Table wine: what is it, are they useful, what are they + how to choose

One of the numerous categories that is represented in any retail outlet is table wines.

The group includes completely different drinks united by certain characteristics.

What wines are classified as table wines

The category includes natural drinks made from grapes with a low concentration of sugar and alcohol.

Usually, such wines are produced without indicating the region of production, year of harvest and varietal composition.

Although some conscientious producers try to indicate this information.

Such drinks are designated as "natural (table) wines", in other countries the products can be recognized by the inscription "Vino da tavola" or "Vin de Table".

In the hierarchy of wines, table drinks occupy the lowest place, but this does not mean that these products are not worthy of attention.

Among table wines, you can find both mediocre cheap drinks and products of excellent quality with bright flavor characteristics.

The problem is that these properties cannot be defined in advance.

What parameters are mandatory for table wines

Drinks of this group do not have a specific manufacturing technology or belonging to a particular region.

Nevertheless, there are a number of characteristics:

1. Naturalness

   These drinks are obtained only in the process of natural fermentation of wort or pulp without the addition of alcohol and sugar.

   Usually on the label of such products you can find the inscription "natural", which is true.

2. Safety

   Despite the variability and simplicity of table wines, there are strict requirements for their production that determine the permissible level of all components, such as volatile acids, heavy metal salts, sulfuric acid, etc. д..

3. Alcohol content

   Low alcohol content (from 9 to 14%) and sugars (for dry wines: about 0.3%; for semi-dry wines: no more than 2.5%; for semi-sweet wines: no more than 8%).

Are table wines healthy

Undoubtedly, these drinks have a beneficial effect on the body.

Of course, if we are talking about good quality wines and moderate consumption.

Red dry beverages are the most beneficial.

Positive effect is expressed:

1. In the normalization of digestion.

2. Improving immunity.

3. Providing the necessary trace elements and vitamins.

4. Prevention of cardiovascular and oncological diseases.

5. Rejuvenation of all systems and organs.

6. Improving blood circulation.

7. Removal of toxins, etc. д.

What are the types of table wines

There are several varieties of these drinks.

They are distinguished by the level of sugar content:

1. Dry (0-0.3%).

2. Semi-dry (1-2%).

3. Semi-sweet (3-8%).

Dry beverages are produced as a result of a full fermentation cycle, semi-dry and semi-sweet beverages - a partial one.

By color:

1. Red (obtained by fermenting dark fruits together with the skin and seeds).

2. White (produced from light grape varieties without using pulp).

3. Rosé (made by blending two types of wines or mixing raw materials of different colors).

A separate category includes wines produced using Kakhetian technology (white and red).

By the method of production:

1. Varietal (one type of grape is used).

2. Blended (several varieties are taken as raw materials).

Depending on the aging:

1. Ordinary (aged up to 1 year).

2. Vintage (from 1.5 years and more).

It is worth remembering that fortified, sparkling and flavored wines are not suitable for dining rooms, as well as special collectible items with a long aging period.

How to choose a table wine

1. You should focus on the manufacturer

   There are proven brands that are characterized by an optimal price-quality ratio.

   If in doubt, it is better to study consumer reviews or opt for red dry wine, which is considered more useful and is rarely faked.

2. Do not buy very cheap drinks

   Even with a natural composition, such products will not bring pleasure and will not bring much benefit.

   It is better to refuse to buy wines in cardboard packaging: it usually indicates low quality, but there are exceptions.

3. The label must contain information about the manufacturer

   As well as the product category, amount of sugar and strength.

   When looking for a good vintage wine, make sure that the bottle cap indicates the year of release.

4. It is worth paying attention to the cork

   It is good if it is made of cork and has a manufacturer's stamp.

   Do not assume that an old, darkened cork indicates aging: it usually indicates a low quality of the drink.

5. Country of production

   Good table wines can be found among the products of Georgian, Abkhazian, Armenian, French, Italian, Moldovan and some other producers.

How to drink table wines

This category of drinks got its name because of its unpretentiousness in the selection of dishes.

Table wine does not require any special culinary delights.

Wine is a good complement to ordinary appetizers or a worthy aperitif.

Compatibility depends only on the category of the drink:

1. Red wine can be served with meat dishes, soups and pates, while white wine is in perfect harmony with fish, poultry and cheeses.

2. Light drinks should be pre-cooled, for dark drinks room temperature is optimal.

It is worth considering the manufacturer's recommendations, which are often indicated on the label.

Update: 08.10.2018

Category: Wine and Vermouth