Wine can feel like a vast and complex world, but with a little guidance, you can easily navigate its major categories and understand the unique characteristics of different wine varietals. This guide breaks down the six primary types of wine – red, white, rosé, sparkling, dessert, and fortified – along with their flavor profiles, popular varietals, and food pairings.
1. Red Wine
Red wines are made from dark-colored grape varieties, with the grape skins left in contact with the juice during fermentation. This process not only gives red wine its deep hues but also infuses it with tannins, which contribute to its structure and aging potential. Red wines range from light and fruity to bold and robust, offering something for every palate.
Popular Red Wine Varietals
Cabernet Sauvignon: Known as the "king of red wines", this full-bodied varietal boasts dark fruit flavors like blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by notes of cedar, tobacco, and sometimes green pepper. Cabernet wine pairs beautifully with grilled steak, lamb, and hearty stews.
Merlot: Softer and rounder than Cabernet, Merlot offers flavors of ripe plum, black cherry, and chocolate with a velvety texture. It’s a versatile choice that complements roast chicken, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and mild cheeses.
Pinot Noir: Delicate and elegant, Pinot Noir showcases red fruit flavors like cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, alongside earthy undertones and hints of spice. It’s a great match for dishes like salmon, duck, or mushroom risotto.
2. White Wine
White wines are typically made from green or yellow grapes and are fermented without grape skins, resulting in a lighter body and crisper flavors. These types of wines are known for their refreshing acidity and versatility, making them ideal for pairing with a wide range of dishes.
Popular White Wine Varietals
Chardonnay: Often referred to as the "winemaker’s grape", Chardonnay ranges from oaky and buttery styles to crisp and mineral-driven expressions, depending on where it’s grown and how it’s produced. Try it with creamy pastas, roasted chicken, or seafood in rich sauces.
Sauvignon Blanc: This zesty and aromatic varietal is known for its bright citrus flavors, herbal notes, and refreshing acidity. Sauvignon Blanc is perfect with goat cheese, oysters, and light salads.
Albarino: Hailing from Spain, this dry white wine offers stone fruit flavors like peach and apricot, along with floral aromas and a hint of salinity. Pair it with shellfish, grilled fish, or light tapas.
3. Rosé Wine
Rosé wines are made by limiting the contact time between grape skins and juice, creating a pink hue. They can range from dry and delicate to slightly sweet, with a refreshing and approachable character. Rosé is ideal for warm weather and versatile food pairings.
Popular Rosé Varietals
Grenache Rosé: Fruity and aromatic with flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and a hint of citrus. This style pairs well with charcuterie, grilled chicken, and fresh salads.
Provence Rosé: Dry and elegant, Provence rosés often exhibit delicate notes of citrus, herbs, and red berries. They are a perfect match for seafood dishes, light pastas, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Sonoma Coast Rosé: Known for its vibrant acidity and balanced fruit-forward profile, Sonoma Coast rosés offer flavors of cranberry, rose petals, and citrus zest. Pair with goat cheese, grilled shrimp, or summer vegetables.
4. Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wines are characterized by their effervescence, created through a secondary fermentation process that traps carbon dioxide. These wines are often associated with celebrations, but they’re also great for casual sipping and pairing with food.
Popular Sparkling Wine Varietals
Prosecco: Light and fruity with floral notes, Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine that’s perfect for brunch dishes, light appetizers, or as an aperitif.
Champagne: Made exclusively in France’s Champagne region, this wine is renowned for its complexity, fine bubbles, and toasty, brioche-like character. Pair it with oysters, creamy cheeses, or even fried chicken for a delightful contrast.
Cava: A Spanish sparkling wine that’s crisp and citrusy, offering great value. It’s an excellent match for tapas, fried foods, and paella.
5. Dessert Wine
Dessert wines are sweet wines crafted to complement desserts or serve as a dessert on their own. These kinds of wines are made by concentrating the grape’s sugars, either through late harvesting, drying, or freezing the grapes.
Popular Dessert Wine Varietals
Moscato: Light, floral, and sweet with flavors of peach, orange blossom, and honey. Perfect with fruit-based desserts or light pastries.
Port: A rich, fortified wine with flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and spices. It pairs beautifully with blue cheese, dark chocolate, or nutty desserts.
Sauternes: A lusciously sweet wine from France with honeyed notes of apricot and tropical fruit. Serve it with creamy desserts, foie gras, or soft cheeses.
6. Fortified Wine
Fortified wines are types of wines that have a distilled spirit, like brandy, added during fermentation. This not only increases the alcohol content but also enhances the wine’s complexity and aging potential. Fortified wines range from dry to sweet.
Popular Fortified Wine Varietals:
Sherry: Ranges from bone-dry styles like Fino to sweet varieties like Cream Sherry, with nutty and saline flavors. Great with tapas, nuts, or salty cheeses.
Madeira: Known for its caramel, dried fruit, and nutty characteristics, Madeira pairs well with desserts, roasted nuts, and savory pastries. Find The Wine Market fortified wine recommendations here..
Marsala: A Sicilian wine that’s available in dry and sweet styles. Use it for cooking or serve it with tiramisu and custard-based desserts.
Want to learn more about different kinds of wine? Follow The Wine Market on social media!