It’s Wine O’Clock: What Do You Have in Red?

“If food is the body of good living, wine is its soul.” ~Clifton Fadiman

Buongiorno!  “It’s Wine O’Clock“ again!  Last month I talked about the different types of white wine and I recommended an amazing Sauvignon Blanc, Washington Hills. It was crisp, fruity and easy to swallow. A definite must have in your wine cellar.

This month it’s all about the red wines baby!  As you all know, red wine is my all-time favorite “food” (yes, I consider it a “food” because it is a staple in my diet! )

So, let’s not waste another minute…today I am going to focus on the ten most popular types of red wine.  Just like white wines, each wine is distinguished by the grape used and the region it is grown in.  Again because the tastes are so widely different, I also included what foods that wine would complement.

Can you tell I am overly excited?  I think I may have a problem…just kidding!  I just really love red wine! 

Types of Red Wine

Barbera

Barbera is a red grape grown in the Piedmont Region of Italy and is also found in California.  It is commonly used as a blending wine.  On its own, it tends to be quite acidic, full-bodied and has a taste of black cherries and plums.  This wine is very versatile when it comes to food but it is suggested to pair it with tomato sauce dishes.

Cabernet Sauvignon

The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is found in the Bordeaux region of France, Australia, Chile and California.  It is dark purple or ruby in color and is distinguished by its full-bodied feel and its oakey finish.  It usually has aromas of blackberries, vanilla and sometimes mint.  It goes well with all types of roasted meats.  It also goes great with brie, cheddar cheese and chocolate.

Dolcetto

This grape grows exclusively in the Piedmont Region of Italy.  It is a fruity wine with aromas of licorice and almonds.  It goes wonderful with antipasto and simple pasta dishes.

Grenache

The Grenache grape is most commonly found in Spain, California and the southern Rhone Valley of France.  This wine is considered “a great drinking wine.”  It is defined by its raspberry flavor and is medium to full-bodied.  It pairs well with hard cheeses, such as parmesan or swiss and also complements prosciutto and cured meats.

Malbec

Although Malbec is most popular in Argentina, it can also be found in California, Australia, Chile and France.  This wine has a dense red color, almost black, and commonly has aromas of blackberries and dark coffee.  This medium to full-bodied wine goes well with a red meat that is adaptable enough to stand up to spicy Mexican, Cajun, Indian or Italian fare.

Merlot

This grape is found in Italy, Romania, Chile, Australia, California, and Washington State.  Merlot is a very easy wine to drink and is what most people think of when talking about red wine.  It has low acidity, is very mellow and is defined by jammy fruits such as blackberries, plums and cherries.  This wine is so versatile, it literally can be paired with any dish.

Pinot Noir

The Pinot Noir grape is the most difficult one to grow.  It is often thought of as the “noblest red wine grape” and can be found in France, Australia, New Zealand, California and Oregon.  It has a delicate and fresh taste, is fruity with cherry, strawberry and plum flavors and has notes of tea leaves, damp earth or worn leather.  This light to medium bodied wine goes excellent with grilled salmon, chicken and lamb.

Sangiovese

This grape is found primarily in the Tuscany and Chianti regions of Italy but can also be found in small areas of California.  Sangiovese is a complex, medium bodied wine that often exudes fresh berry and plum aromas.  It goes best with Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.

Syrah/Shiraz

This grape is called Shiraz in Australia and South Africa and Syrah in California.  It can also be found in the Rhone Valley in France.  Shiraz is considered to have the deepest darkest colors of red than other red wine.  It has a moderate acidity, aromas of wild black fruit and overtones of black pepper.  For this reason, it goes fantastically with steak, other cuts of beef, and hearty stews.

Zinfandel

Zinfandel is the most versatile grape and is only found in California.  It has moderate acidity, is medium to full-bodied and has a zesty flavor filled with berries and pepper.  It goes nicely with tomato sauce pastas, pizza, and grilled or barbequed meats.

My Recommendation

Taste testing red wines is so much fun for me.  I had so many new options to choose from but the one I am featuring this month is called Arrogant Frog Lily Pad Pinot Noir.

According to Arrogant Frog:

“This wine is a bright and lovely light garnet-red.  Very elegant with aromas of strawberry, cherry, and soft spices with a hint of vanilla.  Medium-bodied with ripe tannins and acidity; develops very delicate aromas and a long lasting finish.  Drink with flavourful appetizers, hors d’oeuvres, white meat entrees and cheese platters.”

My interpretation of this wine:

“After my first sip of this garnet (my birthstone by the way) colored wine, I was indifferent.  It was just okay.  After the second and third sip, I really started to enjoy its cherry and vanilla flavors.  It was smooth, easy to drink and after a full glass, I found myself wanting more.  This was definitely a wine that grew on me and I would recommend to anyone as long as they are patient enough to give it a chance.  It pleasantly surprises you.”

Do you enjoy red wine?  What is your favorite red?  I would love to hear from you.  Please leave me a comment.  And if you liked this post, please share it with your friends.

Your Outrageously Cool Wannabe “Sommelier”,

Tagged as: good wine, It's Wine O'Clock