A buddy of mine says he likes his red wines “in the style of Jennifer Lopez.” You know, what you see and sniff is what you get with this colorful, grapey and juicy quaff. Overtly fruity and vibrant, with no tannic edges, this extroverted, purple, mouth watering gem is made for immediate enjoyment. Age it in your wine cellar for later drinking? Heck no, guzzle it today, and enjoy it with simple, food—ribs, burgers, sausages, basic pasta. Serve it in tumblers or Styrofoam cups, and nobody will bat an eye. Subtleties and nuances are not part of this all time Bistro favorite. Everything is up front, right where it belongs. There are no cerebral discussions needed to appreciate this hedonistic package of pleasure.
“Gimme a Catherine Zeta-Jones Red any day,” spouts another friend of mine. Maturity, refinement, and elegance are the hallmarks of his style of red wine. Approachable and certainly enjoyable right now, this well structured, elegant Cru delivers complex, voluptuous flavors of blackcurrant, cedar and tobacco. But this world class claret, with well balanced fruit and tannins, needs a little time and understanding to soften and reveal its long term promises. When the time comes, you must pay attention because the messages are soft, gentle, and nuance-laden. Satisfying throughout its long life, this very special red wine requires the right food, the right glass, and the right crowd. Snobby? Some would say so. Ah, but for those who know…
And yet another friend insists that the “Julia Roberts Red” is the only way to go. While frequently described as a “feminine” style of wine, many men have been known to knock themselves out pursuing it elusive charms. A “sweetie,” but not in the sugar sense, this aromatic beauty offers a nifty middle ground to the two wines mentioned above. This Pretty Woman is outgoing, fragrant, and smooth tasting from the get-go. Offering more serious flavors, structure, and longevity than J-Lo, it doesn’t require Zeta-Jones’ long term commitment before you understand what it’s all about. And while it is known for its immediate, tannin-free red berry appeal, this is not a one night stand drink. Though sometimes elusive and occasionally confounding, this is the wine that you will keep going back to week after week and year after year.
So, what’s the point of all that anthropomorphic word play? Well, first of all, I’ve described three types of red wine. Each made from different grapes. With each style providing its own brand of pleasure. Recognize them? I’m suggesting, not so subtly, there’s variety out there. There are many reds and numerous whites that should be explored and enjoyed. If you’re willing to learn the major grape varieties, and their flavor profile (taste characteristics), plus a few wine vocabulary basics (wine’s structural aspects), then you’re well on your way to knowing what’s in your glass, and more importantly, why you like it.
– Tom Barras