Whether you enjoy a light, fruity red or prefer something bold and full-bodied, National Red Wine Day is a good opportunity to explore different varieties and discover what suits your palate.
Also see: SA red wine gains international recognition on 2 global stages
Choosing a bottle can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when wine descriptions use terms such as ‘tannic,’ ‘dry,’ ‘full-bodied’ and ‘fruity.’ However, understanding a few basic characteristics can make it easier to find a wine you enjoy.
Start with the flavours you like
The easiest place to begin is with your own preferences.
If you enjoy lighter and more delicate wines, Pinot Noir may be worth exploring. Wines of South Africa describes South African Pinot Noir as generally lighter in colour, with distinct flavours and aromas.
For something smooth and fruit-forward, Merlot can be a good option. According to Wine Folly, Merlot is relatively smooth compared with Cabernet Sauvignon and can develop flavours including plum, chocolate and tobacco as it ages.
If you prefer a bolder, more structured wine, Cabernet Sauvignon may suit you. Wine Folly describes Cabernet Sauvignon as a full-bodied red with bold tannins and flavours including black cherry, blackcurrant and baking spices.
Understand what ‘body’ means
Wine body refers to how heavy or rich a wine feels in your mouth.
According to Wine Folly, a wine’s body is influenced by several factors, including grape variety, alcohol level and sweetness. Wines with higher alcohol levels, for example, often taste fuller-bodied.
Light-bodied reds generally feel more delicate, while full-bodied wines tend to feel richer and heavier.
If you’re unsure which style you prefer, tasting wines with different body levels can help you work out what suits your palate.
Pay attention to tannins
Tannins are another important characteristic of red wine. They contribute to the dry or slightly astringent sensation you may notice in your mouth.
Wine Folly reports that tannins can come from grape skins and seeds as well as oak ageing. The level of tannin also differs between grape varieties, with Pinot Noir generally having lower tannins while Cabernet Sauvignon tends to have considerably higher levels.
If you prefer smooth and softer wines, lower-tannin varieties may be more appealing. If you enjoy a drying sensation and a wine with more structure, you may prefer higher-tannin reds.
Also see: Top 4 South African red wine varieties explained
Don’t confuse fruity with sweet
A common misconception is that a wine described as fruity must be sweet.
That’s not necessarily the case. A dry red can have noticeable aromas and flavours of cherries, berries or plums without being sweet.
When choosing a bottle, consider whether you prefer dry or sweet wine separately from whether you enjoy fruity flavours.
Explore South Africa’s Pinotage
For South African wine lovers, Pinotage is an obvious variety to explore.
According to Wines of South Africa, Pinotage is South Africa’s best-known locally created red grape variety. It was developed by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsaut in 1925.
Wines of South Africa also notes that Pinotage can produce complex and fruity wines as they age, while younger versions can be very approachable. The variety can also be used in blends, including South Africa’s Cape Blend style.
The versatility of Pinotage means that one bottle may taste quite different from another. Wines of South Africa has highlighted several distinct styles, ranging from lighter, fruit-driven versions to fuller wines featuring dark fruit, spice, oak and coffee characteristics.
Also see: Is red wine really good for your health?
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