Wine Tending

Wine, as a natural phase of grape spoilage, was "discovered" by accident and is not an invention of man. It is established that grape cultivation and wine drinking had started by about 4000 BC and possibly as early as 6000 BC. The first developments were around the Caspian Sea and in Mesopotamia, near present-day Iran. Texts from tombs in ancient Egypt prove that wine was in use there around 2700 to 2500 BC. Priests and royalty were using wine, while the workers drank beer. The Egyptians developed the first arbors and pruning methods. Archeological excavations have uncovered many sites with sunken jars, so the effects of temperature on stored wine were probably known.

Aperitif Wines - Aperitifs are made from both red and white wine flavored with herbs, barks, and spices. Aperitifs help promote an appetite and generally served before dinner

Popular Aperitifs: Dry Vermouth, Dubonet, Lillet, and Dry Sack.

Dessert Wines - During the fermentation process brandy is added. This stops all the grape sugar from converting into alcohol, and gives it a great sweetness. Most dessert wine is served chilled but some are served at room temperature.

Popular Dessert Wines; Harvey Bristol Cream, Sherry, Fonseca, Muscat

Sparkling Wines - Sparkling wines (such as Champagne) are made through two periods of fermentation, and are bottled before the second fermentation so that carbon dioxide gas is released and captured in the wine. This creates froth and bubbles. Sparkling wines are best served chilled.

Popular Sparkling wines: Dom Perignon, Crystal, Perrier Jouget, Moet, Cava

Distilled Wines - Distilled wines can be distilled from any kind of wine, higher in alcohol content, and aged in oak barrels. Distilled wines are known as Brandy and served at room temperatures.

Popular Distilled Wines: Martell, Hennessy, Remey Martin, and Courvoisier.

Table Wines - Table wines are served at the table with a meal, hence the name. There are three types of table wine to compliment different flavors: white wine, red wine, and blush wine.

White Wine - White wines range from very dry all the way to very sweet. Dry white wines are good with fish, fowl, and more delicate dishes. White wine is best served chilled.

Popular White Wines: Chardonnay, Chablis, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Soave

Red Wine - Red wines range from dry to soft with very strong flavors. They go best with red meat and hearty dishes. Red wine is best served at room temperature.

Popular Red Wines: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, Pinot Noir, Shiraz

Blush Wine - Blush wines range from medium to fruity and are pink in color. It goes well with light dishes and salads. Blush wine is best served chilled.