Mario's Pizza and Wine Bar will show you how!
Are you a wine lover looking to enhance your palate for bold and full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon? Look no further than Mario's Pizza and Wine Bar! At Mario's, you can sample a range of red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, while enjoying delicious food pairings. Today's blog is designed to guide you through the world of red wine and help you appreciate the unique flavors and aromas of each type. In this blog, we will cover the basics of red wine. By the end of this blog you'll be well on your way to becoming a red wine connoisseur.
What is red wine?
Red wine is an alcoholic beverage made from dark-colored grape varieties. The color of the wine can range from intense violet, typical of young wines, through to brick red for mature wines and brown for older red wines. The juice from most purple grapes is greenish-white, the red color coming from anthocyan pigments present in the skin of the grape. Much of the red wine production process involves extraction of color and flavor components from the grape skin.
Why drink red wine at Mario’s Pizza and Wine Bar?
There are many reasons why people enjoy drinking our delicious selection of red wine. Some of the reasons include:
The taste: Red wine can have a wide range of flavors, from fruity and light to bold and full-bodied. There is a red wine out there for everyone to enjoy.
The health benefits: Red wine has been linked to a number of health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.
The social aspect: Red wine is often enjoyed with friends and family, and it can be a great way to relax and unwind.
The ambience at Mario’s: Red wine enjoyed in a beautiful Tuscan setting with tall limestone walls, great service to enjoy all of the above!
What are the different types of red wine?
There are many different types of red wine, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular types of red wine include:
Cabernet Sauvignon: This is a bold and full-bodied red wine with flavors of black currant, blackberry, and cedar.
Merlot: This is a medium-bodied red wine with flavors of cherry, plum, and chocolate.
Pinot Noir: This is a light-bodied red wine with flavors of red fruit, such as strawberry and raspberry.
Zinfandel: This is a bold and fruity red wine with flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and spice.
Shiraz: This is a full-bodied red wine with flavors of black fruit, such as blackberry and blueberry.
How to Choose Red Wine
When choosing a red wine, there are a few things to consider, such as:
Your taste preferences: Do you prefer a bold and full-bodied red wine, or a light-bodied red wine?
The occasion: Are you drinking the wine for a special occasion, or just a casual night at home?
The food you're serving: Some red wines pair better with certain foods than others. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon is a good choice for red meat, while Merlot is a good choice for poultry.
Red meat: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz
Poultry: Pinot Noir, Zinfandel
Pasta: Chianti
Now that you know the basics of red wine and how to taste it, it's time to focus on building your palate for Cabernet Sauvignon. This bold and full-bodied red wine can be intimidating for some, but with the right approach, you can learn to appreciate its complex flavors and aromas.
Step 1: Start with White Wines
If you're used to drinking white wine, your palate may not be ready for the bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon. To prepare your palate, start by drinking dry white wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have a lighter body and lower tannins, which will help ease you into the world of red wine.
Step 2: Move on to Light Reds
Once you've gotten used to the flavors of dry white wine, it's time to move on to light reds. Pinot Noir and Beaujolais are good options to start with. These wines are lighter in body and have lower tannins than other red wines, making them easier to drink for those new to red wine.
Step 3: Try a Merlot
Merlot is a great wine to try next as it has a medium body and is not as bold as Cabernet Sauvignon. This will help your palate adjust to the flavors and aromas of red wine while still keeping things on the milder side.
Step 4: Move on to Cabernet Sauvignon
Once you've worked your way up to Merlot, it's time to take the plunge and try a Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is known for its bold flavors of blackcurrant, black cherry, and tobacco, as well as its high tannins. It may take a few tries to appreciate the complexities of this wine, but with practice, you'll learn to enjoy its boldness.
Step 5: Pay Attention to Pairing
As with any wine, pairing Cabernet Sauvignon with the right foods can enhance the flavors and make the experience even more enjoyable. This wine pairs well with rich, fatty foods such as steak or lamb, as well as hard cheeses like aged cheddar or Gouda.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, building your palate for Cabernet Sauvignon takes time and practice. Start with dry white wines and move on to lighter reds before trying a medium-bodied Merlot. Once you're ready, take the plunge and try a bold and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Remember to pay attention to the pairing of food and wine, and most importantly, have fun exploring the world of red wine. And if you ever find yourself in need of a good place to start, come to Mario's Pizza and Wine Bar, where the staff is always happy to guide you through the wonderful world of red wine.See you back soon!