Red wine is one of the most beloved and revered beverages in the world. Whether enjoyed at a dinner party or sipped slowly by the fireplace, red wine has a certain allure and sophistication that sets it apart from other alcoholic beverages. But have you ever wondered how red wine is made, or what factors influence its flavor and quality? In this post, we will delve into the fascinating world of red wine production, exploring the grape varieties used, the ideal terroir, the step-by-step process of making red wine, and the impact of storage and closure methods on the wine’s taste and longevity. So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite red and join us on a journey through the complex and intricate world of red wine.
Red Grape Varieties Used in Making Red Wine
There are many different grape varieties used in the production of red wine, with the most popular being Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Zinfandel. These grapes are grown in different regions around the world, each with its unique terroir, which includes factors like soil type, climate, and topography.
The ideal terroir for red wine varies depending on the grape variety, but in general, the best regions have a warm, dry climate, with well-draining soils, and ample sunlight. Some of the most famous red wine regions in the world include Bordeaux in France, Tuscany in Italy, Napa Valley in California, and the Barossa Valley in Australia. South Africa also has several well-regarded wine regions, including Stellenbosch and Constantia.
The 5 Step Process of Making Red Wine
1. Harvesting
Grapes are picked by hand or machine, and the timing of the harvest is critical to the final flavour and quality of the wine.
2. Crushing and Destemming
The grapes are crushed to release the juice and then destemmed to remove the stems and other debris.
3. Fermentation
The juice, skins, and seeds are placed in a tank or barrel and fermented with yeast, which converts the sugar in the juice into alcohol. During fermentation, the skins and seeds give the wine its colour, tannins, and flavour.
4. Aging
After fermentation, the wine is aged in barrels or tanks to develop more complex flavours and aromas.
5. Bottling
The wine is bottled and corked or sealed with a screw cap
Glossary of Key Terms Used in How Red Wine is Made
- Tannins: Natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems that give the wine a bitter, astringent taste and help it age.
- Fermentation: The process by which yeast converts sugar in grape juice into alcohol.
- Barrel Aging: The process by which wine is aged in oak barrels to impart flavors like vanilla and spice.
- Malolactic Fermentation: A secondary fermentation process in which malic acid is converted to lactic acid, giving the wine a softer, creamier texture.
- Terroir: The unique environmental factors that influence the flavor and character of wine.
Factors influencing Red Wine Production Quality
Red Wine - Storage Mediums
Red wine can be stored in a variety of mediums, including oak barrels, stainless steel tanks, and bottles. Each storage medium has its benefits and drawbacks, and the choice depends on the winemaker’s goals and preferences.
Oak barrels can add flavors like vanilla and spice to the wine, but they are expensive and require careful maintenance to prevent spoilage. Stainless steel tanks are more affordable and easier to clean, but they do not impart any flavor to the wine. Bottles are the most common storage medium for finished wines, but they require careful handling to avoid oxidation.
Red Wine - Aging & Quality
The length of time red wine is aged depends on the grape variety, winemaker’s style, and intended market. Some wines are aged for only a few months, while others are aged for several years or even decades.
Generally, red wines improve with age, as the tannins soften and the flavors become more complex and integrated. However, not all red wines are meant for aging, and some may lose their flavor and aroma after just a few years. It’s essential to store wine properly to prevent spoilage and ensure the best possible quality over time. Proper storage conditions include keeping the wine away from light, heat, and vibrations, storing it at a consistent temperature, and keeping the bottles horizontal to keep the cork moist.
Red Wine - Cap or Cork Influence
The kind of cap or cork used for sealing the wine bottle can also influence the quality and taste of the wine. The most common types of closures for wine bottles are natural cork, synthetic cork, and screw caps.
Natural cork is the traditional choice, as it allows the wine to breathe and age properly while preventing oxygen from entering the bottle. However, natural cork can also be susceptible to mold and spoilage, which can ruin the wine.
Synthetic corks and screw caps have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are less susceptible to spoilage and provide a more consistent seal. However, some wine enthusiasts argue that these closures do not allow the wine to age properly and can affect the taste and aroma of the wine.
In conclusion, red wine production involves several steps, from grape cultivation to fermentation, aging, and bottling. The choice of grape variety, terroir, storage medium, aging length, and closure type all play a role in determining the final quality and taste of the wine. Proper storage conditions and careful handling are also crucial to ensure the wine’s longevity and maintain its desired flavor profile.
Want to Explore Our Red Wines?
There's nothing quite like a deep ruby kiss from a premium red wine. This doesn't mean you have to pay an arm and a leg. OneGrape Red Wines are quality and affordable.
Shop Red Wines