Wine aficionados can tell reds apart from whites, even with a blindfold on. But if you’re a novice who’s just beginning to learn the basics, the subtle differences between red and white wine are probably beyond you.
This is because the differences between the two are far greater than just their appearances; their varietal, age, casking, and blend all contribute to the unique experience each one offers.
Wine is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of festivities, a passionate liaison of hearts, and a luxury for dinner-time rituals. It has as many different blends and textures to offer as there are bidders for each sip.
The factors that differentiate reds from whites are even more prolific than the labels that fall under each category. Here are a few differences for starters.
Distinctive Factors
Vintner
This is the recipe that’s used by winemakers to make wine.
Age
You must have heard the saying wine only gets better with age! Time plays a fundamental role in how rich and flavorful a label is—especially for red wine.
Casking
Wine can either be casked in oak barrels or other containers. Wine casked in wood tastes noticeably different from other varieties because it has a tinge of wooden flavor in it.
Grape Blend
As the primary source of nectar, grapes transmit their own flavor and aromatic qualities to the blend they make. This is a major determinant of the taste of a wine.
Growing Season
Different time zones have different growing seasons. The same label from different places will have a drastic distinction in taste because of the distinct growing season.
Red vs. White
Even though your eyes can spot the major difference, they can trick you sometimes. For instance, some white wines are derived from black grapes, so don’t depend on your sight alone!
Red wines differ from whites because of the fermentation process. Red wines get their color from grape skins, as they’re fermented with them and the fruit seeds. However, the skins and seeds are removed during the fermentation process in the case of white wines. Similarly, Rosé wines are fermented with the skins for a short period, which give them a blushing pink shade.
Major Red Wines
Pinot Noir
Made from Pinot Noir grades, this wine is a light- to medium-bodied drink with a berry-flavored taste.
Shiraz
Made from Syrah grapes, this drink is medium-bodied and has the characteristic flavor of dark cherries and cassis, spiced with a hint of pepper.
Merlot
Made by grapes of the same name, this, too, is a medium-bodied drink with a distinct leathery texture with an earthy, tannic flavor.
Major White Blends
Pinot Grigio
Made from Pinot Gris grapes, this is a light drink with a rich flavor of ripened peaches and grapefruits.
Riesling
Made by grapes of the same name, this is a light-bodied wine with a characteristic flavor of apples and pears.
Sauvignon Blanc
Made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes, this is a medium-bodied drink with a driving citrusy flavor and a hint of herbaceous tastes.
Chardonnay
This is a full-bodied wine that’s made with Chardonnay grapes. It has an oaky flavor layered with a taste of tropical fruity goodness.
We offer wine tasting tours in Solvang. If you want to treat your palate to some of the best wines made in the local vineyards, book your place on our wine wagon for a day full of tasteful adventures.
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