Moderate consumption of alcohol, which is the equivalent of one or two drinks per day, is considered beneficial for cardiovascular health, according to the BBC. The mechanism of action that confers wine's health benefits is not entirely clear. However, the antioxidants in wine called polyphenols have been identified as one of wine's beneficial compounds. Each wine grape variety contains different levels of polyphenols that directly correlates with the shade of the grape's color -- the darker the color, the higher the level of antioxidants.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet sauvignon grapes are very rich and dark in color, and consequently contain the highest level of polyphenols, according to the BBC. Cabernet is the most complex grape variety, according to Karen MacNeil, author of "The Wine Bible." The grape is native to Bordeaux, France, but is cultivated widely in other regions with similar climate and soil types, such as California, Italy and Australia. The cabernet wine is often paired with foods that have a robust flavor, such as beef and wild game with berry sauces.
Merlot
Merlot is a red grape variety with medium to high levels of polyphenols, according to Professor Andrew Waterhouse, of the University of California. Merlot also hails from the Bordeaux region of France, and is cultivated in California and Italy. A medium-bodied wine, merlot is often paired with pork, pasta or fresh tuna.
Syrah
Syrah is a medium-bodied wine with medium to high levels of polyphenols, according to the BBC. The syrah grape is native to France's northern Rhone Valley and is the principal grape in the wines of Cote Rotie and Hermitage. In California and Australia, the Syrah grape it is known as Shiraz. Syrah is often paired with lamb, beef stew and Creole dishes.
References
- BBC: Is Wine Good for You?
- "The Wine Bible"l Karen MacNeil; 2001
