The basic colours of wines

At first glance, perhaps by common knowledge, we can ask for a white wine, which is quick and simple. But, do you know how white wine is created, or the other three wine colors came to be? Jesus didn't make all wine afterall.

What determines a distinctive color in wine?

The color of a wine can be defined by several factors, but the most important is the type of grape or varietal. The winemaking process, on the other hand, depends on other factors such as climate, harvest, fermentation, aging, and bottling, among other phases, but the color of our Mexican wines goes beyond the elaboration. In general terms, it requires planning, creation, and passion for each bottle of wine.

A bottle of wine is only the result of an extensive process that in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico, we have mastered and continuously create beautiful tasting wines. For example, for our process, there is the cultivation of the vine at its peak at the perfect climate, this is an essential factor and is usually one of the most important phases for the winemaker because, after a long wait, the moment of elaboration of the different types of wine arrives.

Red Wines Process

Red wine is one of the most commercial and therefore popular selections. Each red wine has its distinct bouquet of aromas and colors. This is the result of patience, water, and supervision. The grape varietals that are used to create red can be quite attractive, however, we must understand that the skin of the grape is the one that determines the color of red wine. And as we mentioned before, the weather has a lot to do with the final product.

Rosé Wine Production

Rosé wine is a wine where color is the first presentation. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as pink grapes, but you can stain wine juice. Well, that's exactly how you make rosé wines! You stain the grape juice for a short period using red grape skins. Rosé wines are the intermediate between red and white wine and the grapes used for rosé wine are the same as those used for red wine.

White Wine Process

Many white wines around the world are created from red grapes or white grapes. Let us remember that the color of the wine is defined by the skin of the grape, so if a red grape is used, the skin of the grape must be removed to blend only the grape and obtain white wine and this is how you can differentiate the grape variety and the difference between white wines and the different types of wines that exist.

Now that you know the basics about wine coloration, are you ready to choose from a wine list at Viñas de la ERRE? Visit us to come and compare some grape juice colors with us!

RSVP HERE

FAQs

What determines the final color of a wine?

The color of a wine is primarily determined by the grape skins. During the winemaking process, the amount of time the juice spends in contact with the skins defines whether it will become a red, white, or rosé wine. Other factors, such as the grape variety, climate, and aging process, also play an important role. In red wines, the pigmentation comes directly from maceration with the skins. In white wines, the skins are removed early on, while in rosés, the contact is brief. Therefore, the intensity of the color provides valuable clues about the wine's body, structure, and overall style.

How does the color of wine change over time?

Wine color evolves as it ages. Red wines transition from youthful purplish or violet tones to tawny or brick-red hues. On the other hand, white wines shift from a pale yellow or straw color to deep gold or even amber. These changes are a direct reflection of oxidation and prolonged aging. While young wines display bright, vivid colors, aged varieties present more muted, complex tones. These visual shifts are not just aesthetic; they signal transformations in the wine's flavor, aroma, and body. Observing the wine against a light source while tilting the glass helps detect these subtle nuances.

What is the difference between red, white, and rosé wine?

The main difference lies in how each wine is crafted in the cellar. Red wine is fermented along with the grape skins, which gives it its deep color and structured tannins. White wine is made without the skins—sometimes even using red grapes—by extracting only the clear juice. Rosé wine is achieved through brief contact between the grape juice (must) and the skins. This variation in contact time defines the intensity of the color, as well as essential sensory characteristics like body, texture, and freshness.

Does the color of a wine indicate its quality or flavor?

Color alone does not indicate quality, but it does offer hints about the wine's style and evolution. A dark, deeply saturated red often points to a more structured, full-bodied wine, whereas a pale red tends to be lighter and more agile in the mouth. In white wines, a golden hue can signal barrel aging and greater complexity. While it cannot predict the exact flavor profile, observing the color helps consumers and sommeliers anticipate the aromas and mouthfeel before the first sip.

What role does the grape variety play in the color of the wine?

The grape variety is fundamental to the wine's appearance. The skins contain the natural pigments responsible for color, which are particularly rich in red grape varieties. For white wines, red grapes can actually be used as long as the skins are separated immediately from the juice. For rosés, the same red grape can yield completely different tones depending on how many hours it stays in contact with the skins. Ultimately, the genetics of the grape and its treatment in the winery are key to defining the final look of the wine.