What Foods React Badly with High Tannin Wines? 11 Foods to Avoid
One of the most memorable pairing fails I’ve ever had was with a high tannin wine and an expensive bottle of Syrah that we paid the corkage fee for at a nice restaurant. The flavors in our food clashed with the wine and both were uninspiring. What a waste. Here’s what you need to know […]
Carignan Wine Guide: Sometimes It’s Even Good
Pronunciation: care-ree-NYEHN Carignan is a red wine grape with its roots tracing back to Spain. It serves both as a blending grape in various wine regions and as a single varietal, showcasing its (very) unique character. This grape variety produces a robust, medium-bodied dry red wine with notes of blackberry, cherry, and a touch of […]
Pinotage vs Merlot: Very Different Red Wines
When it comes to red wines, some are more mainstream, like Merlot, and others take you by surprise, like Pinotage. Pinotage showcases a robust body and distinctive notes of dark berries, coffee, and a hint of smokiness, differing from the softer and fruit-forward nature of Merlot. Merlot is more common and available at all price […]
Merlot vs Pinot Grigio
Characteristics Merlot Pinot Grigio Hue Deep ruby red Straw yellow to copper Color Red White Aromas Plum, red berries, chocolate Citrus, green apple, pear Tannins Soft to moderate Low Acid Low to medium High Alcohol (%) 13-14.5% 12-13.5% Body Medium Light Intensity Moderate Moderate Key Growing Regions Bordeaux, France, California Italy, California, Oregon Classic Pairings […]
Merlot vs Grenache: What’s the Difference
When it comes to red wines, discerning the distinctions is vital for wine enthusiasts. This comparison uncorks the world of Grenache vs. Merlot. Grenache often exhibits a robust body dominated by red strawberry and cherry, with floral and herbal notes, while Merlot provides a medium to full body with rich and velvety plum. Both Grenache […]
Shiraz vs Merlot
When it comes to red wines, understanding the differences can help you pick out wines you enjoy, like Shiraz vs. Merlot. Shiraz has a fuller body, higher tannins, dark fruits, and black pepper, while Merlot offers a medium to full body, rich berry flavors, and a smoother texture. Shiraz will be darker in your glass […]
Merlot vs Cabernet Sauvignon vs Pinot Noir
Characteristics Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Pinot Noir Hue Deep ruby red Deep ruby red Pale to medium ruby red Color Red Red Red Aromas Plum, red berries, chocolate Blackcurrant, mint, cedar Red berries, floral, earth Tannins Soft to moderate Firm Soft Acid Low to medium Medium to high Medium Alcohol (%) 13-14.5% 13.5-15% 12-15% Body Medium […]
Merlot vs Cabernet Sauvignon vs Pinot Noir vs Shiraz
Characteristics Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Pinot Noir Shiraz Hue Deep ruby red Deep ruby red Pale to medium ruby red Deep purple to black Color Red Red Red Red Aromas Plum, red berries, chocolate Blackcurrant, mint, cedar Red berries, floral, earth Blackberry, pepper, spice Tannins Soft to moderate Firm Soft Firm Acid Low to medium Medium […]
Sangiovese vs Merlot
What’s the difference between Sangiovese and Merlot? Italy’s Sangiovese boasts a medium body, biting acidity, high tannins, and crunchy cherry and herbal notes. Merlot tends to have a smoother, rounder body, softer, velvety tannins, and showcases warm plum notes. Both wines are commonly found in the price range of $10 to $20 USD. Here’s what […]
Sangiovese vs Cabernet Sauvignon
If you’re just getting into wine, you will be faced with a choice: Cabernet Sauvignon or Sangiovese? Which will you choose? Sangiovese has a medium body, high acid and tannins, and crunchy cherry and herbal notes. Cabernet Sauvignon has a heavier body, firmer tannins, black fruit, mint, and spice. Both are used in blends and […]