What temperature should my wine be served?

Wine is a delicate and complex beverage, and one of the factors that can greatly affect its taste is temperature. Serving wine at the right temperature can enhance its flavours and aromas, while serving it too warm or too cold can dull its nuances and make it less enjoyable. In this article, we’ll take a look at what wines you should drink at certain temperatures to get the most out of them.
White Wines:
White wines are generally served chilled, but the exact temperature can vary depending on the type of wine. Here are some guidelines:
- Light-bodied white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, should be served at around 45-50°F (7-10°C).
- Medium-bodied white wines, such as Chardonnay or Viognier, should be served at around 50-55°F (10-13°C).
- Full-bodied white wines, such as White Burgundy or White Rioja, should be served at around 55-60°F (13-15°C).
Rosé Wines:
Rosé wines are also generally served chilled, but again, the temperature can vary depending on the style of wine. Here are some guidelines:
- Light-bodied rosé wines, such as Provence rosé, should be served at around 45-50°F (7-10°C).
- Medium-bodied rosé wines, such as Tavel rosé, should be served at around 50-55°F (10-13°C).
Red Wines:
Red wines are typically served at room temperature, but this can be a bit of a misconception. In fact, serving red wines too warm can actually detract from their flavour and aroma. Here are some guidelines for serving red wines at the right temperature:
- Light-bodied red wines, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, should be served at around 55-60°F (13-15°C).
- Medium-bodied red wines, such as Merlot or Chianti, should be served at around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
- Full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, should be served at around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
Sparkling Wines:
Sparkling wines, such as Champagne or Prosecco, are traditionally served very cold. Here are some guidelines:
- Non-vintage sparkling wines should be served at around 40-45°F (4-7°C).
- Vintage or premium sparkling wines should be served slightly warmer, at around 45-50°F (7-10°C).
In conclusion, serving wine at the right temperature can greatly enhance its flavours and aromas, and knowing what temperature to serve different types of wine at is key to getting the most out of them. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re serving your wines at the optimal temperature for maximum enjoyment.