Red and white wines are the big two, although within each of these camps there is easily enough variety to fill books and entire lives worth of experience. That said here is a quick wine guide on the big differences between the two and what to expect when you are serving them.
Red Wines: Made from both the skins and flesh of black and red grapes, red wine is fermented for one to two weeks and contains a richer and warmer flavor than most white wine. Red wine is typically served in glasses with wide lips to highlight the strength of its pallet, and is often served slightly warmer than white wines. Most prefer red wine beside warm or heavy fare, such as stew or meat dishes.
White wines: white wines are made, typically from white grapes without skins or seeds added to the process. They are also fermented for about one to two weeks on average and typically result in a light, crisp, and fruity flavor. White wine is served in a more slender glass with narrower rim and is typically chilled to a cooler temperature than red wine. Light pasta dishes are a favored side with white wine, and white wine is also a favored drink for mingling events along with champagne.
Red wine has also been praised for its role in helping with heart heath and donating antioxidants, however white offers, to a lesser degree, the same benefits. Grape juice (purple especially) is still another option for those who prefer a non alcoholic respite.