Red vs white? Which wine should you choose?
We've all been there, staring at the wine list, wondering whether to go for red or white. What’s the difference between the two anyway (apart from the colour, of course!) and why does it matter? Let's have a chat about the wonderful world of red and white wines to help you decide which one you fancy next time you choose.
What's the difference between red and white wine?
The main difference between red and white wine is the colour. Many people believe that red wine comes from red grapes and white wine comes from white grapes, which is often true, but grape juice is actually clear. So what makes the wine a particular colour? The answer is the colour of the grapes’ skin. Red wines get their gorgeous ruby colour and much of their flavour because the deep red grape skins stay in contact with the juice during fermentation. White wines, on the other hand, are made by removing the (often) white grape skins early on, which keeps them light and bright.
Removing the skins or leaving them to soak creates two completely different types of wine. Red wines tend to be fuller, richer, and have as lightly dry feeling in your mouth. White wines are typically lighter, crisper, and more refreshing. Think of reds as a cosy jumper and whites as a cool breeze.
FUN FACT: You can make white wine from white or red grapes but can only make red wine from red grapes. Take Champagne.Champagne is made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier - two red grapes.
How to describe the taste of red and white wines in a sentence or two
Red wines often bring flavours of dark fruits like blackberries, plums, and cherries, along with hints of spice, tobacco, or even chocolate.
Compare South American reds, particularly Malbecs from Argentina, are brilliant examples. They're lush and fruity with a lovely velvety texture that feels like a warm hug. Spanish reds, especially Riojas are earthier with notes of leather and vanilla from aging in oak barrels.
White wines dance in a different direction entirely. They're all about citrus, green apples, stone fruits, and sometimes tropical notes. South African whites, particularly from regions like Stellenbosch, can be wonderfully crisp with beautiful minerality. And New Zealand whites from Marlborough are delicious! Their Sauvignon Blancs are famous worldwide for their zingy, vibrant character, with gooseberries, lime, and fresh-cut grass notes.
Should I choose red or white wine with my food?
There is a saying - "red with meat, white with fish". This isn't wrong, but it's not the whole story either. When considering whether to order red or white wine, consider all aspects of the dish and not just what sort of protein you’re eating. Is the dish creamy? Spicy? Lots of herbs, oil and Mediterranean flavours or more is it more delicately seasoned?
If you’re ordering a fresh salad or chicken then a crisp white wine will complement those flavours beautifully without overwhelming them. The wine will refresh your palate between bites.
Taste our PETAL AND STEM SAUVIGNON BLANC from Marlborough in New Zealand for a refreshingly zesty and nicely balanced wine. Goes perfectly with our range of appetisers, for example.
Going for a hearty steak, ratatouille or a creamy mustard sauce?That's when a bold red really shines. An Argentinian Malbec or a SpanishTempranillo will match the intensity of those flavours and enhance the whole experience. The wine's structure stands up to the richness of the meat.
Check out our LA VIVIENDA TEMPRANILLO from La Mancha, Spain This wine pours a deep, dark purple. On the nose, you’ll pick up notes of ripe dark fruits and a hint of spice. The taste is full of rich plum flavours, with smooth, yet firm tannins giving it structure.
But here's the thing. Chicken, pork, and pasta can genuinely go with either red or white wine. Just go with what you fancy and we promise that we’ll back you all the way whatever you choose!
Does temperature make a difference?
We’re not talking about whether it’s sunny or cold outside, but the temperature at which you drink your wine. Your server will help you with this one but it's good to know that red wines should be served slightly cool, not room temperature as many people think. Around 16-18°C is ideal. Too warm and they taste soupy and the alcohol becomes overpowering.
White wines want to be chilled, but not ice-cold. Around 8-10°C is perfect. If it's too cold, you'll miss all those lovely flavours. If your white wine arrives absolutely freezing, let it sit for a few minutes in the glass.It'll ‘open up’ beautifully as it warms slightly (this means you’ll taste all the flavours).
What else do I need to know about red vs white wine?
One of the most important questions that we ask is ‘what do you fancy?’ Are you in the mood for something refreshing or something comforting? Do you want bright and zingy or smooth and mellow? Your mood matters.
Don't be shy about asking our staff for recommendations either. We know our wine list inside out and we absolutely love helping people discover something new. Want to try something from South Africa or New Zealand but not sure where to start? Unsure about Chilean wines or a bit overawed by Argentinian options? We'll point you in the right direction.
And here's a little secret: there's no right or wrong answer. Wine is meant to be enjoyed, not worried over. If you prefer white wine with your steak or red wine with your fish, go for it! The best wine is always the one you'll actually enjoy drinking.
Pop in, have a chat, and let's find the perfect glass for you. Cheers!