Many people wonder what makes a good red wine, and how to find one that matches your personal tastes. If you want to know what the differences are between Merlot, Shiraz, Sangiovese, and Nebbiolo, you’ve come to the right place! Read on to find out more. Whether you like to drink wine young or age it, red wine has the perfect taste for just about every occasion. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect red wine for your next dinner party.
Merlot
A great red wine to complement grilled meats and vegetables is Merlot. Its smooth tannins and fruity aromas complement meat dishes like lamb, braised chicken thighs and pork loin. Its flavor also pairs well with rich foods like cheese and chocolate. Usual Wines also recommends pairing it with certain foods. The following are some of the best foods to pair with Merlot:
Sangiovese
This Italian grape produces robust, brick red wines. While its youthful flavors are bitter, they develop a complex blend of fruity and smoky earthy notes as it ages. This wine can be especially delicious paired with grilled chicken or Italian classics such as pasta. It is also an excellent match for a pizza made with red sauce and cheese. However, many of these wines are not as pleasant as their Tuscan cousins.
Nebbiolo
The thin-skinned red grape Nebbiolo is known for its production in the Piedmont region of Italy. Its name is derived from the Italian word for fog. This Italian grape is known for its high tannin and acidity content and aromas of red cherries, tar, and rose pedals. While not yet a popular wine in the US, it is gaining in popularity in Australia. Here are some tips for pairing nebbiolo with food.
Cabernet sauvignon
If you’re looking for a wine that is full-bodied, expressive, and well-balanced, look no further than Cabernet Sauvignon. This classic international grape variety transforms into wines of varying quality time again. The grape is known for its fruitiness, power, and tannic character, and it is one of the easiest types of red wine to grow. It is a favorite among foodies and wine lovers alike.
Mourvedre
Mourvedre is a versatile red grape that is grown in several countries. It is best known for its use in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, a blend that combines Syrah, Grenache and other varieties. It also grows in Spain, where it is known as Monastrell and is used in many red wines. Mourvedre is best suited to warm climates, so it is expected to become increasingly popular as climate change worsens the region’s conditions.
Malbec
You can pair Malbec with a variety of foods, but its peppery, earthy flavors make it especially suited to grilled red meat and poultry. Try pairing it with roasted pork or leaner cuts of red meat such as sirloin, flap, hanger, or skirt steak. You can even serve it with spicy foods such as barbeque sauce. If you’re looking for a food pairing for your next dinner party, look no further.