Wine has been an important part of different cultures for thousands of years and has given rise to many different varieties over time. Each of these varieties has its own characteristic features that make it unique. From classic red and white wine to fortified wine or natural wine, they all differ in their production process and flavor profile. In this blog post, we will take a detailed look at the different types of wine to better understand their unique characteristics.

      

red wine

Red wine is a noble and complex type of wine that impresses with its deep red color and full-bodied taste. Red wine is made from red grapes that are first destemmed and crushed after the harvest and then fermented in the mash. The skins and seeds of the grapes are left in contact with the must to extract color and aromas. Red wine is matured in oak or stainless steel barrels, with complex aromas of fruit, spices, tobacco and wood developing over time.

The taste of red wine varies depending on the variety and origin, but typical characteristics are a high tannin structure , a full body and a long-lasting, complex aroma. Therefore, it is often served with meat dishes and cheese and should be stored at room temperature.

Overall, red wine is a type of wine that requires special care and experience in its production, but is rewarded with a variety of aromas and flavor nuances that make it an incomparable experience. Discover our red wines here .

      

white wine

White wine is one of the noblest types of wine and is characterized by its light color and its fruity and fresh aromas.
The production of white wine requires a great deal of sensitivity and precision in order to optimally preserve the natural aromas and acids of the grapes. White or red grapes are used for production, with the skins removed after harvesting. This results in a lighter color and a lighter body than red wine. After harvesting, the grapes are then gently pressed and the must is fermented at controlled temperatures in order to achieve an optimal yield of aromas and acids.

The taste nuances of the white wine vary depending on the variety and origin, but it often has notes of citrus fruits, tropical fruits, peaches or apples. When tasting, it impresses with its fresh acidity, which gives it a lively and invigorating taste profile.

White wine can be enjoyed as an aperitif, but also goes well with light dishes such as fish, seafood or salads. For maximum flavor development, the wines should be served and stored chilled. Discover the variety of our white wines here .

      

Rose wine

Rosé wine is an elegant and refreshing type of wine known for its soft color and fruity aromas. Unlike red wine, the grape juice is only briefly brought into contact with the grape skin during production, which creates the light pink color and the lighter body compared to red wine.

The taste of rosé wine varies depending on the grape variety and growing region, but it often presents a delicate balance of fruitiness and acidity, accompanied by a delicate scent of berries, rose petals or peaches. The requirements for producing rosé wine are similar to those for white wine, although the amount and duration of maceration varies and is crucial for the taste of the wine. A particular speciality is rosé wines made using the "saignée" method. Here, the juice is drawn off from red wine grapes to achieve a more intense color and an even more pronounced aroma profile.

As with white wines, it is recommended that rosé wines be served and stored chilled. They are an excellent accompaniment to light dishes such as salads, pasta or grilled fish and vegetables. Rosé wines are also becoming increasingly popular as an aperitif or summer wine and are an excellent choice for connoisseurs who prefer a fresh and fruity wine. Discover the best rosé wines from family-run wineries here .

     

dessert wine

Dessert wines are a special and noble type of wine, with the special feature of a high residual sugar content and intense aromas. In order to preserve the natural sweetness, the grapes are often harvested later and matured under special conditions.

The production of dessert wines requires a lot of patience and craftsmanship. Depending on the variety and growing area, the drying time of the grapes can be extended to increase the natural sugar and aroma content. A special method for producing dessert wines is noble rot, in which the grapes are attacked by a special mold, giving them more intense aromas and a higher sugar concentration.

Dessert wines often come in dark colors and impress with their distinctive bouquet. They are usually full-bodied and heavy, with aromas of dried fruit, honey, caramel or chocolate. When tasting, the aromas often develop further and linger on the palate for a long time.

These wines are particularly suitable as an accompaniment to desserts, chocolate or strong cheese. They can also be a special addition to an exclusive menu as an aperitif or digestif. Dessert wines are a true delicacy and a real pleasure for discerning wine lovers.

      

liqueur wine

Fortified wines are a particularly rich and sensual type of wine that impresses with their natural sweetness and full aroma. Fortified wines are made by adding high-proof alcohol, usually brandy, during the fermentation process to preserve and enhance the natural sugar content of the grapes. This also increases the alcohol content and intensifies the taste.

During aging, fortified wines are often stored in wooden barrels to develop their characteristic aromas and a softer taste. Depending on the variety and origin, fortified wines can have a variety of aromas, including raisins, dates, cinnamon or coffee.
Fortified wines are a speciality and are often served as an aperitif or digestif. They are also an excellent accompaniment to chocolate, nuts or strong cheese.

Fortified wines are a real highlight for connoisseurs and wine lovers who are looking for a special and luxurious wine. They are particularly suitable for special occasions or as a gift for true wine lovers. This port wine is an excellent representative of its species and is suitable as the highlight of any menu.

     

sparkling wine

Sparkling wine is a noble and sparkling pleasure that is particularly popular at celebrations and special occasions due to its special production and characteristic flavors. The production of sparkling wine requires a complex process in which the second fermentation takes place in the bottle, releasing carbon dioxide that forms the characteristic foam.

The flavors of sparkling wine vary depending on the variety and origin. Champagne, for example, is characterized by a fine perlage and elegant aromas of green apples, citrus fruits and brioche, while a dry sparkling wine from Germany often has fruity notes of peach and apricot.

Sparkling wine is a drink that accompanies a variety of occasions and adds a touch of luxury with its sparkling freshness and elegance. Whether as an aperitif, to accompany a festive meal or as a complement to a special moment - sparkling wine is a special treasure that leaves an unforgettable impression. Discover our sparkling wines here .

      

natural wine

Natural wine is a wine that is produced naturally and is characterized by its genuine and uncomplicated nature. Unlike conventional wines, natural wine is produced without the addition of chemicals and artificial additives. Instead, the wine is made in the traditional way from hand-picked grapes without the use of pesticides or herbicides. No artificial yeasts or sulfite additives are added during fermentation either, resulting in a wine that reflects the natural flavor of the grapes and the region.

Natural wines can vary in color from pale yellow to deep red and often have a cloudy, opaque texture because the wine is not filtered or clarified. The taste of natural wine is unique and varies depending on the variety, vintage and growing region. Natural wine is often characterized by its fruity aromas and invigorating acidity and has a distinctive character that is reminiscent of the tradition and history of winemaking. Natural wines are usually only produced in limited quantities and are often more expensive than conventional wines due to their gentle production and high quality.

Therefore, it is appreciated by lovers as an authentic and natural wine that reflects the original character of the grapes and the growing area. It is a wine that takes the enjoyment of wine to a new level and promotes awareness of sustainability and respect for nature.

     

orange wine

Orange wine is a wine that is produced naturally and is characterized by its unusual color and flavor notes. Unlike white or red wine, orange wine is made from white grapes that are vinified in the traditional way, with the grape skins also being processed. This gives the wine its characteristic orange tint and a special structure. It can therefore be said that orange wine is similar to a white wine, but made like a red wine.

The taste is also reminiscent of the strong, tannic taste of red wine, which also has fruity notes and a slight bitterness. Here, too, there are differences depending on the variety and origin. Orange wine usually has a high acidity and an unusual texture, which makes it an interesting and distinctive drink. They have a longer shelf life than conventional white wines.

Orange wines are usually produced by small, independent winemakers and are often more expensive than other wines due to their complex production and limited availability. Many wine lovers appreciate the special production as a bold and creative style of wine that expands the boundaries of traditional winemaking.

It is a wine that celebrates the uniqueness and diversity of grapes and viticulture, taking the enjoyment of wine to a new and exciting level. Orange wine is a special drink that offers unique experiences and taste sensations. Try the orange wine “El Salvaje Skin Contact 2021” by Casa de Uco from Argentina.

Non-alcoholic wine

Non-alcoholic wine is an ideal alternative for wine lovers who want or need to avoid alcohol. The wine is made in the traditional way from hand-picked grapes and then the alcohol content is removed using various methods. Most non-alcoholic wines are made using vacuum distillation or reverse osmosis to remove the alcohol from the wine without affecting the taste. Some producers also use a combination of yeast cultures and centrifugation.

The taste of non-alcoholic wine varies depending on the variety and region, and is often characterized by a combination of fruity and floral aromas. Non-alcoholic wine has a similar structure to traditional wine and is an excellent addition to meals or as an aperitif.

Non-alcoholic wine is an innovative and growing category of wine that meets the needs and preferences of wine lovers around the world. It is a drink that allows the enjoyment and conviviality of wine without alcohol.

Of course, there are many other types and styles of wine, each one unique in its characteristics, production and storage. It is worth trying different varieties and discovering the differences. Try the alcohol-free Riesling from the Goldatzel winery in the Rheingau.

Conclusion

Whether you are an experienced wine drinker or are just venturing into the world of premium wines, there is always something new to discover. If you are more interested in the topic of wine pairing, you will find a helpful article here . We hope that this blog post has helped you to better understand the different types of wine and to further enrich your wine journey.