Wine Guide - A Basic Wine Guide For Newbies

In this basic wine guide you will learn a few fundamentals about wine

It is a misconception that white wine be served ice cold and red wine rather warm. Both should be served at the same temperature, since chilling masks the flavor. Both should be served between 55 and 60 degrees F. An exception to the red wine rule is Beaujolais wines, which usually taste better if slightly chilled. Pouring the wine into a glass or decanter allows it to mix with the air allowing the flavor to soften. The most popular wines are produced in France, the United States, Italy, Germany, Australia, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Chile. Listed are the top three countries.

French Wines

Red Bordeaux: Made from a mix of three grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The flavor is cassis and cherry, sometimes eucalyptus, woody or cedarlike, and tobacco. Usually paired with full-flavored dishes such as roasted meats or fowl.

White Bordeaux: Made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. It is lighter, crisper, and more acidic. Has a herbacious, grassy, appley and lemony flavor, and is best paired with lighter foods.

American Wines

The most popular wines are from California and the Northwest.

Cabernet Sauvignon: Made from the same grape as the French Red Bordeaux, and has a cherry, eucalyptus, wood, and cedarlike flavor. It goes with full-bodied foods.

Chardonnay: Made from Chardonnay grapes. It is one of the most popular wines in America, possessing oaky and fruity flavors, and is usually paired with lighter fare.

White Zinfandel: Has a light, crisp taste and goes well with any light fare.

Italian Wines

Borolo: Made from the nebbiolo grape. It is full, warm, and robust and is best paired with spicy foods.

Pinot Grigio: Made from the pinot gris grape. It compliments seafood dishes.

There are many more wines, but this is just a basic list of the top few.

When you dig deeper into the winemap, you will soon be fascinated over recipes and tips on new varieties. Maybe you soon will be visiting vineyards and wineries and reading winelists and tutorials... And you won't be alone - many wine lovers have discovered that very few things in life can beat a glass of sparkling champagne on a special night.

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