Valuing Red Wines
Types of Red Wine : Zinfandel Wine Facts
Although there are more than 50 key varieties of red wines, the average person tends to assume that all reds are simply red and the biggest difference between them is in who bottled them. In reality, reds encompass a color spectrum that ranges from light red wine to deep purple wine, with some being almost black. Different varieties also have distinctly different flavors, ranging from a hint of fruit to a touch of tobacco. Such a varied wine is appreciated best by first learning more about it.
The color and flavor of red wines is a combination of the wine making process and the variety of grapes used. 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.
Fermentation in the skin does more for red wines than simply creating color. The grape skin contains flavenoids, which are well-known for their antioxidant properties, and it is passed on from skins to liquid during fermentation. As a result, the fuller the body of the wine, the amount of flavenoids will be much higher. Four ounces of a full-bodied red each day helps lower bad cholesterol, raise good cholesterol and reduce clotting. The flavenoids are also thought to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells, as well as helping nerve cell formation, which can help prevent the onset of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
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.
Various wines appraise at different values so it is crucial to know your wines before you begin making big purchases for your wine cellar. There are other ways to aquire exceptional wines at incredible prices. You have the option to create your very own wines straight from your own grapes that you cultivate in your own garden or your very own vineyard. It isn’t hard once you aquire the right tools in addition to the appropriate knowledge. At your next social occasion you can furnish the wines and everyone will be impressed that you accomplished it all by yourself instead of buying them. For additional educational information go here: Making Homemade Wine with more helpful material at Ancient Wine Making in addition to Wine Making Starter Kits
