What Is Table Wine?

The world of wine is as diverse as it is interesting. From high-end Napa Valley wines to Beajoulais and everything in between, there is something for everyone. When it comes to entertaining guests, one type of wine stands tall above the rest: the humble table wine. 

Many wine aficionados may write off table wines as not being exciting, but sometimes simple is all you need, and in some cases, you may find yourself enjoying a simple table wine far more than a Montrose or otherwise. Needless to say, table wines are wonderful and often affordable ways to get into wine. In this article, we will delve deep into what makes a good table wine, as well as some examples of ones that we enjoy.

What Is a Table Wine

We hate to be vague, but table wines are cheap and made to be enjoyed with meals. These wines can come from anywhere and be just about anything, as long as it is cheap to you. These wines are made to be enjoyed with family at the dinner table. 

Imagine sitting down with family and sharing stories over multiple bottles of wine. That may be hard to do with a higher-end wine. 

While wine can be stuffy, it can also be fun and social. Sure, opening up a bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, but it hardly beats the time spent surrounded by family having one too many glasses of a cheaper wine. This is what makes table wines so special. 

Table wines should go well with a feast; at least, that's how they have done it in Europe for centuries. The term “table wine” comes from Europe. In France, the “Vin de table” may be enjoyed with more than just cheese and crackers, but with Ratatouille, duck, or just about anything under the sun. Honestly, table wines are meant to be simply enjoyed with whatever is at the table, hence the name. 

Table Wines in the US

Wine culture in the US has often eschewed the humble table wine; however, it shouldn't. Some American table wines are incredible and typically don't exceed 14% ABV (alcohol by volume), so you can enjoy more than one glass without getting too tipsy. 

American table wines are easy-drinking wines that have a reputation for being light, fresh, and low in complexity. Simply put, these wines are crowd-pleasers that anyone can go for. Wines such as Pinot Grigio are great examples of table wines. Pinot Grigio is typically light in flavor and pairs well with just about anything. 

Table Wines in Europe

In Europe, the difference between table wines and other wines is more clear-cut. Quality wines in Europe are distinguished by a QWPSR label that stands for “quality wines produced in specific regions.” This signifies that a specific wine meets a certain standard of quality. Table wines typically do not carry this stamp of approval. 

At the end of the day, it is nearly impossible to distinguish table wines from other wines aside from price, which can also vary. Someone's $40 bottle of table wine may be someone else's grail. Regardless of whether or not a wine is described as a “table wine,” what is most important is that wine is enjoyed with good company. 

Metro Wines

Rather than fuss over the controversial differences between what many consider table wines, why not check out the extensive list of incredible wines of all prices over at Metro Wines in Asheville? We are Asheville’s number #1 wine shop featuring everything from great bottles of value-priced wines to some of the most sought-after bottles in the nation. 

In addition to incredible wine, we also offer a full calendar of wine-tasting events and classes. You can also purchase online and have it delivered to your door if you are in our delivery range. So head on over to Metro Wines and begin your wine adventure today!