Wine is one of the most well known drinks throughout human civilization. Its history can be traced as far back as nearly 6000 BC. For our purposes, we are going to keep our focus upon wines of the red grape variety. Many cultures, across countless unique regions of the world, have produced their own types of red wine. This color can come from a vast array of grape varietals, ranging from crimson to violet, and on occasion a deep blue. It is the skin of the grapes that is responsible for each red wine's unique colorful hue. During the process of fermentation, the juice of the grapes is in contact with the grapeskins, allowing both the color and tannins to disperse. The different types of red wine each have a unique color spectrum and it is dependent upon which type of grape is used during the process, and how long the juice is in contact with the pigmentation of the grapeskin.

     Different types of red wine are often categorized and spoken about in classifications; one of those main classifications being the body-type of the wine. Wines are often labeled as being a light-bodied, medium-bodied or a full-bodied wine. A light-bodied wine will have a smaller amount of tannins present, usually a smaller alcohol content and a more delicate feel in the mouth (a liquid thickness closer to the consistency of water, for instance). Most Pinot Noirs, and some Zinfandels fall into this category. A medium-bodied wine, will fall somewhere in the middle with tannins count and amount of alcohol, and it will have a more prominent feel in the mouth (a liquid thickness and consistency in between that of water and milk). This is a broad category and these types of red wine are: Chiantis, Merlots, Shirazs/Syrahs, as well as some Malbecs and Zinfandels. A full-bodied wine will have the highest tannin count of the three, usually the highest alcohol content, and will have a more heavy feel in the mouth (a liquid thickness closer to the consistency of milk). Your prime example of a full-bodied wine is Cabernet Sauvignon.

     In order to enjoy various types of red red wine you may have heard you need to give them room to "breathe". This is true as the oxygen helps to bring out the full flavors of the wine. Red wine is best served in a 10-22 ounce glass, preferably an egg or oval-shaped glass, which leaves plenty of room to swirl the liquid occasionally. It should also be noted that red wine is best served at room temperature (usually around 65 degrees) in order to enjoy the wine at it's best taste. Finally, it has also been documented that drinking a glass of red wine a day may, in fact aid your health. All types of red wine are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and resveratrol; substances that  have been shown to increase the presence of good cholesterol, lower the presence of bad cholesterol and even prevent damage to blood vessels and blood clots. Despite it's potential health benefits, alcohol should still be consumed in moderation and not abused.