A Cultural Connoisseur Knows Types Of Wine 

Have you ever gone to a fancy French restaurant and been utterly confused by the back of the menu?  If so, you’re not alone.  The back of the menu is where the Wine list is, and sometimes it is so extensive that it is found on a completely separate menu!  There are many different types of Wine, and each is intended to be paired with a specific type of food.  You don’t have to be a Wine expert to function at fancy restaurants like these—all you need to do is become aware of the basic different types of Wine.  This knowledge will serve you time and time again in the world of food culture. 

A Wine For Every Aspect Of The Meal 

Though there are many different ways in which the types of Wine can be classified, one of the most common ways is by the portion of the meal with which it was intended to be served.  This method of categorization is a no-brainer and ensures that you will be able to pick a type of Wine for every occasion. 

Apéritifs are also known as appetizer Wines, and they are made to be consumed prior to a meal.  Appetizer Wines typically contain anywhere from 14 to 20% alcohol, making them richer and sweeter than Wines that were made to go along with the main course.  Types of Wine usually classified under this category include: Vermouth, dry sherry, and

Main dish Wines are typically either white Wines or red Wines.  Though both work well with main courses, each works better with different dishes.  Typically, white Wines go best with fowl, white meats, and sea food.  They can range from being very sweet to somewhat dry, and are best served chilled. 

Red Wines, on the other hand, are always fairly dry and are best served with spaghetti, red meats, and any food that is strongly seasoned.  Both red Wines and white Wines typically contain 10-14% alcohol, as they are served with the main course and meant to have a lighter taste.

For formal occasions, it is common for sparkling Wines to be served.  These types of Wines are sweet and best served as either an appetizer Wine or a dessert Wine.  Popular sparkling Wines include: Blanc de Noir, Champagne, Blanc de Blanc, and Spumante.  There are even Wines designated for dessert!  They range in flavor from being very sweet to medium sweet.  Port Wine, sweet sherry, Tokaji, Sauternes and muscatel are all common dessert Wines.  However, just because a Wine falls within this category does not mean it is only served with desserts, merely that it is most commonly served with desserts. Other Classification Methods 

It is possible to classify types of Wine using methods other than by the course they are associated with.  Some choose to categorize Wine by vinification method, quality, vintage, taste, or Wine style.  There is no set rule for classifying different types of Wine.

A Perfect Match 

After narrowing down which Wines go with a specific course, the next step is being able to narrow down the list of Wines so that you can pick the type of Wine that would best go with a specific meal.  This is difficult for many people to do, and most rely on the waiter’s recommendation. 

When pairing Wines with food, it is important to keep a few factors in mind.  The first key thing to remember is that white Wine goes well with white meat, while red Wine goes well with red meat.  Also, salty and sour foods go best with acidic Wines, while bitter Wines and bitter foods go well together.  Sweet Wines and sweet foods go hand in hand, while delicate food and delicate Wines pair up just nicely.  Finally, pair medium-bodied Wines with medium flavors.  Much of Wine pairing is simply common sense!

A Capable Connoisseur 

Next time you go to a fancy restaurant, you won’t have to spend a long time looking confused at the long list of Wine types, or ask the maître d’ for assistance.  With your newfound knowledge of the many different types of Wine, which courses they are associated with, and which meals they pair best with, you are on your way to becoming a Wine expert. 

George Kissi

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