What is Table Wine?

There are so many different types of wine in the world that it can be pretty difficult to know the differences between them or distinguish one from the next. As such you may hear a term such as a table wine and have no real clue what it means.  So what is table wine?

Luckily for you, we are pretty clued up on all things wine-related and know exactly what is meant by the term table wine

In this article, we will be exploring exactly what table wine is as well as looking at the differences between table wine and regular wine.

We will also be telling you about all the different types of table wine. So if you’ve ever been offered table wine and wondered what exactly it is this is the article for you! 

What is table wine?

Table wine has two definitions and how it is defined depends on where in the world you are. With this in mind, you should note that the definition of table wine could either be a reference to a style of wine or a reference to the quality of wine in the wine classification criteria. 

First, let’s explore what we mean by table wine as a style of wine. Table wine is a wine that is often served at dinner or put on the table at dinner events. It is usually of a moderate quality, not the cheapest wine by any means but certainly not very expensive. 

Table wine is thought to be an ideal wine that is good enough for consumption alongside food but not quite good enough to be enjoyed alone when at a wine bar. It is not really a ‘main event’ wine.

Table wine is a wine with an alcohol content between 10-14 % ABV. Table wine’s carbon dioxide content is close to zero therefore sparkling wine is not called table wine as well as fortified wines due to the higher alcohol volume.

Are table wines high quality wines?

Table wines are often perceived as low-quality compared to their more prestigious counterparts. However, this assumption overlooks the high numbers, diversity and complexity of table wines available on the market today. With advancements in winemaking techniques and strict regulations around geographical indications, many table wines can offer high quality at affordable prices.

Geographical indications play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and quality of high quality wines. By emphasizing the specific region where grapes are grown and wine is produced, consumers can have confidence in the overall quality of the wine they are purchasing.

Therefore a table wine from a lesser prestigious wine region may provide a similar quality wine at a lower price compared to their famous counterparts. Additionally, advancements in viticulture practices have allowed winemakers to produce inexpensive table wines that rival those of higher-priced categories.

Table Wines in the USA and Europe

In the US, the definition of table wine is really as straightforward as that. It is typically between 7% and 14% alcohol content, as well as following the specifications we talked about in the previous paragraphs.

According to the US, table wine is neither sparkling nor is it a fortified wine. 

European Table wines

The technical specifications for table wine in the United States are far less than those in Europe, specifically those who fall under the jurisdiction of the EU (European Union). There are far more rules that need to be followed in the UK for when it comes to table wine. 

For this reason, table wine in Europe called table wine, according to European Union wine regulations, is a wine that is classed as a lower quality wine in comparison to a QWPSR wine.

This stands for Quality Wines Produced in Specified Regions. Wines from the EU fall into these two categories, with QWPSR being regarded as the higher quality of the two. 

Table wine in the USA

Of course, given that we are writing within the United States, we want to make clear that the wine here that we call ‘table wine’ is not subject to the same rules as the rest of EU.

A table wine in the US is defined purely by the fact that it is made from grapes and has an alcohol percentage of no more than 14%. Any more than this and it would instead be considered as a dessert wine. 

What is Table wine in the hierarchy of geographical indication?

At the base of the hierarchical pyramid of geographic wine classifications lie table wines. Often dismissed as inferior, these wines hold a unique charm that speaks to the terroir and the winemaker’s passion.

While they may not boast intricate labeling or prestigious origins, table wines offer a pure expression of natural, of grapes and land without any strict regulations stifling creativity.

Table wines occupy a critical space in the wine world, providing an accessible entry point for new enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Their unpretentious nature allows for experimentation and innovation by winemakers, resulting in a diverse array of flavors and styles that reflect the ever-evolving landscape of viticulture.

Despite their humble reputation, table wines play an essential role in shaping our understanding and appreciation of different grape varieties and regions.

What is the difference between regular wine and table wine? 

Typically, the difference between table wine and regular wine is that table wine has a lower percentage of alcohol. They never exceed 14% in total, based on the idea that it is designed to be drunk alongside a meal. This ensures diners can enjoy a glass of wine without getting too inebriated. 

The phrase table wine is now considered quite an old fashioned term that has gone out of fashion a little.

The term itself was coined at a time where wine drinking had quite specific rules and people drank wine when it was appropriate to do so, meaning different occasions and even different meals called for the drinking of specific types of wine. 

Nowadays it is simply used to refer to a wine that is lower in quality and alcohol percentage than other wines, and as such, you can generally expect table wine to be of lesser quality than regular wine.

Regular Wine

In comparison, regular wine will have a higher percentage of alcohol and be of better quality in terms of the grapes used and the winemaking process. 

Of course, this is not a hard and fast rule, and in truth, it may depend on your personal tastes as well as the winemakers themselves, because of course, a wine labeled as a table wine may have actually been made to a very high standard, and likewise, a regular wine might taste gross and be of a low quality. 

Oftentimes, you may know a little less about the origin of the table wine you drink you are drinking in comparison to regular wine.

Regular wines will usually be accompanied by lots of details about the grapes made, the year they were picked, the winemaking process, where it was made, and more.

Table wine may not have as many details, and may simply be referred to as house red or house white. 

What are the different types of table wine?

There are many different types of table wine in the United States. We could truly be here all day listing them out for you, but we thought it may be helpful to list some of the most popular table wines here in the States.

You may recognize a few of them, and certainly, after reading it you will be keen for a wine spritzer! Here is a small selection: 

  • Barefoot Wines 
  • Yellow Tail
  • Cupcake Vineyards
  • Gallo Family Vineyards
  • Liberty Creek
  • Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve
  • Apothic Wines
  • The Naked Grape
  • Chateau Ste. Michelle
  • Columbia Crest Estate
  • Inglenook Vineyards and Winery 

As we said, you surely recognize at least some of these brands, right? You will see that table wine is not one specific type of wine such as red or dry white wines but could be referring to any type.

You can get red table wine, white table wine, and everything in between! Chances are you have probably tried quite a few of them yourself! 

Are Chianti and Merlot Table wines

Chianti and Merlot are both popular table wines, each hailing from different regions with distinct characteristics. Chianti, a classic Italian wine from Tuscany, is known for its bright acidity and cherry flavors, making it a versatile choice to pair with a variety of dishes.

On the other hand, Merlot, commonly a wine produced in California and Bordeaux region of France, offers a smoother texture with flavors ranging from plums to chocolate.

Interestingly, while both Chianti and Merlot are considered table wines due to their versatility and approachability, they can vary greatly in terms of price point and quality. Chianti Classico DOCG wines represent the pinnacle of Chianti production with strict regulations on grape sourcing and aging requirements.

In contrast, California Merlots can range from affordable everyday options to high-end boutique producers with bottles that rival top Bordeaux blends.

Overall, whether you prefer the robust earthiness of a Chianti or the velvety smoothness of a Merlot, these table wines offer something for every palate and occasion. With evolving winemaking techniques and growing consumer preferences shaping the market, exploring different expressions of these classic varietals promises delightful discoveries for wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Vin de France formerly Vin de table

French vin de table, known as vin de France, encompasses a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas. One of the defining characteristics of vin de France or vin de table is the artful blending of different grape varieties. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot or Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are commonly blended together to create complex and balanced vin de table that showcase the best qualities of each grape.

In France, wine is classified into various categories based on geographical indications such as AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protegée) and IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée). These classifications guarantee the quality and authenticity of French wines, providing consumers with assurance that they are enjoying a product steeped in tradition and excellence.

The diversity of French table wine offers something for every palate, from Bordeaux blends to rustic Rhône varietals but they don`t meet the requirements of AOP or IGP wines.

Exploring the world of French table wine is like embarking on a journey through history, culture, and terroir. Each glass tells a story of generations dedicated to perfecting their craft and honoring the unique characteristics of their land.

Whether you are savoring a bottle from an esteemed AOP region or discovering hidden gems from an IGP designation, French wine never fails to captivate with its depth and complexity.

Italian table wine – Vino da tavola

Italian table wines, known as Vino da tavola, offer a dynamic journey through the diverse landscapes of Italy’s vineyards. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-kissed slopes of Sicily, each bottle encapsulates the essence of its grape variety and terroir. The beauty lies not only in their accessibility but also in their ability to reflect the philosophy of simplicity and quality that defines Italian winemaking.

The richness of Italian table wine cannot be understated; every vintage tells a story woven with tradition and innovation. These wines are crafted with care and attention to detail, embracing both time-honored techniques and modern practices.

With a wide range of grape varieties at their disposal, Italian winemakers have created a symphony of flavors that can cater to every palate. Whether enjoyed on a bustling piazza or at an intimate dinner party, Vino da tavola invites us to savor the moment and appreciate the artistry in each bottle.

Vino da tavola does not specify a vintage nor the grape varieties which are used for its manufacture.

Are fortified wines table wines

Fortified wines are not typically considered table wines, as they undergo a different production process that naturally results in a higher alcohol content. The addition of distilled spirits such as brandy during fermentation sets fortified wines apart from traditional table wines. This extra step not only increases the alcohol level but also adds complexity and richness to the flavor profile.

Can Sparkling wines called table wine?

Sparkling wines are a unique category of wines that differ from table wines in their carbon dioxide content. While table wines are still and typically have little to no carbonation, sparkling wines, such wines as Champagne and Prosecco, have bubbles that result from a secondary fermentation process. This effervescence adds a dynamic element to the drinking experience, making sparkling wines a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions.

Are dessert wines table wine?

While dessert wines are not commonly served as table wine due to their high sugar content and often richer flavors, they can still be enjoyed in various settings. Some wine enthusiasts believe that dessert wines can pair well with certain savory dishes, creating a unique culinary experience. Additionally, serving dessert wines as table wine can offer a surprising twist to the traditional dinner course, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to the meal.

Good Table wine vs Premium Wines

Good table wine and premium wine both have their own unique qualities and characteristics that appeal to different types of wine enthusiasts. Table wine is typically more budget-friendly and accessible, making it a quality wine and a popular choice for casual gatherings or everyday meals. On the other hand, premium wines are often crafted with higher quality grapes and undergo more meticulous production processes, resulting in a more complex flavor profile and overall drinking experience.

While good table wines can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dishes, premium wines are usually reserved for special occasions or moments when you want to indulge in something truly exceptional. The distinction between the two lies not only in taste but also in the craftsmanship and expertise that goes into producing each bottle. Ultimately, whether you reach for a good table wine or a premium wine will depend on your personal preferences and the occasion at hand – both have their place in the world of wine appreciation.

ChristinaDay
Hi, my name is Christina Day, and I am a self-proclaimed wine connoisseur. It is my favorite alcoholic drink, and I enjoy nothing better than kicking back on the sofa after a long week of work to enjoy a glass of wine… or two!