Among the most popular white wines are:
- Chardonnay: A medium to full bodied white wine grown globally. It has clear fruit aromas, including apple and pear, combined with flavors of citrus and vanilla.
- Riesling: is the emblematic wine of Germany, originating from the Rhine Valley. It starts with a sweet and sour aroma, but quickly balances out with hints of honey.
- Pinot Gris: It is a dry and refreshing Italian white wine with clear fruit flavors.
- Sauvignon blanc: is a light white wine with citrus notes and grassy aromas. It exhibits vanilla aromas when aged in oak.
Among the most popular red wines are:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: is a rich and robust wine, usually aged in oak barrels. Black fruit aromas are combined with earthy aromas.
- Pinot Noir: This is a medium to medium red wine described as smooth and fruity. It has aromas of red fruits, especially cherries, and hints of spice and earth.
- Merlot: It is a popular wine in America, but also in France. It is quite similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, but has more complex fruit flavors. It contains nuances of fine tannins, but also spices such as vanilla, specific to aging in oak barrels.
How to choose the right wine according to the dishes on the table
- Chardonnay goes best with creamy sauces or chicken dishes, forming a perfect pairing together.
- Riesling is excellent for pairing with spicy Asian cuisine or hearty dishes such as pork.
- Pinot Gris goes best with seafood, especially shellfish.
- Sauvignon Blanc is ideal for clams or other crustaceans, but goes great with grilled chicken or vegetables.
- Cabernet Sauvignon finds its perfect match in a juicy steak or other type of red meat.
- Pinot Noir goes best with game or wild veal.
- Merlot tastes fabulous when paired with a hamburger or, more exotically, with lamb or duck.
- Rose wines go very well with cheese and nuts.
- Prosecco pairs with prosciutto and melon
When dining at a restaurant, a sommelier or wine specialist will help you choose the perfect wine, even if you don’t know much about the subject. For a dinner at home, you will need to check the basic information on the label very carefully when you go shopping. Depending on the menu you prepare and the recommendations in this article, you will be able to make a wise choice that will give you a wonderful experience.