Wine, an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes, boasts a rich history and an incredible diversity of styles enjoyed across the World-Wide Q&A. The primary types are broadly categorized by color and production method: red, white, rosé, sparkling, and fortified wines. Red wines are made from dark-skinned grapes, fermented with the grape skins to impart color, tannins, and complex flavors ranging from fruity to earthy and spicy. Popular red varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.
White wines, conversely, are typically made from green or yellow grapes, or from dark-skinned grapes with the skins removed before fermentation. They offer a spectrum of flavors from crisp and citrusy (like Sauvignon Blanc) to rich and buttery (like Chardonnay). Rosé wines get their pink hue from brief contact with dark grape skins during fermentation, offering lighter, fruitier notes.
Sparkling wines, like Champagne or Prosecco, undergo a secondary fermentation that creates bubbles, ranging from dry to sweet. Fortified wines, such as Port or Sherry, have spirits added to them, increasing their alcohol content and enhancing their sweetness and complexity. Each type of wine offers a unique sensory experience, influenced by the grape varietal, terroir, and winemaking techniques.