Sure, we all know the classic grape wines—red, white, and rose—but have you ever tried a fruit wine? Despite its name, fruit wine is cultivated in the same way grape wine is—by fermenting juices from fruits other than grapes.
Unlike grape wines however, fruit wines are more unique to each type of fruit used. Varieties range from zesty pomegranates and luscious blueberries to tropical mangosteen and guyabano (also known as soursop). Each type of fruit contributes a distinct taste and aroma to its wine. On top of that, there is some indication that different varieties of fruit wines may offer health benefits as well.
The Health Benefits of grape wines vs fruit wines
Have you ever had a glass of fruit wine and wondered about the potential health benefits it might offer compared to regular grape wine? Let’s take a look at some of the possible advantages fruit wines can have from a health perspective. Both fruit wines and grape wines can have potential health benefits, but the specific benefits can vary depending on the type of wine.
Grape wines, especially red wines, are often touted for their potential health benefits due to the presence of antioxidants such as resveratrol. These antioxidants have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Red wines have also been shown to contain compounds that may help improve blood vessel function and reduce blood pressure.
Pomegranate (Or Plum) Wines
We know that wine made from grapes is commonly enjoyed, but what if we told you that other fruits can be used too? Pomegranates and plums are two examples of fruits that can be turned into wonderful wines. Both options offer different tastes as well as potential health benefits.
Pomegranate wines have a sweet and tart flavor with a smooth finish. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which may help reduce the risk of some chronic illnesses like heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Plum wines, on the other hand, have a sweet and spicy aroma with a strong fruity taste. They are low in calories compared to most other fruit wines and contain polyphenols which can help reduce inflammation.
Berry Wines
If you like berries, then you’re in luck: berry wines have some of the most varied tastes and potential health benefits. Berries, such as raspberries and blueberries, are typically made into light to medium bodied wines with a pleasant sweetness that usually only requires a short aging process.
Because of their high antioxidant content, berry wines can provide potential health benefits such as aiding in the prevention of diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. However, these benefits have yet to be studied or established in scientific research.
Mangosteen Wines
Mangosteen is a tropical fruit, native to Southeast Asia and it is highly prized for its sweet-tart flavor. You may have heard of mangosteen referred to as the “queen of fruits” and with good reason. While it is often eaten as a fresh fruit, it is also used to make a variety of products, including juices, supplements, and even wine. Mangosteen wine, in particular, has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique taste and potential health benefits.
The taste of mangosteen wine is described as sweet, tangy, and slightly acidic. It has a similar flavor profile to other tropical fruits, such as pineapple and guava. The wine is typically made by fermenting the pulp and rind of the mangosteen fruit, which gives it its distinct flavor and aroma.
When it comes to potential health benefits, mangosteen wines may be beneficial due to certain antioxidants such as xanthones that are found in the rind of the fruit. Studies show that these antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties which can help boost immunity, lower blood pressure, reduce oxidative stress and fight against certain kinds of cancer. However, more research is needed before any definitive health claims can be made.
Guyabano Wines
Guyabano, also known as soursop, is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America. The fruit is known for its unique flavor that is a combination of sweet and sour notes. Guyabano wine is a delicious way to enjoy the fruit, and it also offers potential health benefits.
Guyabano wine has a light and refreshing taste that is similar to white wine, with subtle notes of the fruit's distinct flavor. The wine is made from the pulp of the fruit, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
Studies have suggested that guyabano may have potential health benefits, including the ability to fight cancer cells and reduce inflammation. The fruit has been shown to contain compounds that can help kill cancer cells in the body, while also having anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Overall, if you're after a more exotic taste in the fruit wine world, try guyabano wines. The drink is deep yellow in color with a light foam, and it has an unusual flavor that's quite different from anything else you'll find on the market. So while there's no guarantee that drinking guyabano wine will have health benefits, you can at least enjoy the unique taste profile.
Fruit wines offer a wide variety of taste and health benefits depending on what kind of fruit you are using. While some fruits like pomegranate and berries are known to be packed with antioxidants and other healthy benefits, some lesser-known and exotic fruits like mangosteen and guyabano can also be used to make wine and provide unique and interesting health benefits.
When looking for the healthiest fruit wines, it is important to consider the unique flavor profiles and potential health benefits of each type and make the best choice for your body —but it's always wise to practice moderation (no more than 1-2 glasses per day) when consuming any type of alcoholic beverage. Ultimately, the fruit wines that are best for your health will depend on your individual needs and preferences.