What are Some Different Kinds of Red Wines?
Red wines come in numerous types. In fact so many types exist, creating an exhaustive list would be near impossible. Most red wines are organized by types of grapes used, and are named after the French regions in which they originated. However, wines from Italy do not follow the same principles as French inspired wines, and shouldn’t be missed. A good Chianti from Italy can rival the heartiest Zinfandel or Cabernet. For the purpose of this discussion of red wines, we will look at the French inspired styles.
A Shiraz or Syrah is considered one of the heartier red wines. It is a deep dark red in color, and when properly prepared should exhibit flavors of berry, spice, and black pepper. Red wines like the syrah are often served with darker meats, like beef, or with wild game. They may also be served to counterpoint dark chocolate. Syrah red wines are grown with great success in France, California and Australia.
Cabernet Sauvignon red wines may come from Chile, France, Australia or California. They are often the most well known of the red wines, and are very hearty. Some note the grapes are slightly reminiscent of bell peppers in taste and smell. Depending on the region and winemaking process, cabs can be intensely oaky, with a warm spicy flavor. Cabs compliment red meat, especially beef, very well.
Merlot red wines have huge growing regions. One can find Merlots from Italy, France, Washington, Chile, Romania and California. The Merlot is often considered an introductory wine to the wine taster. It has a softer taste than Syrahs and Cabs. People often liken its flavor to berries and to herbs. Merlot red wines are excellently paired with numerous meats and with fish.
Pinot Noir red wines are known for their difficulty to grow. However, successful red wines form pinot grapes are grown in France, California, Oregon and New Zealand. Unlike the previous wines mentioned, flavor accents are on cherries rather than berries. Some also compare the Pinot Noirs to plum and tealeaf in aroma and flavor.
Many are familiar with white Zinfandel, a very sweet, blush colored wine. Red wines made from Zinfandel grapes are the opposite of sweet. They are often called spaghetti wines since they pair nicely with tomato sauce based foods like pastas or pizzas. Zins can be complex red wines, but are quite heavy. They may be highly flavored with oak, and have a berry aftertaste.
Other red wines include the Sangiovese, most popularly produced in Italy, and the Barberra, which bears some familiarity to the Merlot. One can also purchase red wines that are merely classed as table wines. Some of these can be quite excellent as well, and represent a blending of several different grapes. They can also be excellent bargains and just as complex in taste as more expensive wines.
Written by Tricia Ellis-Christensen
