A Tongue Test

Tongue Test

What, you might ask, is a Light Red wine?

At least many do ask that question when we use the term.

Other questions might be:

If you put it on a scale does it weigh less than other reds?

Does it taunt heavyweights by dancing lively circles around them?

Has it embraced "the less is more" philosophy on alcohol content?

Does it have an astringent personality or just a bit of acidic wit?

Does it know what SAT means?

All good questions and the answers are:

No, Yes, Yes, Maybe, Huh?

In other words, we do believe that there are fundamental differences between Light" and "Heavy" reds but perhaps you should

Put your tongue to the Test 

to see if it can discern some of the following differentiating characteristics of Lighter Reds:

- They have a more slippery, less viscous texture than heavy reds.

- They enjoy Balmy days, often accompanied by appetizer plates.

- Generally have a lower alcohol content (certainly under 13%).

- They have less tannin to them reducing their astringency (that dry feeling in your mouth after swallowing)

- Their higher acidity yields a zipper, fresher nature.

- They usually have a brighter, more fruit forward profile - which shouldn't be confused with sweetness.

Often cited examples of Light Reds are Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cinsault, etc. but tomorrow we'll bring out an interesting quartet containing none of the above.

Some recent examples are:

• Fanatic Cabernet Franc: Clarksburg, CA

• Piros Siller: Cabernet Sauvignon, Hungary

• Los Chuchaquis Mago: A Sangiovese blend, CA Central Coast

• Groundwork Cunoise Carbonique: all Cunoise, CA SLO Coast

Your Tongue will have to decide!