Wine is one of the most sophisticated alcoholic drinks of all time. There are many types of these alcoholic drinks, each of which can suit various tastes and preferences, as well as be paired with many dishes based on the occasion.
Wine selection based on the type
There are different types of wine, including red, sparkling, white, and rose wine. Each of these wine variations has its own types, for example, red wines are produced from blue or black grapes, during which the skins are left in contact in the fermentation process. This is how they obtain their deep rich red color. Just like other wines, red wines also come in different types, for example dry, semi-dry, and fortified. Each of these wine types has specific traits to distinguish them. For example, the sugar and alcohol contents. Here are some examples.
Choosing red wine according to occasion
Each of the red wine types is best suited to certain dishes, that are served on specific occasions or events. Starting from the dry red wine, it usually is characterized by less than 5 grams of residual sugar per liter and is best served at formal dinners, dinner parties, and even casual gatherings. For the formal dinners, you can choose Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pair dry red wines, and pair them with steak, lamb, and even rich pasta sauces. For dinner parties, you can choose Pinot Noir and pair it with roasted chicken and mushroom risotto as it can complement and elevate the dish’s flavors. As for the casual gatherings, you can choose Shiraz which works well with barbecue or grilled meats served even in outdoor events.
Semi-dry types of wine are typically served at family gatherings, picnics casual lunches, and even celebratory events. During family gatherings, they can be combined with various dishes, for example, hard cheeses, grilled meats, and chocolate desserts. At picnics and casual lunches, semi-dry wine can complement lighter fare such as salads, seafood, and charcuterie boards. As for the celebratory events, the slight sweetness makes the drink more enjoyable for various toasting and good wishes.
Fortified wines are for dessert pairings, after-dinner drinks, and special celebrations. For dessert pairings, you can choose Ruby Port and serve it with chocolate cake or cheese platters. As for the after-dinner drinks, they can be enjoyed on their own and serve as a casual hang-out beverage between family and friends.
Choosing sparkling wine according to the occasion
Sparkling wine has a few types, including champagne, prosecco, cava, and sparkling rose. This type of wine can be used on many occasions, including celebratory events (weddings, anniversaries), holiday gatherings, casual brunches, outdoor picnics, and BBQs, as well as dinner parties and spicy food pairings.
Champagne is one of the beverages that many people around the world reach to for different celebratory events. So, to celebrate something, you can choose champagne and combine it with caviar or oysters, or Prosecco with fruit-based desserts. For holiday parties, you can choose Cava to pair with tapas and savory dishes, or Sparkling Rose to pair with both sweet and savory appetizers.
White wines based on the occasion
Just like the previous two wine varieties, white wines also come in many types, including dry, semi-dry, and fortified variations. You can pick these for many occasions, including formal dinners, casual gatherings, celebrations, and holidays. Starting from formal dinners where you can serve Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the dishes and bring out the most memorable tastes. You can pick from Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc since they have refreshing profiles for versatile dishes for casual gatherings. For celebrations and holiday meals choose Chardonnay to give a sweet contrast to savory dishes.
Choosing Rose wine for the occasion
Rose wine is typically characterized by crisp and refreshing flavors and bright acidity. While tasting it you can sense the red fruits, citrus, and some floral notes. Choosing rose wine is based on personal preferences as much as the occasion, for example, some holiday gatherings and birthdays, where a light and tasty beverage will only increase the mood. You can pair the drink with seasoned shrimp, grilled chicken with spicy marinades, pork chop with apple sauce, grilled tuna steaks, and so on. As for the rose variants, you can choose from CHÂTEAU MIRAVAL Cotes de Provence Rose, ANSELMANN Pinot Noir ROSE, and many others.
Conclusion
Wine is one of the most beloved beverages all around the world and this passion towards this drink only encourages many distilleries to widen and improve the quality of the wine types. So, choosing the right wine type mostly depends on personal preferences and of course the pairing options. However, in celebrations, many people prefer sparkling wine to add a touch of happiness. In business gatherings and formal events, many prefer light-bodied wines, including sparkling wines be it rose or champagne. While in birthdays and family gatherings, you may notice all types of wine, based on preferences.
