While some might assume different types of wine are segregated merely into reds and whites, this is an oversimplification. While red wines and white wines have their differences, it is the variety of wine within each group that reveals something about its taste. Although bottles of wine range anywhere from five dollars to thousands of dollars it is not necessary to spend a fortune for good wine.

Generally speaking, the types of wine that go well with seafood, chicken, turkey, Chinese food and sometimes pork, are white wines. Red wines go well with red meats such as beef, roasts and filets, lamb, duck, veal, pastas and sausages. However, this rule is not absolute.

Some types of wine might go very well with red meat, even though they are white wines. Conversely, a particular red wine could be the perfect compliment to your seafood cuisine. Generalizations are simply guidelines developed by professionals within the wine community. Feel free to experiment with different types of wine and food combinations.

Various types of wine are made and imported from all over the world. To list them all would be an all-consuming task. However, a look at a smaller sample within the United States might be helpful. In particular, California wines have become widely known due to the state's perfect conditions for growing and harvesting wine grapes. Of the many types of wine that California produces, you'll find chardonnay, french colombard, gewurztraminer, johannisberg riesling, and sauvignon blanc among the whites. White wines range in style from bone dry to sweet and are usually not aged in wood barrels to preserve freshness and taste.

At the other end of the spectrum are red wines. Of these types of wine, California produces cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petite sirah, pinot noir, zinfandel and blush wines. These wines tend to be more dry and are slightly more acidic. Red wines are commonly aged in wood for a complex, deep flavor; or are produced with a light, fruity flavor. Pure grape juice being naturally clear, red wines gain their color from the skin of the grapes.

Whether red or white, there are plenty of flavorful types of wine to satisfy the desire of any palette. Try not to limit yourself to just one variety of wine even if you enjoy it. The wide world of wines is yours to explore.