Facts About Red Wine
In the past 20 years, red wine has experienced a renaissance. These days, wine bars are popping up not just in metropolitan areas, but in small towns as well. The vast number of red wine varieties means that there is a bottle out there to complement nearly every meal and palate.
History
The creation and consumption of red wine dates back thousands of years. It is thought that red wine originated in the region now referred to as the Middle East, and spread from there to Europe.
Types
Red wine comes in a variety of types. Some popular varieties include Zinfandel, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Chianti and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Differentiation
Red wines are classified by their "body-type." A wine's body refers to its "mouth feel" and amount of tannins. Red wines may be light-bodied, medium-bodied or full-bodied.
Wineries Around the World
Red wines come from grapes that grow in different regions across the world, including Western Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South America, California and the Pacific Northwest.
Flavors
The flavor of a wine is influenced by the soil in which the grapes are grown and the method in which it is aged. Common flavors include fruits (particularly berries), pepper, tobacco, coffee, mocha, chocolate, cinnamon, anise and leather.
Health Benefits
Red wine contains resveratrol, a substance that in low doses has been found to have a positive influence on the prevention of aging and the promotion of heart health.
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