Do not make the mistake of thinking that red wine is all the same. There are some very distinct varieties and it is worth finding out more about them so you can select the correct one for you.

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular red wines as it is a full bodied wine and it is a good choice if you want to start your own wine cellar as it ages well. It has rich flavours and goes well with dishes that contain red meat.

Merlot is a good choice for blending as it is a medium bodied wine. It has very fruity flavours and some may notice vanilla notes. It is a good choice to match it with a roast dinner, such as lamb.

Shiraz is another full-bodied wine and it is a very deep colour, thanks to the thick skin of the grape. Originally it is from France, but Australia has become one of the biggest Shiraz producers in recent years. It does have some herby notes, while some varieties will edge more towards blackcurrant. It is a great choice for a barbecue or other outdoor gathering but it also works well with cheese.

It is too easy to simply order a white wine in a bar or restaurant, there are many different types of wine and once you know the difference between them you will want to try the different varieties.

Chardonnay is one of the most popular types of white wine. There are both still and sparkling versions and it works well with fish and chicken. Chardonnay has a very velvety taste to it with some rich citrus flavours.

Sauvignon Blanc is another good wine for chicken dishes and it has a slightly herby flavour. Different varieties will have different tones to the taste with some having melon or pear as a dominating flavour.

Semillion is generally used as a wine for seafood dishes but it is recommended with some pasta dishes too. The flavour has tones of fig and occasionally the grape will be blended with a Sauvignon Blanc to take the edge of the stronger berry flavour.

Moscato is one of those wines that doesn’t necessarily pair well with a main dish, but if you choose one of the sweet varieties then it will work well with a dessert dish. The flavour is usually sweet with fruity elements. It is a very popular wine around the world.

Pinot grigio is one of the most versatile white wines. With its origins in Italy, the wine is often dry and crisp, particularly if it is produced in Italy or Germany. If it comes from Alsace it will be more fruity in flavour. It works very well with Chinese or Thai dishes.