There are many different types of wine, and it can be confusing to know what each one is. In this blog post, we will discuss what is table wine.
It is usually less expensive than other types of wine, and it can be enjoyed on all occasions and with most meals.
What is Table Wine?
Table wine is a low to medium-quality wine with no more than 14% alcohol by volume.
It is basically ordinary wine meant to be consumed with a meal. Table wine can be red or white.
Table wine is not a common descriptor in everyday conversations about wine, but it describes wines that are meant for consumption with a meal, unlike sweet wines or dessert wines.
Table wines are also different than champagne, fortified wines like port, or distilled wines like cognac.
Table wine is what you typically find in the grocery store or on a restaurant wine list.
Read our related article, What is Still Wine? Learn everything you need to know about this common table wine!
The Details About Table Wine
Table wine, or vino de mesa, is a type of wine that is produced to be enjoyed with food.
Table wines are typically made from grapes grown in specific regions and are often named for the grape or region.
Table wines may also be made from other fruits or blended with other fruits, berries, or even herbs to create unique flavor profiles.
Unlike premium wines, which are often appreciated on their own and reserved for more formal occasions, table wines are typically designed to complement a particular dish or set of flavors.
This can make them ideal for casual meals, parties, and other gatherings where people may enjoy several different types of food.
In addition to making it easy to pair wines with meals, table wines also tend to be more affordable than their pricier counterparts.
Their versatility has made them extremely popular among wine lovers around the world.
Whether you’re serving up a family-style dinner or having friends over for appetizers and drinks, a bottle of table wine is sure to hit the spot!
Different Types of Table Wine
There are many types of table wine, and each has its unique flavor profile.
Red Wine
The most popular type of table wine is red wine. Red wine is made from dark-colored grapes, and it gets its color from the skins of the grapes.
The longer the skins are left in contact with the juice, the darker the color of the wine. Red wine can be fruity or dry, and it pairs well with red meats and strong cheeses.
Certain types of red wine need to be decanted or aerated to develop the full flavor and aroma.
Some types of red wine are served chilled, but most are served slightly cool or at room temperature to get the most flavor from the bottle.
Read More: Can You Make Red Wine Out of White Grapes? Sort of – but you won’t get a traditional red. Here’s what you will get!
White Wine
Another popular type of table wine is white wine. White wine is made from white or light-colored grapes, and it is usually straw colored or slightly rosy colored.
There are many different types of white wines, including chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and pinot grigio.
Each type of white wine has its distinct flavor profile, making it ideal for pairing with certain foods.
For example, chardonnay is often paired with grilled fish or chicken, while sauvignon blanc is often enjoyed with salads or sushi.
Pinot grigio, meanwhile, is a versatile white wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of different dishes.
Read More: Sauvignon Blanc Vs Pinot Grigio. Find out which wine is right for your dinner or event using our flavor profile guide!
Rosé Wine
Rosé wines are a type of table wine that is made from a blend of red and white grapes.
Rosé wines are usually light in color and have a slightly sweeter flavor than other types of table wine.
For those who enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, rosé wine can be a perfect choice.
This aromatic table wine is pleasing to the palate and pairs well with many types of lighter fare including tapas and appetizers.
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wines are also a type of table wine, but they contain carbon dioxide bubbles that make them fizzy.
Sparkling wines can be sweet or dry, and they are often served as an aperitif or with dessert.
Many people associate sparkling wine with special occasions, but it can make a great addition to any table.
For starters, sparkling wine is very versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of foods.
It also has a refreshing taste that can help to rejuvenate the palate – and, of course, the bubbles add a bit of fun and excitement to any meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just having a quiet night in, consider adding some sparkling wine to your table. Your guests are sure to appreciate it.
Read More: What Wine Goes With Sushi Rolls? We share our favorite wine pairings for your next meal!
How to Store Table Wine
First and foremost, you need to make sure that the wine is kept in a dark, cool place, away from direct sunlight or intense heat.
If you don’t have a cellar or climate-controlled basement, get a wine cooler.
If light or heat comes into contact with your bottle of wine, it can damage the flavor and quality of the wine, so it’s important to keep it safe from these elements.
Store your wine on its side in a wine rack to keep corks soft so you can remove them with a corkscrew when it’s time to enjoy.
By following these simple guidelines for storing table wine, you will be able to keep your bottles fresh and delicious longer.
Final Thoughts
Table wines are the most commonly enjoyed wines in the world. They pair perfectly with many foods and round out a delicious meal.
Red table wines pair best with heart dishes like red meat, strong cheese, barbecued meats, and acidic sauces.
White table wines pair best with white meat, seafood, fish, and charcuterie.