Why Red Wine Is Set Apart From Other Alcoholic Beverages

What do Merlot, Tannat, and Cabernet Sauvignon wines have in common? Yes, they are all red grapes. And, yes, they are all are used to make delicious wine. They also are SUPER grapes because they contain polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants. The polyphenols are attributed to combating cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. These antioxidants are primarily in the skins of the grapes. Traces are in the pulp and the seeds, but mostly in the skins. This is why red wine has more polyphenols than white wine because the red wine winemaking process involves more contact with grape skins setting red wine apart from other alcoholic beverages. 

Are all red grapes equal?

Well... no. Some grapes have higher polyphenol levels than others. Grapes with thicker skins, more pigment, and high tannins have more significant antioxidant volumes. Sagrantino has six times more polyphenols than Merlot and Pinot Noir. Sagrantino is indigenous to Umbria, Italy. Its availability is limited locally. Cantina Dell'Alunno Sagrantino Di Montefalco is one producer you can find it l at Total Wine and More. 

Tannat, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Oseleta, and Granache are other grapes with high polyphenol levels. These grapes produce higher acidity, bold flavors, and tannic finish wines. They are dark in color. There is one exception to this rule, and it is Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir, a thin-skinned grape, has high levels of antioxidants. 

Let's start drinking; how much wine can I have?

Drink in moderation. You start to lose the health benefit when you more than two glasses per day (between 5 and 7 ounces). These are sipping wines. 

What if I don't like red wines?

No worries... food also has high polyphenols levels. Apples, chocolate (dark chocolate), pomegranates, and beans are alternatives.  

Drink well and be healthy.