Wine has been the drink of choice in Europe and the Mediterranean for centuries. People drink wine for many different occasions, from religious to purely celebratory. While there are many different types of wine, types of red wine that are especially popular for many different reasons.

As is commonly known, the popular alcoholic beverage known as wine is most often created from fermented grapes, although types of fruit such as plums or blackberries are often added to wine for flavor.

For example, in the case of red wine, different types of grapes are used include Merlot, Zinfandel, and Gamay. Red wine does not get its color from the grape juices that are used, but rather via a process known as maceration. In maceration, the skin is allowed to mix in with the juice during the fermentation process.

Wine grapes require very specific climates, and thus are usually grown at the most fifty degrees north or south of the equator. Europe is the most prolific exporter of wine in the world. As of 2005, France was the leading wine exporter, followed by Italy, Spain, Australia, Chile, the United States, Portugal, and Germany.

Perhaps the most popular type of red wine is Burgundy from France. Burgundy is not only considered to be among the most flavorful types of red wine, but also is among the most expensive. Burgundy is most often made with Pinot Noir grapes.

Red Wine: A Wine of Many Uses

While types of red wine are primarily popular for their taste, they are also popular because they are a versatile drink. Red wine can be used as an appetizer drink, to cleanse the palate before eating. These types of wine also go well with dinner itself, especially red meats and foods that have been seasoned with especially flavorful herbs. Additionally, these types of wine can be flavorfully used in conjunction with desserts.

Red wine also has many religious uses. These types of wine are often used in church services to represent the blood of Christ. Additionally, it is an important part of the Jewish religion, as blessings are said over the wine is various traditions.

Whether it is for celebratory religious reasons, or simply enjoying it with food, red wine is certainly a diverse drink that can also make a lovely gift. When choosing a wine, one should also check to see that it has been aged properly, and also one must take into consideration the prices that one can afford, for once this has been accomplished; one will have an excellent bottle of red wine to savor.