At first glance, the difference between red wine and white wine seems simple. Red wine is made from red grapes, and white wine is made from white grapes, right? Well, sort of.
All grapes, no matter the color of their grape skins, produce clear juice. So how do wines get their unique colors in the first place? To understand the differences between red wines and white wines, you have to understand the grapes and fermentation processes used for each wine type.
Which Grapes?
It’s understandable that many people assume red grapes equal red wine. And this is true, as dark grapes make red wine. Some examples of red wine are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Talon Wingspan Red.
So, white grapes make for white wine, yes? This is true. But what is also true (and leads to confusion) is that dark grapes, such as red grapes, can also produce white wine. These wines are known as “Blanc de Noir.” Confusing? Let’s examine the fermentation process.
The Fermentation Process
Fermentation is the process of yeast feeding on grape sugars, which is how grape juice turns into an alcoholic beverage. Exactly how the grapes are processed during fermentation determines the color of wine.
For red wines, grapes are crushed and everything is fermented together: stems, seeds, and skins, which contribute to the color of red wine. A simple rule of thumb is the longer the skins soak in the grape juice, the darker the wine will be. So, rosé wines, known for their pink color, typically have a shorter fermentation period, while dark red wines ferment longer.
For white wine, skins and stems are removed before the fermentation process. This results in lighter colored wines, such as Chardonnay.
Red Wine vs. White Wine: Differences in Taste
Red wines usually possess a “drier” flavor profile. This is due to the presence of tannins, natural compounds that make for a bitter or astringent flavor. As red wines ferment with skins, stems, and seeds, this is why this wine category has a higher tannin content, and more full-bodied taste.
As white wines are produced using only grape juice during the fermentation process, white wines have lower tannin levels. The result? White wines typically taste more crisp, due to higher acidity levels, than red wines. White wines also have less alcohol than red wines, and taste lighter-bodied and fruity.
What To Pair with Red Wines and White Wines
Now you know the differences between red wine versus white wine, but do you know what to pair with each?
A general rule of thumb is red wines with red meat, and white wines with white meat. Of course, there are exceptions. When pairing wines with meals, consider whether you want to complement versus contrast.
- Complement: you match the wine to the flavor profile of what you’re serving. For example, a full-bodied red wine with a hearty steak.
- Contrast: you choose a wine with opposite flavors to what you’re serving. For example, a fruitier wine to go along with smoked ribs.
The seasonings you use while cooking can also inspire wine pairings. For example, smoky rubs match full-bodied red wines, while spicy foods contrast nicely with sweeter wines.
Red Wine Pairings
Here are some red wine pairings to inspire your next meal:
A Nice Steak and Sangria
Sweeter fruit wines, like sangria, are a perfect contrast to a steak’s full bodied, savory flavors.
Pulled Pork and a Glass of Rosé
The crispness and fruity flavors of rosé, a pink wine, cut through the richness of pulled pork. Try a dry rosé, with lower sugar content, to enjoy the crispness of the drink.
Juicy Burgers and Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full bodied, dry red wine that complements perfectly with a juicy burger, or a barbecued steak.
White Wine Pairings
White wine pairs especially well with seafood and white meats. Here are some white wine pairings to inspire your next meal:
Buttery Halibut and Chardonnay
Consider an unoaked Chardonnay, which is crisp and fresh, when serving buttery halibut. This fish has a mild flavor, which allows the distinct flavor profile of Chardonnay to come through.
Spicy Shrimp and Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc, a dry white wine with citrusy notes, pairs well with spicy shrimp and seafood.
Barbecued Chicken and Riesling
Riesling is a slightly sweet wine that balances barbecued chicken (whether cooked sweet or spicy).
Red Wine and White Wine: A Perfect Toast
As wine comes in so many varieties, you can enjoy trying different red wines and white wines. Remember to savor each, noting the aromas and flavors. If you prefer drier wines, select a red wine; if you prefer wines with a crisper flavor profile, select a white wine. No matter the occasion, know there is a red wine or white wine out there that can serve as the perfect toast.
This article was written by Leah Campbell at Third Loft Marketing.