If you are looking for a gift, we recommend the various tasting boxes from our gift service, for example, or a gift voucher, which gives the recipient a free choice in our online shop.<\/p>\n\n
The most important facts at a glance<\/h2>\n\n\n- Red wine currently accounts for around 43% of total wine production worldwide (compared to 49% for white wine). The most widely cultivated grape varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon (290,000 ha), followed by Merlot (267,000 ha) and Tempranillo (232,500 ha). Syrah, Garnacha Tinta and Pinot Noir complete the top six red grape varieties. It is pleasing to note that all six varieties are grape varieties that are not cultivated for the mass production of wines. This is seen as a clear indication that quality awareness is increasing among both consumers and producers. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- In Switzerland, red grape varieties predominate in viticulture. Pinot Noir (also known as Blauburgunder) is in first place, and although it is cultivated in all Swiss wine-growing regions, it finds ideal terroir in Valais and Graub\u00fcnden in particular. Close on the heels of Pinot Noir are the Gamay and Merlot grape varieties. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A good glass of red wine is said to achieve what many other things cannot: it creates emotions. Hardly any other drink is said to have such a sensual and romantic effect as red wine. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Origin, provenance and significance of red wines<\/h2>\n\n
Probably the oldest pressing plant for wine, and therefore also for red wine, was found near Damascus. It is 8,000 years old. Somewhat younger are finds from Iran and Mesopotamia, which date back to around 5,000 BC. <\/p>\n\n
In ancient times, red wine was not only known and widely used as a drink, but also as a remedy. For example, red wine was prescribed by Hippocrates as a remedy for cardiovascular disorders. <\/p>\n\n![\"Glass](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_als_heilmittel-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThere are also finds in Switzerland that testify to the existence of wine long before our time. Grape seeds from the Neolithic period (3,000 to 1,800 BC) were found during excavations in Saint Blaise on Lake Neuch\u00e2tel. However, red wine became widespread in Switzerland with the settlement of the Romans. <\/p>\n\n
The popularity of red wine in Switzerland is unbroken. Every year, around 1.2 million hectoliters of wine are produced from 21 different red wine varieties on 15,000 hectares. <\/p>\n\n![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_und_weisswein_beliebt-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nHow good are red wines for your health?<\/h2>\n\n
As a general rule, red wines, like all other alcoholic beverages, should only be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption of red wines is permanently detrimental to human health. Despite this, red berries have been proven to contain substances that have a preventative and health-promoting effect on the human body. <\/p>\n\n![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_und_gesundheit-1024x577.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nIn particular, it is the comparatively high polyphenol content (also known as tannins in the wine world) that reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke, as the so-called resveratrol activates a messenger substance in the body that protects the blood vessels from calcification. In addition, these substances found in the red berries help to prevent cancer, dementia and kidney disease. It is not for nothing that the Latin proverb “In vino veritas” (The truth is in the wine) was changed to “In vino sanitas” (Health is in the wine). <\/p>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_in_vino_sanitas.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhere do the best red wines come from?<\/h2>\n\n
When you think of red wines, Bordeaux and Burgundy quickly come to mind. The two French wine-growing regions with their characteristic ch\u00e2teaux have achieved worldwide fame since the second half of the 20th century thanks to their quality and, not least, clever marketing. But what applies to other sectors also applies, and even more so, to viticulture – the competition never sleeps. <\/p>\n\n![\"Origin](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_herkunft_wallis-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nTop red wines from overseas, Italy or Spain are in no way inferior to the great French chateau growths. And this also applies to Switzerland, where outstanding Swiss red wines<\/a> are conjured up in the bottle. Small (in comparison to the net area under cultivation) but big, the passionate winegrowers of the Swiss Confederation have been making a name for themselves internationally for two decades. The red wines of Diego Mathier from Valais, for example, have repeatedly swept the entire world competition off their feet at the biggest international wine awards. <\/p>\n\n![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_top_rotwein_mathier-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe successful winemaker’s multi-award-winning Ambassadeur de Diego Mathier AOC Valais from Burgundy, the Pinot Noir, also came out well ahead of the Burgundian ch\u00e2teau competition in blind tastings and was awarded the world champion title of Gran Maestro du Pinot as the best red wine.<\/p>\n\n![\"Bottle](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/rotwein_ambassadeur_rot_mit_weinglas-1024x577.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nSelected important red wine grape varieties<\/h2>\n\nCabernet Sauvignon<\/h3>\n\n
It is considered the king of red wines. Not only because it is the most widely cultivated red wine grape variety in the world. The wine made from these grapes is also very popular, as the variety produces a wine that is strong, full-bodied and dry in taste. Due to its strong tannins and acidity, a longer maturation period is necessary. <\/p>\n\n
Merlot<\/h3>\n\n
Merlot red wines are known for their aroma profile of plums, (black) cherries and dark berries such as blackberries. Merlot wines are often very velvety with a low tannin content. Soft on the palate and with a medium to full body, these wines have a relatively low acidity. <\/p>\n\n
Pinot Noir<\/h3>\n\n
This classic from Valais is one of the best-known and most sought-after grapes in the world. It impresses with its fine texture and aromas of cherries, strawberries and ripe fruit. It comes in a variety of flavors and prices. <\/p>\n\n![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_geschmacksrichtungen-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nSwitzerland and its red wines<\/h2>\n\n
Red wine is grown in all Swiss wine-growing regions (Valais, Vaud, Ticino, German-speaking Switzerland, Neuch\u00e2tel and the Three Lakes region as well as in the Lake Geneva area). No fewer than 21 red wine varieties are grown in Switzerland, including some rarities: Ancelotta, Barbera, Bondola, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Jura, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carminoir, Cornalin, Diolinoir, Divico, Dunkelfelder, Galotta, Gamret, Gamay, Garanoir, Gew\u00fcrztraminer, Humagne rouge, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir and Syrah. <\/p>\n\n
Pinot noir dominates the Swiss growing regions as a red wine<\/h3>\n\n
The canton of Valais is the largest Swiss wine region with over 5,000 hectares of vineyards. The region produces many Grand Cru quality wines, especially Pinot Noir. The Pinot Mondial competition in Sierre is dedicated exclusively to this variety. With his Ambassadeur de Diego Mathier rouge AOC Valais, Diego Mathier has not only won over 20 gold medals at this competition, but also the world championship title of Gran Maestro du Pinot. <\/p>\n\n![\"Pinot](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_pinot_weintraube-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nOur top recommendations for red wine lovers<\/h3>\n\n\n- Ambassadeur de Diego Mathier red AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cuv\u00e9e Madame Rosmarie Mathier red AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Winery Moritz Nix Zweigelt organic, 75 cl<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Merlot Nadia Mathier AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Syrah Diego Mathier AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cornalin Adrian Mathier AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tenute San Sisto Rutilus Marche Rosso IGT, 75 cl<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pinot Noir de Salquenen R\u00e9serve de la famille AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Humagne rouge Les Pyramides AOC Valais, 75 cl<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
![\"Selection](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_stuebli_auswahl-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nHow is red wine produced?<\/h2>\n\n
The most widespread method for producing red wines<\/a> is the so-called mash fermentation. Mash refers to the mixture of must, berry skins and seeds. When the liquid comes into contact with the pressed, crushed berries and grape skins, a maximum amount of the red colorant is released into the grape juice thanks to the alcohol that is released. <\/p>\n\n![\"Mash](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_maischegaerung-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe red wine is produced by fermenting the mash for two to three weeks at a temperature of 22 to 29 degrees and allowing the yeasts to convert the sugar into alcohol. As soon as fermentation is complete, the red wine is matured in the cellar. Maturation means that the red wine undergoes a maturing process of varying lengths. This depends on the grape variety, the quality and also whether the wine is matured in barriques or stainless steel tanks, and can take up to several years. <\/p>\n\n![\"Barrique](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_barriqueausbau_weinkeller-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhat are dry red wines?<\/h2>\n\n
Dry red wines are red wines in which most or even all of the sugar content has been fermented from the grapes. These red wines generally have a lower alcohol content than sweeter or semi-sweet red wines and are therefore more palatable. The maximum residual sugar content of dry red wines is 4 g per liter. <\/p>\n\n
Red wines with a maximum residual sugar content of 9 grams per liter are considered an exception. If these wines only have a maximum acidity of 2 grams per liter, they may still be described as “dry”. <\/p>\n\n![\"Several](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_mehrere_rotweinglaeser-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhat are the different types of red wine?<\/h2>\n\n
Of the estimated 10,000 grape varieties worldwide, 2,500 are also used for viticulture. However, around 100 varieties dominate viticulture. In terms of area, the Carignan, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah varieties lead the list of red wine varieties. Each of these varieties brings its own unique flavor to the final red wine. <\/p>\n\n![\"Different](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_verschiedene_rebsorten-1024x575.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nIn Switzerland, the three leading red wine varieties are Pinot Noir (28%), Gamay (9%) and Merlot (8%). The same order of the most frequently cultivated red wine varieties applies to Valais, Switzerland’s largest wine-growing canton, where very good wines are also made from Cabernet Sauvginon, Humagne rouge, Gamaret, Cornalin and Cabernet Sauvignon. <\/p>\n\n
What do red wines taste like?<\/h2>\n\n
The range of flavors of this type of wine is significantly broader than that of white wine. On the one hand, this is because the grape varieties of red wines in the different wine-growing regions taste even more differentiated than white wine grapes. On the other hand, it is also due to the fact that different grape varieties are often married together in red wines, creating new worlds of taste. <\/p>\n\n![\"Taste](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_geschmackspalette-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nLast but not least, when producing wines from red grape varieties, the mash fermentation alone, but also the possible subsequent ageing in wooden barrels, can have a much greater influence on the taste. Typical flavors of red berry wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes include aromas of cassis, cedar wood, black pepper, clove and eucalyptus. <\/p>\n\n![\"Oak](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_eichenweinfass-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe Pinot Noir grape is said to have flavors of raspberry, cherry jam, plum and clove, and Syrah often has red wine flavors of blackcurrant, truffle, aged meat and violet. However, these are only the primary nuances of flavor. <\/p>\n\n![\"Wine](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_weinglas_mit_trueffel_schwarzbeeren-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe taste is also influenced by the winemaking process and subsequent storage. This is also referred to as secondary and tertiary aromas. Here, the winemaker and cellar master have much greater scope to influence the taste of the final wine. <\/p>\n\n
How do I recognize a good red wine?<\/h2>\n\n
A good red wine is judged according to the same criteria as a white wine: Color, aroma, structure and taste. And, of course, the vintage and origin of the red wine or its grapes also say something about the quality of the red wine. If the color of the red wine is clear and free of turbidity, and the wine has a range of aromas typical of red wines, this is the first indication of a good red wine. <\/p>\n\n![\"Structure,](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_struktur_duft_geschmack-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAs with white wine, the structure of a red wine must score points with its texture, body and length of finish. Compared to a white wine, however, a good red wine also depends on how well it combines the ingredients fruit, acidity and alcohol in a balanced way. <\/p>\n\n![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_weinglaeser_auf_holztisch-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhat is red wine called in the French and Italian parts of Switzerland?<\/h2>\n\n
Red wine is called vin rouge in French-speaking Switzerland and vino rosso in Ticino. The term vin de pays suisse is also used for Swiss wines that are not produced from vineyards in a specific growing region. <\/p>\n\n![\"Vino](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_vino_rosso-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhat do the AOC, DOC and DOCG designations of origin mean for wines?<\/h2>\n\n
AOC, DOC and DOCG are important designations of origin for wine. AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contr\u00f4l\u00e9e) originates from France and guarantees the origin and quality of a wine. DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) is Italy’s equivalent, which sets strict production standards. The highest designation is DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), which guarantees the highest quality in addition to origin. These designations serve as a seal of quality and a guide for wine connoisseurs to recognize and enjoy outstanding wines from certain wine regions. <\/p>\n\n![\"Designations](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_herkunftsbezeichnungen-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nHow do I store red wine correctly?<\/h2>\n\n
Improper storage can cause the wine to oxidize and lose its taste. Red wine should always be stored in a cool, dark place. It is not important whether the bottles are standing or lying down, as 99% of all wines worldwide are bottled ready to drink. It is more important that the bottles are not unnecessarily exposed to light and heat, as these are the biggest enemies of wine in bottles. <\/p>\n\n![\"Storing](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_weinregal_lagerung-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nClose the open bottle airtight and also store the open bottle in a cool, dark place – preferably in the fridge – and enjoy the red wine within the next three to four days.<\/p>\n\n![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_schrank-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nRed wine and food<\/h2>\n\n
Light, fruity wines without ageing in barriques go particularly well with light dishes. Full-bodied red wines, on the other hand, are strong in character and correspondingly powerful wines, usually matured in wooden barrels. They require correspondingly stronger dishes. With this general rule, you are never completely wrong when shopping. <\/p>\n\n
Which wine for which meal<\/h3>\n\n
If you would like more detailed information on which white wines, ros\u00e9 wines and, of course, red wines go well with which dishes, we recommend reading the various detailed articles on the Mathier wine blog:<\/p>\n\n
\n- Article: “Which wine for which meal”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine to serve as an aperitif”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine for BBQ”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine to pair with cheese”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine to pair with cheese fondue”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “The right wine for game”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine to pair with lamb”<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Article: “Which wine to pair with beef”<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
In the Mathier blog, you can use the filter to find more articles on the subject of food pairing, i.e. which wine goes with which food.<\/p>\n\n![\"Red](\"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/rotwein_essen_mit_flasche_und_glaeser-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n
\n\nInteresting facts about red wine<\/h3>\n\n
Here is an overview of important facts about red wine<\/p>\n\n
Is red wine healthy or not?<\/h4>\n\n
With its beneficial ingredients, red wine can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, excessive consumption is detrimental to health, so that medical institutions such as the American Heart Association recommend that men should not drink more than two glasses of red wine a day. <\/p>\n\n
What are the best red wines?<\/h4>\n\n
The assessment of which red wines are the best is very individual and depends largely on taste. These wines are traded very highly around the world: <\/p>\n\n
\n- Ch\u00e2teau Latour from Bordeaux (France)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Vega Sicilia from Ribera del Duero (Spain)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ch\u00e2teau Haut-Brion from Bordeaux (France)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ch\u00e2teau Margaux from Bordeaux (France)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ch\u00e2teau Mouton-Rothschild from Bordeaux (France)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Penfolds – Grange Bin 95 Shiraz (Australia)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
Is red wine good for blood pressure?<\/h4>\n\n
Red wine is known to lower blood pressure and increase the level of good cholesterol in the body. Spanish scientists have studied and proven that red wine grapes, e.g. the Tempranillo variety, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels more than other sources of fiber such as oats. <\/p>\n\n
Is red wine good for the heart?<\/h4>\n\n
Unlike white wine, red wine contains resveratrol. Researchers have discovered in various studies that resveratrol activates a messenger substance in the body that protects blood vessels from calcification, making heart attacks less likely. <\/p>\n\n
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Origin, provenance and significance of red wines<\/h2>\n\n
Probably the oldest pressing plant for wine, and therefore also for red wine, was found near Damascus. It is 8,000 years old. Somewhat younger are finds from Iran and Mesopotamia, which date back to around 5,000 BC. <\/p>\n\n
In ancient times, red wine was not only known and widely used as a drink, but also as a remedy. For example, red wine was prescribed by Hippocrates as a remedy for cardiovascular disorders. <\/p>\n\n There are also finds in Switzerland that testify to the existence of wine long before our time. Grape seeds from the Neolithic period (3,000 to 1,800 BC) were found during excavations in Saint Blaise on Lake Neuch\u00e2tel. However, red wine became widespread in Switzerland with the settlement of the Romans. <\/p>\n\n The popularity of red wine in Switzerland is unbroken. Every year, around 1.2 million hectoliters of wine are produced from 21 different red wine varieties on 15,000 hectares. <\/p>\n\n As a general rule, red wines, like all other alcoholic beverages, should only be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption of red wines is permanently detrimental to human health. Despite this, red berries have been proven to contain substances that have a preventative and health-promoting effect on the human body. <\/p>\n\n In particular, it is the comparatively high polyphenol content (also known as tannins in the wine world) that reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke, as the so-called resveratrol activates a messenger substance in the body that protects the blood vessels from calcification. In addition, these substances found in the red berries help to prevent cancer, dementia and kidney disease. It is not for nothing that the Latin proverb “In vino veritas” (The truth is in the wine) was changed to “In vino sanitas” (Health is in the wine). <\/p>\n\n When you think of red wines, Bordeaux and Burgundy quickly come to mind. The two French wine-growing regions with their characteristic ch\u00e2teaux have achieved worldwide fame since the second half of the 20th century thanks to their quality and, not least, clever marketing. But what applies to other sectors also applies, and even more so, to viticulture – the competition never sleeps. <\/p>\n\n Top red wines from overseas, Italy or Spain are in no way inferior to the great French chateau growths. And this also applies to Switzerland, where outstanding Swiss red wines<\/a> are conjured up in the bottle. Small (in comparison to the net area under cultivation) but big, the passionate winegrowers of the Swiss Confederation have been making a name for themselves internationally for two decades. The red wines of Diego Mathier from Valais, for example, have repeatedly swept the entire world competition off their feet at the biggest international wine awards. <\/p>\n\n The successful winemaker’s multi-award-winning Ambassadeur de Diego Mathier AOC Valais from Burgundy, the Pinot Noir, also came out well ahead of the Burgundian ch\u00e2teau competition in blind tastings and was awarded the world champion title of Gran Maestro du Pinot as the best red wine.<\/p>\n\n It is considered the king of red wines. Not only because it is the most widely cultivated red wine grape variety in the world. The wine made from these grapes is also very popular, as the variety produces a wine that is strong, full-bodied and dry in taste. Due to its strong tannins and acidity, a longer maturation period is necessary. <\/p>\n\n Merlot red wines are known for their aroma profile of plums, (black) cherries and dark berries such as blackberries. Merlot wines are often very velvety with a low tannin content. Soft on the palate and with a medium to full body, these wines have a relatively low acidity. <\/p>\n\n This classic from Valais is one of the best-known and most sought-after grapes in the world. It impresses with its fine texture and aromas of cherries, strawberries and ripe fruit. It comes in a variety of flavors and prices. <\/p>\n\n Red wine is grown in all Swiss wine-growing regions (Valais, Vaud, Ticino, German-speaking Switzerland, Neuch\u00e2tel and the Three Lakes region as well as in the Lake Geneva area). No fewer than 21 red wine varieties are grown in Switzerland, including some rarities: Ancelotta, Barbera, Bondola, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Jura, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carminoir, Cornalin, Diolinoir, Divico, Dunkelfelder, Galotta, Gamret, Gamay, Garanoir, Gew\u00fcrztraminer, Humagne rouge, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir and Syrah. <\/p>\n\n The canton of Valais is the largest Swiss wine region with over 5,000 hectares of vineyards. The region produces many Grand Cru quality wines, especially Pinot Noir. The Pinot Mondial competition in Sierre is dedicated exclusively to this variety. With his Ambassadeur de Diego Mathier rouge AOC Valais, Diego Mathier has not only won over 20 gold medals at this competition, but also the world championship title of Gran Maestro du Pinot. <\/p>\n\n The most widespread method for producing red wines<\/a> is the so-called mash fermentation. Mash refers to the mixture of must, berry skins and seeds. When the liquid comes into contact with the pressed, crushed berries and grape skins, a maximum amount of the red colorant is released into the grape juice thanks to the alcohol that is released. <\/p>\n\n The red wine is produced by fermenting the mash for two to three weeks at a temperature of 22 to 29 degrees and allowing the yeasts to convert the sugar into alcohol. As soon as fermentation is complete, the red wine is matured in the cellar. Maturation means that the red wine undergoes a maturing process of varying lengths. This depends on the grape variety, the quality and also whether the wine is matured in barriques or stainless steel tanks, and can take up to several years. <\/p>\n\n Dry red wines are red wines in which most or even all of the sugar content has been fermented from the grapes. These red wines generally have a lower alcohol content than sweeter or semi-sweet red wines and are therefore more palatable. The maximum residual sugar content of dry red wines is 4 g per liter. <\/p>\n\n Red wines with a maximum residual sugar content of 9 grams per liter are considered an exception. If these wines only have a maximum acidity of 2 grams per liter, they may still be described as “dry”. <\/p>\n\n Of the estimated 10,000 grape varieties worldwide, 2,500 are also used for viticulture. However, around 100 varieties dominate viticulture. In terms of area, the Carignan, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah varieties lead the list of red wine varieties. Each of these varieties brings its own unique flavor to the final red wine. <\/p>\n\n In Switzerland, the three leading red wine varieties are Pinot Noir (28%), Gamay (9%) and Merlot (8%). The same order of the most frequently cultivated red wine varieties applies to Valais, Switzerland’s largest wine-growing canton, where very good wines are also made from Cabernet Sauvginon, Humagne rouge, Gamaret, Cornalin and Cabernet Sauvignon. <\/p>\n\n The range of flavors of this type of wine is significantly broader than that of white wine. On the one hand, this is because the grape varieties of red wines in the different wine-growing regions taste even more differentiated than white wine grapes. On the other hand, it is also due to the fact that different grape varieties are often married together in red wines, creating new worlds of taste. <\/p>\n\n Last but not least, when producing wines from red grape varieties, the mash fermentation alone, but also the possible subsequent ageing in wooden barrels, can have a much greater influence on the taste. Typical flavors of red berry wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes include aromas of cassis, cedar wood, black pepper, clove and eucalyptus. <\/p>\n\n The Pinot Noir grape is said to have flavors of raspberry, cherry jam, plum and clove, and Syrah often has red wine flavors of blackcurrant, truffle, aged meat and violet. However, these are only the primary nuances of flavor. <\/p>\n\n The taste is also influenced by the winemaking process and subsequent storage. This is also referred to as secondary and tertiary aromas. Here, the winemaker and cellar master have much greater scope to influence the taste of the final wine. <\/p>\n\n A good red wine is judged according to the same criteria as a white wine: Color, aroma, structure and taste. And, of course, the vintage and origin of the red wine or its grapes also say something about the quality of the red wine. If the color of the red wine is clear and free of turbidity, and the wine has a range of aromas typical of red wines, this is the first indication of a good red wine. <\/p>\n\n As with white wine, the structure of a red wine must score points with its texture, body and length of finish. Compared to a white wine, however, a good red wine also depends on how well it combines the ingredients fruit, acidity and alcohol in a balanced way. <\/p>\n\n Red wine is called vin rouge in French-speaking Switzerland and vino rosso in Ticino. The term vin de pays suisse is also used for Swiss wines that are not produced from vineyards in a specific growing region. <\/p>\n\n AOC, DOC and DOCG are important designations of origin for wine. AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contr\u00f4l\u00e9e) originates from France and guarantees the origin and quality of a wine. DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) is Italy’s equivalent, which sets strict production standards. The highest designation is DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), which guarantees the highest quality in addition to origin. These designations serve as a seal of quality and a guide for wine connoisseurs to recognize and enjoy outstanding wines from certain wine regions. <\/p>\n\n Improper storage can cause the wine to oxidize and lose its taste. Red wine should always be stored in a cool, dark place. It is not important whether the bottles are standing or lying down, as 99% of all wines worldwide are bottled ready to drink. It is more important that the bottles are not unnecessarily exposed to light and heat, as these are the biggest enemies of wine in bottles. <\/p>\n\n Close the open bottle airtight and also store the open bottle in a cool, dark place – preferably in the fridge – and enjoy the red wine within the next three to four days.<\/p>\n\n Light, fruity wines without ageing in barriques go particularly well with light dishes. Full-bodied red wines, on the other hand, are strong in character and correspondingly powerful wines, usually matured in wooden barrels. They require correspondingly stronger dishes. With this general rule, you are never completely wrong when shopping. <\/p>\n\n If you would like more detailed information on which white wines, ros\u00e9 wines and, of course, red wines go well with which dishes, we recommend reading the various detailed articles on the Mathier wine blog:<\/p>\n\n In the Mathier blog, you can use the filter to find more articles on the subject of food pairing, i.e. which wine goes with which food.<\/p>\n\n Here is an overview of important facts about red wine<\/p>\n\n With its beneficial ingredients, red wine can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, excessive consumption is detrimental to health, so that medical institutions such as the American Heart Association recommend that men should not drink more than two glasses of red wine a day. <\/p>\n\n The assessment of which red wines are the best is very individual and depends largely on taste. These wines are traded very highly around the world: <\/p>\n\n Red wine is known to lower blood pressure and increase the level of good cholesterol in the body. Spanish scientists have studied and proven that red wine grapes, e.g. the Tempranillo variety, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels more than other sources of fiber such as oats. <\/p>\n\n Unlike white wine, red wine contains resveratrol. Researchers have discovered in various studies that resveratrol activates a messenger substance in the body that protects blood vessels from calcification, making heart attacks less likely. <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The oldest wine press for red wine, from Damascus, is around 8,000 years old and the oldest known of its kind in the world.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":919,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[71],"tags":[28],"class_list":["post-2694","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wine-magazine","tag-wine-knowledge"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2694","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2694"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2694\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18981,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2694\/revisions\/18981"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/919"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2694"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2694"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mathier.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2694"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nHow good are red wines for your health?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nWhere do the best red wines come from?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nSelected important red wine grape varieties<\/h2>\n\n
Cabernet Sauvignon<\/h3>\n\n
Merlot<\/h3>\n\n
Pinot Noir<\/h3>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nSwitzerland and its red wines<\/h2>\n\n
Pinot noir dominates the Swiss growing regions as a red wine<\/h3>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nOur top recommendations for red wine lovers<\/h3>\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\nHow is red wine produced?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nWhat are dry red wines?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nWhat are the different types of red wine?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nWhat do red wines taste like?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nHow do I recognize a good red wine?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nWhat is red wine called in the French and Italian parts of Switzerland?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nWhat do the AOC, DOC and DOCG designations of origin mean for wines?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nHow do I store red wine correctly?<\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\nRed wine and food<\/h2>\n\n
Which wine for which meal<\/h3>\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n
\n\nInteresting facts about red wine<\/h3>\n\n
Is red wine healthy or not?<\/h4>\n\n
What are the best red wines?<\/h4>\n\n
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Is red wine good for blood pressure?<\/h4>\n\n
Is red wine good for the heart?<\/h4>\n\n