Wine is a fascinating beverage. You can study it for years, trying new wines around the world, and still find that there’s something new out there to learn or taste. Whether you’ve never had it before or consider yourself an amateur sommelier, learn some fun facts about this beloved beverage to share with friends and family the next time you sit down with a bottle at happy hour.

Trivia You May Not Know about Wine

1. Doctors Recommend Red Wine

Red wine, when drunk in moderation, has been found to provide some excellent health benefits. The antioxidants in red wine include resveratrol, anthocyanins, and catechins, which protect your brain and nerve cells, boost organ function, defend against chronic diseases, and encourage heart health. As a result, a glass of wine each day is better than no alcohol at all.

2. You Can Mix Red Wine With Coke

This may sound like a strange combination, but it’s a popular beverage in different parts of the world. In Spain, this mixture is called Kalimotxo, and contains equal parts wine and cola. It’s traditionally served in a highball glass with ice. Variations may include a lime twist, ouzo, or anise flavoring.

3. Pick Your Wine Based on Your Food

The right wine will complement what you’re eating by bringing out all the right flavors. Generally, red wine goes best with red meat such as venison and beef. White wine pairs with white meat such as fish and poultry. A sweet wine complements dessert.

4. Red & White Wine Glasses Are Different

A red wine glass has a rounder body and a larger opening. It provides more contact with the air to open up the bouquet and allows you to get your nose into the glass to sniff before you sip. A white wine glass is skinnier and has a smaller opening to preserve the carbonation.

5. Red Wine’s Appearance Changes With Age

Older wines are lighter in color because the tannins that provide their hue diminish over time. They may even turn translucent.

Wine is a classic pairing with delicious Italian cuisine. Get your fix of both at Il Lupino Trattoria & Wine Bar in Honolulu, HI. This tucked-away restaurant in Waikiki uses authentic recipes and the finest ingredients, plus they have wine selections from all over the world to suit your palate. Their happy hour runs from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Check out their wine and menu offerings online, and call (808) 922-3400 to make a reservation for happy hour.