FAQs
Wine was originally produced primarily as a way to preserve grapes during times when they were scarce. During this time, winemakers would make wine without adding extra sugars or acids to balance out the acidity of the grape juice. As a result, most early wines were naturally tart and acidic.
No, not necessarily. Wine contains two main components - alcohol and water. While alcohol makes up about 85% of the total weight of wine, the remaining 15% consists of water.
Red wine refers to the color of the liquid inside the bottle. White wine has no color at all. Red wines generally have higher levels of tannins, whereas whites often have lower amounts of tannins.
Table wine is meant to be served chilled. Dessert wines are intended to be enjoyed warm. They're often fortified with additional ingredients, such as brandy, sherry, port, or Madeira.
Sparkling wine is carbonated through the addition of CO2 gas. Non-sparkling wine doesn't get fizzy like champagne.
Rosé wine is simply red wine that has been colored slightly pink due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments. Pink wine is actually a type of white wine.
Vintage wine is wine that comes from a specific year. Modern wine is wine that isn't bottled until after the year in question.
Varietals refer to the type of grapes used to produce the wine. Generic wine is wine that uses a blend of various grapes.
French wine tends to be lighter bodied and fruity, whereas Italian wine is heavier and richer. Both styles of wine are available in a wide range of flavors and price points.
Spanish wine is light bodied and citrusy, while Portuguese wine is full bodied and rich.
Champagne is traditionally produced in France, but now you'll find sparkling wine being produced throughout Europe. Sparkling wine is essentially Champagne that has had its bubbles removed.
Sweet wine is meant to accompany desserts. Dessert wine is meant to be enjoyed alone.
White wine is meant to complement seafood dishes, while red wine is best paired with meat dishes.
