What Is Wine?

A seemingly simple question that can easily lead down a Mariana Trench-sized rabbit hole.

This brief and informative guide has got you covered! Wine is a fermented beverage crafted primarily from grapes, although it can technically be made from any fruit. If a bottle says "wine," it's made from grapes. There are two main types of grapes: red and white. The key difference lies in pigmentation and tannins.

Examining the grapes, particularly winemaking grapes versus table grapes, reveals variations in size, color, and skin thickness. Winemaking grapes, with their thick skins, provide a balance of tannins and sweetness. The seeds in winemaking grapes also play a crucial role in balanced winemaking.

Wondering how grapes transform into wine? It's all about fermentation, initiated by sugar and yeast. Commercial yeast or naturally occurring yeast on grape skins can kickstart this process. As sugar and yeast interact, they produce carbon dioxide and alcohol.

Now, what types of wine can you make? The two primary categories are still wines (the majority) and sparkling wines, which get their bubbles from carbon dioxide. Popular styles include red, white, rosé, and the trending natural wines. Examples from regions like Sancerre, Rioja, and grape names like Pinot Grigio showcase the diverse world of wine.

While this introduction is purely here to whet your whistle, we’re trying pique your interest and set you on a delightful journey into the big world of wine. Stay tuned for more detailed explorations in future videos!