Buy fruity wine: variety and enjoyment for every occasion
Fruity wines are an enrichment for every wine enjoyment and offer a range of flavours that delight both experienced connoisseurs and curious beginners. Whether red wine, white wine or rosé – a fruity wine impresses with its intense aromas and the fine balance between freshness and acidity. Switzerland, in particular, is home to excellent fruity wines that bring out the best in regional grapes and reflect the character of the terroir. But what makes fruity wines so unique and how can they best be enjoyed?
What is a fruity wine?
A fruity wine is characterised by aromas reminiscent of ripe fruit. From juicy peaches and currants to strawberries and raspberries, the variety of fruit aromas in a wine is impressive. These aromas are created by the grape variety, the climate and the ageing of the wine. It is important to note that a fruity wine is not necessarily sweet. Dry wines can also have a pronounced fruitiness, which emphasises their complexity and versatility.
The importance of grape varieties for fruity wines
The choice of grape variety plays a crucial role in the production of fruity wines. Some varieties are known for their intense fruit aromas and form the basis for distinctive wines. Sauvignon Blanc, for example, is characterised by its crisp freshness and aromas of gooseberry and grapefruit. Pinot Noir, on the other hand, offers a palette of red fruits such as cherries and raspberries, while Merlot is appreciated for its velvety texture and notes of plums and currants.
Fruity red wines: elegance and abundance
Fruity red wines impress with their complexity and balance between fruit and structure. They are the perfect choice for anyone looking for a full-bodied but not too heavy wine. Thanks to their versatile aromas, they go well with a wide range of occasions and dishes. The Gamay grape variety is a prime example of a fruity red wine, with a light structure and aromas of strawberries and cherries.
Fruity white wines: fresh and light
White wines with pronounced fruitiness are refreshing and versatile. They are an excellent companion to light dishes such as fish, seafood or salads. Grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay produce tropical fruit flavours such as pineapple, mango and peach, rounded off by a fine acidity. This combination makes fruity white wines an ideal treat for warm summer days.
Producing fruity wines
Producing fruity wines is an art that requires care and expertise at the winery. From growing the grapes to vinification, numerous factors are taken into account to optimally bring out the fruit flavours. Striking the right balance between acidity and fruit is particularly important. Harvest time plays a crucial role here: if the grapes are harvested too early, the fruit aromas may not be fully developed. Late harvest times, on the other hand, promote the concentration of fruit aromas.
The role of acidity in fruity wines
Acidity is a key factor in determining the freshness and liveliness of a fruity wine. A balanced acidity highlights the fruit aromas and gives the wine structure. Acidity is particularly important in white wines, as it makes the wine appear more lively. However, too much acidity can detract from the enjoyment. Here, it is up to the winemaker to maintain the balance between acidity and fruit.
Fruity wines and their colour
The colour of a wine provides information about its composition and aromas. Fruity red wines often have a bright, ruby-red colour, which indicates the freshness of the grapes. White wines with a golden yellow or greenish shimmer indicate tropical fruit aromas and good ripeness. Rosé wines, which often have a delicate, salmon-coloured hue, also impress with their fruitiness and elegance.
Wine and food: perfect harmony with fruity wines
The combination of wine and food is a question of harmony. Fruity wines are true all-rounders that can be used in a variety of ways. They go well with both savoury and light dishes and can significantly enrich the taste experience.
Fruity red wines and food
Fruity red wines are ideal for dishes with beef, lamb or venison. The fruity notes that are present in the bouquet balance out the intensity of the food and create a harmonious combination. They are also an excellent choice with tomato-based dishes such as pasta or pizza. Their versatility makes them the perfect companion for convivial evenings.
Fruity white wines and food
Fruity white wines are the ideal choice for fish and seafood. Their fresh acidity and notes of grass emphasise the delicacy of the dishes and provide a refreshing taste experience. Fruity white wines are also an excellent accompaniment to Asian dishes with a slight sweetness or spiciness.
Rosé wines and their versatility
Fruity rosé wines are very popular and are perfect summer wines to accompany barbecued dishes, fresh salads or antipasti. Their light structure and delicate fruit aromas make them a pleasure to drink on any occasion.
Tips for buying fruity wines
When buying fruity wines, it is worth paying attention to the information on the label. Terms such as ‘fruit-forward’ or ‘fruity’ provide clues about the aromas. The grape variety and vintage are also important factors that influence the taste. Swiss wines offer a great variety here, with something for every taste.
FAQ about fruity wines
What characterises fruity wines?
Fruity wines have pronounced aromas reminiscent of ripe fruit. They are versatile and go well with many dishes on many occasions.
Are fruity wines always sweet?
No, fruity wines can also be dry. Their aromas depend on the grape variety and how they are aged, not on their residual sugar content.
Which foods go well with fruity wines?
Fruity red wines go well with meat dishes, while white wines go well with fish and seafood. Rosé wines are versatile and go well with light summer dishes.
How can I recognise a fruity wine?
The grape variety and the description on the label provide information about the aromas. Terms such as ‘fruit-forward’ indicate a fruity wine.
How long can fruity wines be kept?
The shelf life depends on the variety and the ageing. Fresh white wines should be consumed within two years, while high-quality red wines can be stored for longer.
Are fruity wines suitable for beginners?
Yes, their accessibility and versatility make fruity wines like a Pinot Noir ideal for beginners. Their aromas are often easy to understand and appealing.
Which Swiss grape varieties are known for fruity wines?
In Switzerland, there are numerous grape varieties that produce fruity wines. Particularly popular are varieties that emphasise tropical and red fruit aromas.
How should fruity wines best be stored?
Fruity wines should be stored in a cool, dark place. A constant temperature of around 12 degrees Celsius