Even the uninitiated know that red wine is served with red meat, and white wine with fish. But is it really that simple? And what do we serve with the rest? Here are some tips to help you choose a red wine or a white wine according to your tastes and the dish you want to accompany, for a perfect food and wine pairing.
Red wine and white wine: what's the difference?
The major difference between a red wine and a white wine lies in the choice of grapes used for winemaking. White wine is thus made from white grape varieties (Chardonnay, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, etc.), and red wine from red grape varieties (Grenache, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, etc.). However, it is sometimes possible to make white wine from white grape varieties, as is the case with Champagne, made with Pinot Noir.
However, the wine-making technique is also important in differentiating a white wine from a red wine .
Red wine is thus made with red grapes which ferment with the seeds, flesh, skin and stems. The pigments from the grape skin are thus transferred into the juice during maceration, which gives this characteristic red color to the wine.
For white wine, the skins, stems and seeds are removed before fermentation, which allows the juice to retain its more or less pale yellow color.
In the glass, red wine contains tannins and resveratrol, unlike white wine, which does not.
Red wine and white wine: the benefits for the body
It is often said that wine should be consumed in moderation. However, it would be a shame to deny yourself a small glass of wine from time to time, as the benefits are so numerous.
The benefits of red wine
Red wines are rich in tannins , polyphenols and flavonoids. These components have interesting properties to fight against cardiovascular diseases , but also against psychological illnesses , such as depression. The characteristics of red wines also prevent cell slowing and excess weight, and contribute to good eye health.
Finally, red wine, consumed in moderation, also has benefits for fighting diabetes and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Moderate and regular consumption of red wine is therefore good for health and extends life expectancy.
The benefits of white wine
Although white wine is the subject of fewer studies than red wine, many researchers have nevertheless been able to demonstrate the virtues of white wine , consumed in moderation.
- Improvement of metabolic and cardiovascular functions: white wine improves the control of glucose and lipids in the body, thus having a role against diabetes . Furthermore, white wine has an anti-inflammatory and cardio-protective role, since it repairs the cells that line the blood vessels;
- Improved lung function: the antioxidants present in white wine protect against cellular aging and improve lung function much more significantly than red wine;
- Reduction of risks of kidney disease: the caffeic acid contained in white wine is an antioxidant that protects kidney tissues from oxidative stress;
- Protection against cognitive decline: polyphenols in white wine reduce the risk of cognitive diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease.
The characteristics of red wines from Provence
Red wines from Provence represent 4% of wine production in this wine-growing region of France. They are nevertheless of very good quality, and the winegrowers offer a wide variety of wines .
The AOC Côtes de Provence red wine thus offers a pretty garnet color, which takes on mauve highlights with aging. Its nose is complex, distinctive, distinguished and fine, with aromas of red fruits (raspberry, redcurrant and strawberry) or notes of black fruits (blackcurrant), scrubland, bay leaf, thyme and spices, depending on the region. of production and the grape variety used (syrah, grenache, cinsault, tibouren, mourvèdre, etc.).
When tasting, Provençal red wine is light, but it can also be powerful, with very present tannins.
The characteristics of white wines from Provence
The white wines of Provence are made from Sémillon, Rolle (or Vermentino), Ugni Blanc, and Clairette. Also representing 4% of wine production in Provence, Provençal white wine is intended to be fine and subtle, with a pretty pale and yellow color, with green reflections.
On the nose, we perceive refreshing and invigorating citrus aromas (lemon, grapefruit), but also notes of pine, spices and thyme.
On the palate, Provençal white wines are supple, structured and generous, with a nice balance between alcohol, aromas and acidity.
Food and red wine pairings from Provence
The risk with red wine is that it takes over the food and erases the taste. It is therefore a question of finding the perfect balance for a successful food and wine pairing .
Here, to help you, are some perfect pairings between a red wine from Provence and a dish.
- Le Pigeonnier – domaine de Berne – AOP Côtes de Provence: a harmonious and structured red wine which goes wonderfully with characterful cheeses or cooked meats (stews, beef cheeks, etc.);
- La Grande Cuvée – Château de Berne – AOC Côtes de Provence: a red wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, with aromas of black fruits that perfectly accompany grilled meats and cheeses;
- Château des Bertrands – AOP Côtes de Provence red: a red typical of the Mediterranean terroir, with a beautiful aromatic structure to highlight beef.
Food and white wine pairings from Provence
White Côtes de Provence is an easy wine to drink, since it can be served as an aperitif, starter, main course or dessert, and even with cheese. Discover the food and white wine pairings from Provence that we offer.
- Château des Bertrands – AOP Côtes de Provence white: with its notes of white-fleshed fruits and exotic fruits, this white wine goes deliciously with grilled fish, goat’s cheese, and even cold meats;
- Le Pigeonnier – domaine de Berne - AOC Côtes de Provence white: with its minerality and citrus flavors, this wine received the gold medal in the Provence wine competition. It works wonders when served with a noble fish, such as sea bass, or when offered as an aperitif;
- Terres de Berne – domaine de Berne - AOP Côtes de Provence white: the aromas of pear and lemon make this white wine from Provence the ideal companion for fish of all kinds (sea bass, sea bream, etc.), or Provençal dishes.
Vintages of red wines and white wines of Provence
To guide you in choosing a white wine or a red wine from Provence , you can rely on the vintages.
- Very great red vintages: 1989, 1998, 2001;
- Great red vintages: 1983, 1984, 1985, 1988, 1995, 2006, 2007, 2009.
In terms of white wines from Provence, the year 1998 was particularly exceptional. Other vintages are also very interesting:
- Very great white vintages: 1988;
- Great white vintages: 1983, 1986, 2006, 2009.
How to choose between a red wine and a white wine ? Ultimately, it depends on many criteria (food and wine pairings, and consumer taste), and no answer can be firm and definitive. The best thing is to please yourself and taste the best wines of Provence .
