Red wine- I need suggestions on red wine for beginners?

Question

I usually drink beer and mixed drinks but I really want to start drinking red wine instead. I don't drink often and every red wine I've tasted was too strong and couldn't take a second sip. Whenever I attend nicer occasions when there is mostly wines served, I usually just head to the sparkling wine or champagne. I know there are many types of reds, like merlot, pinot noir, etc. Any suggestions on types of reds that are not too strong that a beginner could handle.

Answer 1

Try Reunite Lambrusco, Not to dry not to sweet, I bet you'll enjoy it....

Answer 2

Robert Mondavi, Carneros Nappa 2006

Chateau Souverain, Alexander Valley 2004

Fire Station Red Red Zinfandel, Lodi 2006

Atwater Estates Merlot, New York 2002/2005

Pazzo, Sangiovese Blend, Napa 2003

These are very good wines to try I have listed them in order of my preferance. but you and I will like and dislike certain things. I hope I have choosen something you would like.

Answer 3

Red wine is an aquired taste. It also has a wide spectrum of flavors. Start with a Pinot Noir, slowly move up to a Merlot, then try a Shiraz, and eventually you'll get into Cabernet. Pinot Noir is the closest to a white wine, and it won't stain your mouth purple like Cabs do. Some good cheap pinots to try would be: Toasted Head or barefoot.

Answer 4

I would suggest a Pinot Noir or a Gamay to start.  They are light and easy to drink red wines.  If you need help choosing one from the store you are in, ask for a good value wine.  Cheap is not always bad and expensive is not always good.  I have found some gems from asking for a good value bottle in my price range from knowledgable staff.

Hope this helps!

Answer 5

If you really can't do a second sip of every red you have had, why continue to chase the reds.  If you want to try something other than sparklings I would start with a sweet to semi-sweet white like a white Zinfandel (which is actually a rose' ) or a Riesling. This may start developing your palate. Then try the drier whites like Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Soave or a dry Riesling. It takes time but if you can work into the dry whites then start with a red like Pinot Noir.

Answer 6

Where to start?  Let's start with the basics.  You're looking for light, fruity, without a lot of tannins (component in red wine that dries out your mouth).  I'd recommend starting with a Beaujolais Villages.  You can drink it lightly chilled by itself or with a light meal.  A young Dolcetto d'Alba from Italy has much the same light, fruity characteristics of Beaujolais but with a little more acidity.  Goes well with pasta and red sauces.  I love california cabs, but, on the other, I've bought into the belief that European wines are more food friendly.  And food is key to really enjoying wines.  So, grab a bottle of Dolcetto or Barbara d'Alba; cook up some pasta with tomato basil sauce and enjoy.

Answer 7

Red wine is good for you to fight against cancer and diabetes. It is very delicious. Alcohol free table wine containing only natural spirits is not much strong.