Before we consider the question of what wine types are hot for 2010, we must first understand the various types of wines and the reasons for their specific classifications. The first category of wines is by color, as red wine and white wine. The second classification is by the type of grape fruits used for preparation of the wines. The third grouping is based on the country or region of origin of the wine and the grapes. The fourth categorization is done on specific qualities or features, such as blush, sparkling, and non-alcoholic.

Types of Red Wines

Red wines are prepared from black grapes, which are fermented as whole grapes, keeping the pips and skin intact. These wines are prepared either as sweet or light and as mellow or fresh. The major types of red wines are Merlot, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz or Syrah, and Zinfandel. Merlot and Barbera can be served with any kind of food items. Cabernet Sauvignon is served generally with red meat. Pinot Noir goes well with chicken, salmon, and lamb cuisine. Shiraz or Syrah are suitable for beef, wild game, stews, and steaks. Zinfandel is held as the most versatile red wine and is served with meat, pizza, or pasta with tomato sauce.

Types of Red Wines

White wines can be prepared both from white and black grapes and flavors of white wines range between dry to sweet. The major white wines are Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. The most popular white wine is Chardonnay that suits chicken and fish food items. Gewürztraminer is served pork, sausages, and Asian cuisine. Muscat can be consumed with any food item or on its own due to its musky aroma and sweet taste. Sauvignon Blanc complements seafood, poultry, and salads. Riesling white wine improves with age and goes well with chicken, pork, and fish items.

Types of Wines Based on Countries or Regions

European wines are categorized by the regions from which they originate, such as Bordeaux, Chianti, etc. Wines of non-European countries are classified by the type of grape, such as Merlot, Pinot Noir, etc. However, even in these countries, certain regions have acquired their own special reputation, like Napa Valley of California, Columbia Valley of Washington, Willamette Valley of Oregon, Central Valley of Chile, Hunter Valley and Barossa Valley of Australia, Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay of New Zealand, Vale dos Vinhedos of Brazil, and Niagara Peninsula of Canada.

What Wine Types are Hot for 2010?

A study in 2008 by The U.S. Wine Market: Impact Databank Review and Forecast revealed that American drinking preference had shifted more to wines and that too towards high quality wines. Hence, in 2010, the low-end wine brands are likely to lose market share and smaller brands that are considered as good quality will be garnering a bigger sales volume in the United States. This phenomenon is applicable to most of the wine consuming nations of the world. In the United States, Fish Eye, Santa Margherita, Ménage a Trois, Red Diamond, Edna Valley, and Kim Crawford had been the maximum selling brands in 2009. However, lesser known brands such as Acacia, Oyster Bay, and Bohemian Highway had been making greater inroads in the American wine market. This trend will continue in 2010 in all the countries, with people preferring quality wines to low-end brands. Consumption of red wine will be dominant but white wine and non-alcoholic wine will also increase in popularity in 2010.