(WGNO) – Adam Acquistapace of Acquistapace’s Covington Supermarket is often asked, “Is there a difference between pinot noir and cabernet?” Both are extremely popular, but they are two very different styles.
Red wines are weighed on a spectrum of their color. Lighter styles on one end and heavier styles on the other.
Acquistapace compared Justin cabernet from Paso Robles, California, and Louis-Jadot Cote De Nuit Villages, a pinot noir from Burgundy, France.
Cabernet, merlot, and zinfandel are all on the heavy side. These wines are much richer and more powerful because the grape skin sits in the juice and extracts lots of color and tannin.
Pinot noir and Gamay are on the light side. Pinot noir has very thin skin, and the grape is fickle. When the thin skins sit in the juice, color and strength are lost, producing a delicate and light wine.
Acquistapace recommends allowing your pinot noir to chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes before drinking it. The cabernet doesn’t need the fridge quite as much because it’s a thicker, heavier wine.
Have a question about wine, spirits, beer or anything? Visit www.acquistapaces.com.