Wine FAQs
What is wine?
Wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes or other fruits. The fermentation process occurs when yeast converts the sugars in the fruit into alcohol and carbon dioxide.
What are the different types of wine?
There are several types of wine, including:
- Red Wine: Made from dark-colored grape varieties, with the skins included in the fermentation process.
- White Wine: Made from green or yellowish grapes, often without the skins.
- Rosé Wine: Made from red grapes with minimal skin contact, giving it a pink color.
- Sparkling Wine: Contains carbon dioxide bubbles, usually due to a second fermentation process (e.g., Champagne).
- Dessert Wine: Typically sweeter wines enjoyed with or as a dessert.
- Fortified Wine: Wine to which a distilled spirit, usually brandy, has been added.
How should I store wine?
Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature, ideally between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C). Bottles should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to enter.
How long can wine be stored?
The storage duration of wine depends on the type and quality:
- Red wines: Typically 2-10 years, with some high-quality wines lasting much longer.
- White wines: Usually best consumed within 2-3 years, although some can age up to 10 years.
- Sparkling wines: Generally best consumed within 1-2 years of purchase.
- Fortified wines: Can be stored for many years due to their higher alcohol content.
What does "dry" mean in relation to wine?
“Dry” refers to a wine with little to no residual sugar, meaning it is not sweet. The term describes the taste profile rather than the texture.
What is the difference between vintage and non-vintage wine?
- Vintage wine: Made from grapes harvested in a single year, which is stated on the bottle. These wines can reflect the specific growing conditions of that year.
- Non-vintage wine: A blend of grapes from multiple harvest years, aiming for a consistent flavor profile year after year.