In the cold winter months, a glass of rich French red wine will not only bring warm solace, but also add a romantic atmosphere to the season. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when enjoying winter wine to ensure that you fully experience the deliciousness and charm of wine.
First of all, the temperature at which the wine is served is very important. In general, lighter red wines are best drunk between 10-15 degrees Celsius, while full-bodied red wines are drunk between 15-18 degrees Celsius. In winter, due to the large temperature difference between indoor and outdoor, red wine tends to become too cold, which affects the taste. Therefore, before drinking, the wine can be left in a warm environment to allow it to gradually warm up, releasing better aromas and flavors.
Secondly, the wine pairing is also very particular. Winter is a great time to enjoy hearty dishes such as stews and grilled meats, and red wine is a great accompaniment to these dishes. For example, a full-bodied Bordeaux wine can be paired with beef stew, lamb, etc., while a light Burgundy wine goes well with roast chicken, grilled fish, etc.
In addition, the decanting time of red wine should not be overlooked. During the winter months, the decanting time of red wine may need to be extended to fully release the aromas and flavors of red wine. In general, the decanting time for lighter red wines is around 30 minutes, while for full-bodied red wines, it can take 1-2 hours.
Finally, winter is also a great time to taste vintage wines. After many years of aging, the vintage wines have developed more maturely and have a more complex taste. On a cold winter night, a glass of full-bodied vintage wine can make you feel the precipitation of time and the charm of time.