Wine Is Basically Dating in a Glass

When people talk about wine being “light,” “medium,” or “full,” they’re not talking about color — they’re talking about body, also known as how heavy the wine feels in your mouth. Think of it like dating: a fun first date = light body, talking stage = medium body, going “official” = full body.

Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

Light-Bodied Wines: The First date

Light-bodied wines feel fresh, crisp, and effortless. They don’t weigh down your tongue, and they leave you wanting just one more sip. Light-bodied wine is like a first date, sweet and easygoing.

The usual suspects:

• Pinot Noir

• Beaujolais

What they’re bringing to the table:

• Lower alcohol (around 11–12.5%)

• Higher acidity

• Soft tannins

*Light-bodied reds are amazing slightly chilled.

Medium-Bodied Wines: The Talking Stage

Medium-bodied wines are like the talking stage, balanced, well-rounded, and starting to hint at something deeper (the stage where you’re curious enough to ask, “Where is this going?”). They usually have moderate alcohol and smooth tannins, giving enough structure to notice the flavors without being overwhelming.

The usual suspects:

• Merlot

• Sangiovese

What they’re bringing to the table:

• Moderate alcohol (12.5–13.5%)

• Noticeable but smooth tannins

• More structure and depth

Full-Bodied Wines: The Committed Partner

Full-bodied wines are like the committed, all-in stage of dating; they are bold, passionate, and deep. Packed with high alcohol, firm tannins, and rich dark fruit flavors, they shine alongside hearty meals.

The usual suspects:

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Bordeaux

• Barolo

What they’re bringing to the table:

• Higher alcohol (13.5%+)

• Bold tannins

• Dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum

• Sometimes oak notes (vanilla, spice, smoke)

They’re the “marrying type” in the wine world: committed, complex, and leaving a lasting impression long after the glass is empty.