Red vs White: What is the difference?

Red and white wines are two of the most popular types of wine. While both are made from grapes, there are key differences between the two that go beyond just their color. In this post, we'll explore the main differences between red and white wines, without getting too technical.

One of the most obvious differences between red and white wines is their color. Red wines get their color from the skins of the grapes (color compounds called anthocyanins), while white wines are made from grapes with little or no skin contact. This means that red wines are typically richer and more complex in flavor than white wines. However, red grapes can also make white wine! Because the juice from nearly all grapes (red and white) is clear, you may find wines like white merlot or white cabernet!

Another key difference between red and white wines is their flavor profile. Red wines are generally more full-bodied and bold, with flavors like black cherry, blackberry, and chocolate. White wines, on the other hand, are often lighter and more crisp, with flavors like apple, pear, and citrus. A white merlot may have some flavors from both categories, making it even more complex.

The temperature at which red and white wines are served can also vary. Red wines are typically served at room temperature or slightly below, while white wines are usually chilled. This is because red wines are often more complex in flavor and can benefit from being slightly cooler, while white wines are more refreshing when served chilled. That said, if you like putting ice in your wine regardless of the color, you’ll find you’re actually in the majority.

When it comes to food pairings, red and white wines can both be paired with a wide variety of dishes. Red wines are often paired with hearty dishes like steak, while white wines are often paired with lighter dishes like seafood or salads. However, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wine pairings, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. One of my favorite books on the subject is called What to Drink with What you Eat and it has pairings that you might not have thought of, like chocolate cake and kit-kats! You can get that particular book on Amazon.

In summary, the main differences between red and white wines come down to their color, flavor profile, serving temperature, and food pairings. Whether you prefer a bold and complex red wine or a refreshing and crisp white wine, there's a wine out there for everyone to enjoy.

To find out more about food pairings, serving temperature, and the other differences between red and white wines, as well as a vast array of other topics, keep checking my blog or put together a tasting that I can lead to teach your guests all manner of fun topics!