When you hear the names cabernet sauvignon, merlot or zinfandel, you probably think of wine but those are actually the names of different grapes.
In the US, vintners, or winemakers, name different wines from the grapes they are made from. Red grapes include pinot noir, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah or shiraz, zinfandel and more.
Red wines can typically come in dry, fruity or sweet styles, according to owner of Burgdorf's Wineryin Haslett, Dave Burgdorf.
Some wines are known to be paired well with certain foods. According to Burgdorf's Winery, here are some food pairing suggestions for certain wines:
Merlot:
Merlot is a full-bodied, dry red wine aged in French Oak that includes scents of black cherry, herbs, vanilla and more.
Burgdorf's Winery suggests beef or barbecue meats with this red wine.
Pinot Noir:
Pinot Noir is a lighter wine, that is smooth in texture. Burgdorf's Pinot Noir has a hint of cherry and raspberry flavor.
Burgdorf's 2011 Pinot Noir goes well with veal, lamb or pork dishes.
Syrah/Shiraz:
Syrah or Shiraz is a dry red wine that is medium bodied.
This dry red wine can be paired with pork or Italian dishes.
Chancellor:
This wine is a medium bodied, deep red wine.
Burgdorf's 2011 Chancellor wine is good with veall, lamb, or mild sauce pasta dishes.
Cabernet Sauvignon:
This is a full-bodied red wine that pairs well with roast beef or lamb dishes.
Burgdorf's Winery blends this grape with cabernet franc and merlot to make their 2013 Finlay's Reserve bottle -a bold, dry wine which leaves a taste of vanilla, toasted oak, and mixed berries.
Burgdorf said he uses some of these recommendations as a guide, but he suggests that people follow and create their own personal preference.
"You have to allow yourself to taste. Have people guide you but don't let them control you," Burgdorf said.
"People traditionally have white wine with fish and white meats and red wine with dark meats, well some do that but it is what you prefer and it's the interaction of the food and the wine. Try to stay individualized with yourself and not just what people recommend to you.
Dave and Deborah Burgdorf opened Burgdorf's Winery in 2005. The two have been making wine of over 30 years, and have won numerous awards for their different wines.
The 5-acre property is open all year and is located at 5635 Shoeman Rd, in Haslett.
For more information, visit Burgdorfwinery.com
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