What color of red wine is good wine

The quality of red wine is not directly related to the depth of color, but color can reflect the grape variety, brewing process, and aging degree. High quality red wine usually has a bright color and moderate concentration, with typical manifestations such as purple red, ruby red, pomegranate red, etc.

1. Purple Red

Young red wines often exhibit a purple red hue, commonly found in varieties made from thick skinned grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. This type of color usually has abundant tannins and rich fruit aroma, making it suitable for pairing with red meat or drinking after aging. Observing the purple reflection on the edge of the wine can determine its freshness, but it should be noted that overly bright purple may contain artificial colors.

2. Gemstone Red

High quality red wine that has been aged for a short period of time will develop into a transparent gemstone red color, such as Merlot, Pinot Noir, and other varieties. This color indicates a balanced body structure of the wine, retaining fruit aroma while developing complex flavors. The phenomenon of wine hanging in the cup when shaken can assist in determining the alcohol and sugar content.

3. Pomegranate Red

Red wine aged for more than ten years gradually turns into pomegranate red, typical examples being Barolo and Rioja aged wines. The color becomes lighter but the layers are richer, and the appearance of brick red tones at the edges is a normal phenomenon. Please note that if the wine is cloudy or appears brown, it may have been excessively oxidized.

4. Orange Red

Natural wine or orange wine may present a special orange red color, brewed from white grapes fermented with skins. This type of wine has a clear tannin texture, a nutty flavor, and the color depth is related to the soaking time. When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm whether it is due to deliberate craftsmanship rather than deterioration.

5. Peach Red

Some light bodied red wines or peach red wines have a lighter color, such as Jiamei and Gehena varieties. Light colors do not indicate poor quality, but may highlight refreshing acidity and floral and fruity aromas. Be alert to abnormally faded colors, which may be caused by water or inferior grapes.

When choosing red wine, it is recommended to make a comprehensive judgment based on transparency, color changes, and hanging status. High quality red wine should have a pure color without suspended solids, and when poured into a glass, it will show a layered change with angle. Daily storage should be kept upright in the dark, and consumed as soon as possible after opening the bottle. Before tasting, observe the width of the color band in contact between the wine and the cup wall. If it is too narrow, the wine may be thin, while if it is too wide, it may require decanting treatment. Pairing with dark wine bottles can better protect the color of the liquor.