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During the production process, the wine producer allows the pressed grape juice, called must, to macerate and ferment with the dark grape skins. This adds a colour, flavour and tannin to the wine. The appearance of alcohol occurs when yeast converts the sugars from the grapes into ethanol and carbon dioxide.

There are eight types of red wine:

1. Cabernet Sauvignon

This is a popular type of wine as the grape is the most commonly planted in the world. If you find yourself in a situation where you do not know what wine to order, this is a safe bet. You should drink this with any type of meat but is extra delicious with a burger or lamb. 

2. Merlot

For someone who is just beginning to venture into wine, a merlot is an easy to drink wine. Fruity and delicious, the red wine food to go with merlot is a poultry dish.

3. Zinfandel

Zinfandel is interesting because the taste varies based on where it is grown. It goes nicely with meat like pork ribs or pizza and pasta dishes and has a high alcohol content.

4. Syrah or Shiraz

In France and other European countries, it is called Syrah and in other parts of the world, it is called Shiraz. Flavours are peppery, spicy, bold and fruity.

5. Malbec

Originating from France, it is not mainly produced in Argentina. Easy to drink, it is one of the best red wines due to its flavour of plum or cherry with a smoky ending.

6. Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the lightest of red wines. As a light red wine, it feels silky to the tongue and you will be able to taste bright berries.

7. Sangiovese

Sangiovese is associated with Chianti, Tuscany and is the biggest red grape in Italy. The flavours do wonders in your mouth! You will be able to taste tobacco, soil and pepper.

8. Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo has strong tannins and a lot of acid. Grown in northern Italy, the flavours of this good red wine only gets better as it ages. Splurge and buy a bottle or two then save it for a special occasion.

You may also be wondering about the caloric content. How many calories in a glass of red wine? Well it ranges from 85 to 100 calories. It is, however, well worth a glass due to the benefits of red wine which includes keeping the heart healthy, lowering bad cholesterol, regulates blood sugar and others.

All red wines are best drunk from a red wine glass. So raise your glasses and enjoy a bottle or a glass with your spouse over a hearty meal. Your body will thank you for it.