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The conundrum with red wine (for those who are yet on-board) is the vast spectrum out there. A couple of harrowing experiences in close succession can result in red wine being annexed from your life. But this plethora of choice can be a blessing, if you know where to look.
Now this won't apply to everyone, but those who are in that camp might feel like a minority given the general perception of the wine industry, that being old men enjoying a bottle of claret. Fear not though! Statistically more people in the UK prefer white wine to red wine.
The reason you may not like red wine is due to a high tannin content. Tannin can come through as a bitter taste. Similar to coriander, sensitivity to potentially negative aspects (in this case, bitterness) can vary from person to person.
Therefore, tannic red wines, for some, can come across as highly unpleasant should you have a particular aversion to bitterness. But hey, at least it never tastes like soap. Luckily for us, there are low tannin red wine choices (whereas coriander always tastes like soap…for me at least).
So the next time you ponder, “Why don’t I like red wine?”, reconsider this question, and think why it may be that particular red wine you don’t like?
And what if the issue isn't with the wine, but with understanding our own preferences?
This article delves into the fascinating world of red wine preferences. We'll explore the factors that influence our taste for red wine, from the role of tannins and acidity to the impact of personal experiences and genetic predispositions.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge or someone curious about why red wine doesn't appeal to you, this article is for you.
Let's embark on this journey to understand and perhaps even develop an appreciation for red wine.
These preferences range from the inherent characteristics of the wine, such as tannins, acidity, and body, to personal factors like genetic predispositions and past experiences.
Understanding these elements can help demystify why some people relish a glass of red wine while others don't.
Let's delve into some of these factors:
Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in grape skins, seeds and stems.
They contribute to the structure and longevity of red wine. However, they can also make the wine taste bitter or astringent, especially to those unaccustomed to it.
Understanding and appreciating the role of tannins can be a significant step towards developing a taste for red wine.
Acidity and body are two other crucial factors when choosing your reds.
Acidity can make the wine taste sharp or tart, which may not appeal to everyone. On the other hand, the body of the wine, whether light, medium, or full, can also affect preference.
A full-bodied wine, for instance, can feel heavy in the mouth, which some people might find off-putting.
Red wine is known for its complex flavours.
These can range from fruity notes like cherry and plum to earthy tones like tobacco and leather. The wide array of flavours can be overwhelming for new drinkers.
However, with time and experience, one can learn to appreciate the depth and complexity that red wine offers.
Personal taste plays a significant role in red wine preference.
This can be influenced by a variety of factors, including:
Personal experiences can greatly influence wine tasting.
For instance, if your first encounter with red wine was a negative one, you might be inclined to avoid it in the future. Conversely, a positive experience, such as enjoying a glass of red wine at a memorable event, could enhance your preference for it.
Genetics can also play a role in your taste for red wine.
Some people have a genetic predisposition that makes them more sensitive to certain flavours, such as the bitterness from tannins. This could explain why some individuals find red wine less appealing than others.
External factors can also significantly influence your red wine preferences.
These include:
The temperature at which red wine is served can greatly affect its taste.
For instance, serving red wine too warm can make it taste flat and alcoholic, while serving it too cold can mute its flavours.
Pairing red wine with the right food can significantly enhance its flavour.
For example, a full-bodied red wine might pair well with a hearty steak, while a lighter red might be better suited to poultry or veggie dishes. The right pairing can make the wine more enjoyable and even change your perception of its taste.
One of the most exciting aspects of red wine is its diversity.
There are numerous types of red wine, each with its unique flavour profile. Here's a few we suggest starting off with:
Pinot Noir
Starting with a classic. The gateway of all gateways. Universally renowned, and a stellar grape to ease yourself into red wine. Due to its mass appeal, Pinot Noir has over the years been grown on the cheap in climates that are not favourable to this delicate wonder. So stick to French cool climate regions initially to avoid straying into roguer territory.
Barbera
Hailing originally from Piedmont, this grape has extended its fame well beyond the northern Italian hillsides. Slightly fuller than our Pinot, but still delightfully soft and smooth. Its medium-intensity makes it a good accompaniment to dark meats or mushroom-driven dishes.
Gamay
It would be highly remiss of me to neglect Gamay when it comes to the light red wine mixer. Rarely found outside of Beaujolais in France, but when they do Gamay so well, why look anywhere else? Effortlessly drinkable, and teasingly supple. A friend once described it as alcoholic Ribena (in the best possible sense). What more of an entry level do you need to red wine!?
Zweigelt
An Austrian stalwart. Overshadowed by the great light red powerhouses such as Pinot Noir, zweigelt offers belting value for money. It oozes with juiciness. Even the mere idea of putting the glass down when it’s teaming with this stuff, is futile.
Each varietal of red wine has its unique flavour profile, influenced by factors such as the grape variety, the region where it's grown, and the winemaking process.
For instance, a Cabernet Sauvignon from California might taste different from one produced in France, even though they're made from the same grape variety.
Understanding these differences can help you find a red wine that suits your taste preferences. It's all about exploring and finding what you enjoy.
Developing a taste for red wine is often a journey. It's not uncommon for people to start with sweeter, lighter wines before moving on to more complex, full-bodied reds.
Here are a few tips to help you on your journey:
Wine education can also play a significant role in developing your red wine palate.
Consider attending wine tasting events or taking a wine appreciation course. These experiences can provide valuable insights into the complexities of red wine and help you understand your own preferences better.
Understanding and appreciating red wine is a personal journey that involves exploration, education, and patience.
There's no right or wrong when it comes to wine preference. It's all about finding what you enjoy and appreciating the diverse world of red wine.
With the floodgates now bursting with light ruby liquid, forge on my primitive red wine friends, and be sure to email us should these options pique your interest, and recommendations for heartier red wines are imminently required.
