Wine Types Explained

posted by admin on 2009.04.27, under Food and Beverage
27:

One of the most popular and important beverages in the world is wine. It has an important role in ceremonies, rituals, events and celebrations.

Worldwide culture, society, geographical conditions and other unique factors allowed countries to make their own kinds of wine. As a result, a lot of wine varieties have emerged from all over the world. However, all these wines are classified into a handful of styles.

One of the most common styles of wine is white wine. This is basically fermented grape juice, the main component of wine. The liquid is not white but clear in appearance. The flavors, textures and aromas of white wine will depend upon the appellation, the type of grapes, the vintage and the wine making styles of the winemaker.

Another common wine style is red wine. Just like white whine, red wine is made out of fermented grape juice. However, the presence of grape skin makes the wine red in color. This is done through a process called maceration. In this process, the skin is left in contact with the grape juice during fermentation.

Another example of wine style is blush wine, commonly known as rose wine. Blush wine is produced by removing the skins of the grapes halfway through fermentation. It can also be done by blending red wines and white wines. Finally, blush wines can be produced by concentrating the liquid that is removed during the fermentation process.

Table wine is another wine style. It is a type of wine that is served during meals. Depending on their color, table wines are classified as white, red or rose. The alcohol content in table wines is very low, no higher than 14% in the US. In Europe, table wine is considered as a light wine and considered cheap. In fact, a table wine’s label does not include information about what grape variety was used or in what region was it produced.

Another wine style is sparkling wine. Sparkling wines, most notably champagnes, have carbon dioxide that is produced naturally from fermentation or force injected. This results in a fizzy, bubbly drink. Sparkling wines are fermented twice, first in an open container to allow carbon dioxide to escape into the air. Then it is fermented a second time in a sealed container so that the gas remains in the wine.

Dessert wines are another wine style. These kinds of wines are sweet and can are usually drunk after meals in place of desserts. These wines contain between 50 to 400 grams of sugar per liter of wine.

Lastly, fortified wines are sweeter and more alcoholic than other wines. Their fermentation process is halted with the addition of a spirit, such as a brandy. Or the additional spirit may be added after fermentation.

Milos Pesic is and internationally recognized expert on wine, wine making and wine tasting. He runs a highly popular and comprehensive Red Wine and White Wine web site. For more articles and resources on wine making and tasting, wine recipes, wine reviews, vintage wine and much more visit his site at:

=>http://wine.need-to-know.net/

Milos Pesic - EzineArticles Expert Author

Coffee Flavors

posted by admin on 2009.04.27, under Food and Beverage
27:

A Twist to Coffee Drinking

Nowadays, coffee beverages already have a number of variants dedicated to differences in taste, aroma and texture that most coffee drinkers are already used to seeing new names on menus in coffee houses. A lot of flavors indicate more traditional tastes while others are experimental and more intense to the senses. But what if one wants a change of coffee flavor while brewing a pot at home? Would it take another brewing period to change the flavor according to one’s specifications? This is where flavored coffee syrups come into the picture. They give a new whole character into every cup that would certainly entice those who are looking for another way of preparing their choice of drink.

These flavored coffee syrups come from a variety of sources may they be from nuts, berries, and other fruits that can add that extra “something” to every cup.

Flavored Choices

Some prefer their flavored coffee syrups added in generous amounts, while others want them just a teensy bit for a little twist of flavor in their palates. These are the usual types preferred:

1. Chocolate - gives the coffee drink a much sweeter and rich flavor. It blends well with the aroma of the coffee, making it an enticing drink for those who appreciate a fragrant beverage.

2. Cinnamon - this produces a sweet and tangy flavor that leaves a bit of its spiciness on the tongue. It has this smooth kick that really heightens one’s sense of smell. It is a perfect combination for those wanting an extra jolt to their caffeine fix.

3. Nutmeg - as the name suggests, it has a nutty flavor that is crisp and delectable. It adds texture to the coffee and leaves the drinker to slowly appreciate the newness of its blend on the taste buds. It is indeed a pleasant surprise.

4. Vanilla - a popular choice since it is a powerhouse of a rich and delectable flavor by itself. When added to a cup of coffee, it doubles the richness and the body of the drink, leaving one to really appreciate the different notes that roll off his tongue upon imbibing it.

5. Fruit juices - these were not even considered to be fit for pairing up with a coffee beverage before. But this is now gaining popularity as there are already a bevy of quality-made fruit syrups that are really a delight to be taken in. Cherries, grapes and even mangoes are the choices among others.

This is good news indeed for the curious and adventurous types who don’t dwell on just one traditional approach to their coffee-drinking experience. To truly appreciate flavored coffee syrups, it takes one to give it a try again and again.

Dr. Mark Clayson - EzineArticles Expert Author

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