotting, while raising good cholesterol levels. Flavenoids have also been linked to the formation of nerve cells, which could help people avoid Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, as well as the inhibited growth of certain types of cancer cells.

Some people seem to have the mistaken belief that the only difference between the red wines and the whites is the color, or that the difference between types of reds is merely what is on the label of the bottle. Such beliefs fail to recognize the subtle variations of color, flavor and aroma that have been perfected by wine makers. In reality, the differences in the wines begin with the grapes and continue through the wine making process. Knowing the subtleties of the variations leads to a much a greater appreciation of them.

Are you aware of the true value of of the wines that you drink? Are you awaare that you can make wine by yourself? If your answer is “no” then you are in luck because there are instructional material that are able to teach you everything you need to know about wines. From the grapevine to the table you have the ability to realize how wines are valued, made and even how the grapes are cultivated. Before you know it you will be a authority of wines and will be able to impress your friends with your newly acquired knowledge. All it takes is the right know-how and you will be well on your way. For more instructional information go here: Wine Making Kits also Making Wine From Grapes as well as Yeast To Make Wine

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Posted on Sunday, October 12th, 2008 at 5:37 am and is filed under Wine.
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