Making the Switch from White to Red Wine

If you’re going to enjoy a glass of wine, pouring Cabernet instead of Chardonnay may be better for your health.  Is it time to make the switch permanent? Here’s what you should know.

Red Wines Are Considered Healthier Than White Wines

If you want to reduce sugar in your diet, red wines are a better choice than white wines. This even includes sweeter wines such as Riesling and Moscato. On the whole, red wines contain the least amount of sugar in any wine, at only 0.9 grams per glass. This compares to 1.4 grams in white wine.  

Although the terroir plays a role in the way grapes grow, you will find this is true regardless of where they are grown.  Therefore, you can buy California wines or French ones and enjoy the same red wine benefits.

Red wines are also a part of the Mediterranean Diet, considered to be a heart-healthy nutrition plan. Just be sure to limit yourself to no more than two glasses a day for men or one for women per the recommendation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in their 2020 Dietary Guidelines. 

Red Wines Have Properties That Are Considered to Be Good for Your Heart 

Red wines have many properties that may help your heart. Red wines contain antioxidants that promote higher levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL or high-density lipoprotein) and prevent plaque buildup in arteries.  

One of the properties in red wines, Resveratrol, is thought to prevent damage to blood vessels and reduce “bad” cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL). It also is believed to prevent blood clots. 

Making the Switch to Red Wine May Be a Good Idea 

For these reasons, having a glass of red wine instead of white with dinner or at a cocktail party is a good idea. You’ll have health benefits, prevent cardiovascular disease, and also enjoy some of the best varieties of wine in the world. 

Red Wines to Try 

If you’ve always liked lighter wines, don’t assume that every red is a heavy burgundy. Here are red wines that will win you over. 

Pinot Noir 

Pinot Noir grapes are difficult to grow, but vintners love them.  This prized red wine pairs wonderfully with mushrooms and roasted vegetables. 

Syrah 

Also known as Shiraz, this dark red wine pairs well with meats, pasta, and stews. You will enjoy Syrah with veggie burgers or grilled portobello mushrooms. 

Cabernet Sauvignon 

This variety of red wine is rich and delicious with a grilled steak or a bold pasta sauce. 

Malbec 

Malbec grapes native to Argentina make this wine. Since Argentina is known for its grilling, this wine pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables. 

Merlot 

If you’re new to drinking red wines, merlot is a great one to start with. It’s an easy wine to enjoy because it goes with many foods, including most meats, cheeses, and roasted veggies. 

To Your Health 

Switching to red wines can be a healthy choice that you will enjoy making. Trying some of these delicious red wines might make you forget all about Chardonnay.  Just remember: all things in moderation!