What The Color Of Wine Says About The Drink
When it comes to wine, the color can say a lot about the drink. From whites to reds, each hue has its own flavor and personality. So what does the color of your wine say about you?
Generally, white wines are considered more refreshing and easier to drink while red wines are often seen as more complex with richer flavors. But of course, there are always exceptions!
No matter what your preference is, though, learning about the different colors and what they represent can be fun and informative.
So pour yourself a glass (or two) and read on for everything you need to know about wine color psychology. Cheers!
What do the different colors of wine mean?
Some people believe that the color of the wine can say a lot about the drink. Reds are often considered to be full-bodied and heavier, while whites are thought to be more refreshing.
Does this hold true for all wines? How do you pick a wine based on its color?
Red
Most red wine is made with dark-colored grapes, and the skins of these grapes contain a pigment called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin is responsible for the red, purple, or blue hues found in many fruits and vegetables, and it is also what gives red wine its distinctive color.
The longer the grape skins are in contact with the juice, the darker the color of the wine will be. In general, lighter-bodied red wines tend to be paler in color, while heavier red wines are darker.
The color of red wine can also be affected by the type of oak barrels used during aging. For example, wines that are aged in new oak barrels tend to take on a reddish hue, while wines that are aged in older barrels tend to be browner in color.
Despite all of these factors, the most important thing to remember about red wine is that it should be enjoyed for its flavor, not it’s color.
White
While there are many different shades of white wine, they all have one thing in common: their lack of color. But why is this? The answer has to do with the grapes that are used to make white wine.
White grapes have very thin skins, which means that they don’t contain as much of the pigment that gives red wine its color. In addition, white wines are usually made with just the juice of the grape, rather than the whole grape.
This further reduces the amount of color in the wine. So what does this lack of color mean for the flavor of white wine?
Many people believe that white wines are lighter and more refreshing than red wines. They often have floral or fruity aromas and can range from crisp and dry to sweet and luscious.
Green
The first thing to know about green wine is that it’s not actually green. The green tint is the result of chlorophyll molecules, which are found in all plants and give them their green color.
Chlorophyll is what helps grapes convert sunlight into energy, so it’s present in all grape skins. However, it’s usually filtered out during the winemaking process. So, when you see a wine with a green tint, it’s an indication that the wine is young and has spent less time in the bottle.
As wines age, they lose their chlorophyll molecules and take on a browner color. Green wines can come from any grape variety, but they’re most commonly made with Sauvignon Blanc or Semillon.
These varieties have high levels of acidity, which can make them taste tart or even harsh. However, they can also be incredibly complex and elegant. If you’re looking to try a green wine, start with a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or Semillon from Australia.
Orange
Orange wine is a type of white wine that is made using extended skin contact. This technique is usually associated with red wine production, as it allows the wine to pick up color and tannins from the grape skins.
However, in the case of orange wine, the skins are left in contact with the juice for a prolonged period of time, often for several months. As a result, orange wines tend to be much darker in color than traditional white wines, and they often have a more robust flavor profile as well.
While orange wines can be made from any type of grape, they are most commonly produced using white varietals such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
In recent years, orange wine has seen a resurgence in popularity, with many high-end wineries producing their own take on this unique style of wine.
Rose
Rose wine is one of the most popular types of wine, and it comes in a wide range of colors, from pale pink to deep ruby. But what do these different colors mean? The color of rose wine is determined by the amount of time that the grape skins are in contact with the juice.
For lighter-colored wines, the skins are removed after a brief maceration period, while for deeper-colored wines, the skins may be left in contact for several weeks. The resulting color can vary greatly depending on the type of grape used and the winemaking process.
However, regardless of its color, rose wine is typically light-bodied and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for a summer picnic or evening dinner party.
So next time you’re choosing a bottle of roses, don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors. You may just find your new favorite!
Conclusion
So, what do the different colors of wine mean? To put it simply, red wines are made with red or black grapes, while white wines are made with white grapes. The skin color of the grape variety determines the color of the wine.
The amount of time that the grape skins are in contact with the juice also affects the color of the wine. For example, if the skins are removed immediately after crushing, the wine will be pale in color.
On the other hand, if the skins are left in contact with the juice for a longer period of time, the wine will be darker in color. In general, red wines tend to be deeper in color than white wines.
Now that you know a little bit more about the different colors of wine, you can choose your next bottle with confidence!
White wines are perfect for occasions when you want a refreshing beverage, while red wines pair well with hearty meals. And if you’re ever feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to try a pink wine – it just might become your new favorite!
