What are red wines?

Red wines are a type of wine characterized by a winemaking process that uses black grapes. Unlike white wines, during the production of red wines, the grape skins remain in contact with the juice for a specific period, giving the wine its characteristic red color. This process not only gives the wine its color, but also helps define its flavor and aroma profile, enriching it with tannins from the grape skin, seeds and stems.

Characteristics of red wine

Red wines are distinguished by a number of characteristics that intertwine to create their unique identity. First, color is one of the most obvious aspects: it varies from ruby red to deep garnet, influenced by grape variety and age of the wine. This color comes from the contact of the skins during maceration, which release not only pigments but also tannins. Tannins are components that add structure and astringency to wine, contributing to its mouthfeel and ability to age over time. Astringency and roughness decrease with aging.
The flavor profile of red wines is equally rich and varied, often with notes of red and black fruits, spices, herbs and, in some cases, earthy or woody hints, especially in barrel-aged wines. These aromas evolve over time, becoming more complex and nuanced.
Red wines vary greatly in terms of body, which can be light, medium or full, and this is determined by factors such as grape type, viticultural practices, climate of the region of production and winemaking practices. The body of the wine affects its complexity and mouthfeel, with fuller-bodied wines tending to have a greater presence and intensity of flavors.

How to pair a red wine

Pairing a red wine with food is an art that relies on creating a harmonious balance between the flavors of the wine and those of the dish. A key aspect to consider is the intensity of the wine and the food: the wine should neither overpower the dish nor be eclipsed by it. For example, a robust, full-bodied red wine goes best with rich, flavorful dishes, such as grilled red meats or stews, as its structure and tannins can balance the richness and texture of the meat.
On the other hand, lighter, fruitier red wines are ideal for less intense dishes, such as white meats, pasta with tomato-based sauces, or even some vegetarian dishes. The idea is that wine and food complement each other, with the wine helping to enhance the flavors of the dish or vice versa.
Another factor to consider is the specific flavor of the wine. Wines with spicy or smoky notes can be paired with dishes that have similar flavors, creating a flavor connection. Similarly, a wine with good acidity can contrast the richness of a creamy or unctuous dish, bringing balance to the palate.

How to choose a red wine

Choosing a red wine involves considering a number of factors that reflect one’s personal preferences, occasion, and food pairing. First, it is important to have an idea of what you are looking for in terms of flavor and body.
The context in which you intend to drink the wine is equally important. For a special dinner, you might opt for a wine with some complexity and aging potential. For a casual gathering of friends, a more approachable and easy-drinking wine might be more appropriate.
Choosing a red wine, then, comes down to a balance between personal preference, context, food pairing, and budget. Exploring and experimenting is an essential part of the process, as each wine has something unique to offer.

How to store red wines?

The storage of red wines requires special attention to preserve their quality and allow them to evolve optimally over time. One crucial aspect is the temperature, which should be constant and moderate. Red wines prefer a cool but not cold temperature, ideally around 12-18°C. Temperature swings can damage the wine and the integrity of the cork.
Bottle orientation is another important factor. Bottles should be stored in a horizontal position to keep the cork moist. A dry cork can shrink, allowing air to enter the bottle and accelerate oxidation of the wine, altering its flavor.
Light and vibration are two elements to be controlled. Red wines should be protected from direct sunlight and intense artificial lights, which can accelerate evolutionary processes and alter the wine. Vibrations, even mild ones, can disturb the aged sediment in red wines and affect their development.
Humidity is another factor to consider. An environment that is too dry can cause corks to dry out, while excessive humidity can promote mold growth and damage labels. A humidity level around 60-70% is considered ideal.