FAQs About Wine

Wine is primarily made from fermented grapes. However, some varieties are also made from other fruits like apples, plums, or cherries. The type of grape and fermentation process significantly influence the wine’s flavor and aroma.

The five main types of wine are:

• Red Wine
• White Wine
• Rosé Wine
• Sparkling Wine (e.g., Champagne)
• Dessert or Fortified Wine (e.g., Port, Sherry)

Red wine is made using dark-colored grapes and includes the grape skins in the fermentation process, which adds tannins and color. White wine uses green or light-colored grapes and typically excludes skins during fermentation.

Rosé is made from red grapes but only has brief contact with grape skins, giving it its pink hue. It’s known for being light, fruity, and refreshing.

Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature (ideally 12–15°C or 55–59°F). Bottles should be kept horizontally to keep the cork moist, preventing air from entering.

“Vintage” refers to the year the grapes were harvested. A good vintage indicates favorable growing conditions, which can affect the wine’s quality and price.

Not always. While some wines improve with age, most wines are meant to be consumed within a few years of production. Only specific types, like fine red Bordeaux or Barolo, benefit from long aging.

Food and wine pairings depend on flavors and textures:

• Red wine with red meats and rich dishes
• White wine with seafood, poultry, and creamy sauces
• Sparkling wine with salty or fried foods
• Sweet wines with desserts or spicy cuisines

Wine labels usually include the producer’s name, region, vintage year, grape variety, and alcohol percentage. European wines often list the region (e.g., Bordeaux), while New World wines list the grape type (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon).

The body refers to how heavy or light the wine feels in your mouth. It’s influenced by alcohol, sugar, and tannin levels. Wines can be light-bodied (e.g., Pinot Grigio), medium-bodied, or full-bodied (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon).

Tannins are natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems. They give wine structure and astringency. High-tannin wines feel dry and puckery on the palate.

Moderate wine consumption, especially red wine, has been linked to potential health benefits due to antioxidants like resveratrol. However, excessive drinking poses health risks.

• Red wine: 60–65°F (15–18°C)
• White wine: 45–50°F (7–10°C)
• Sparkling wine: 40–45°F (4–7°C)

Yes. Wine can spoil if exposed to oxygen, heat, or light for too long. Signs include vinegar smell, flat taste, or cloudy appearance.

Organic wine is made from organically grown grapes without synthetic pesticides. Natural wine is often minimally processed, with little or no added sulfites.

Champagne is a type of sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. Sparkling wines from other regions cannot legally be called Champagne, even if made with the same method.

Yes, there are non-alcoholic wines made by removing the alcohol after fermentation. These are ideal for those who want the taste without the alcohol.