Americans and have 40 percent fewer heart attacks. The researchers found that the moderate and daily consumption of red wine was the difference in the two country's lifestyles. According to www. winepros.org, studies have shown that a moderate consumption of red wine may prevent heart disease and forms of cancer. The chemicals in wine work as antioxidants, which prevent cells from being damaged. Also grapes used for red wine contain compounds shown to increase immune systems, block cancer cell formation, protect against heart disease and can prolong life. Wine also reduces anxiety and tension. So instead of ordering that pint and contributing to generations of beer bellies, try a glass of wine and you never know The restaurant chooses three different wines and customers can come in and try the wines and enjoy free snacks for $15. Nicole Lauderdale, manager of Teller's, says she thinks it's a great way to educate customers about the different types of wine. She says it's fun for the customers to compare the wine, especially between the varieties. If you really want to go all out, Pachamama's World Cuisine offers Tasting wine like a pro Seen Sideways? Miles wasn't exaggerating; people really do taste wine in intricate steps. Try these to get the most out of your wine. Rapidly swirl the glass, which releases the wine's chemicals. Insert nose into the glass and take either several short sniffs or one large sniff. Think of what the smell reminds you of. Should it be cinnamon, chocolate or oak? Note how long the flavor stays in your mouth after you have swallowed it. This is called length. Take a sip and move the wine over your entire tongue. You are trying to force the aromas into your nasal passageway at the back of your throat. www.ehow.com your heart may thank you someday. Hit the town In the light of the film Sideways and the jaded Lawrence thirst, there are plenty of places that offer an alternative to the usual beer and cocktail bar scene. Wine nights, wine tastings and occasional wine dinners can bring a little class to your Friday or Saturday night. Quinton's Bar and Deli have wine nights every first and third Thursday of the month. Manager Greg Mann says it gives people the opportunity to dress up and do something unusual for the night. Quintons' wine nights offer a taste of five wines — some red, some white — and a glass of your favorite, all for $10. Henry's on Eighth also offers wine tastings, usually on a monthly basis. Teller's also recently started offering wine nights starting every Wednesday. wine tasting every Friday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The restaurant chooses four to five wines, united by a common characteristic be it a type of grape or region. For anywhere from $15 to $25, you can sample all the wines and enjoy Pachamama's appetizers and atmosphere. No reservations are required. Manager Conrad Ostrand says a Pachamaa's wine tasting is a great way to start your Friday night. Pachamama's and Teller's also host wine dinners. The chef plans a five-to-seven course meal around a certain type of wine. Save this for a special occasion; the cost at both places is anywhere from $50 to $100 depending on the food and wine served. Paisano's Ristorante also has monthly wine specials. So with all these options, students have ample opportunity to take a break from beer and get out there and try some vino. Wine list decoded Next time the waiter appears, eyeing you with suspicion, you will know how to handle yourself. Don't fear wine; embrace it in all its complex and diversified glory. Wine will help you stay classy, Lawrence. Don't know Chianti from a Chardonnay? A basic look at the most popular types of wines. Reds Reds Cabernet Sauvignon Medium-to-full-bodied Fruit is primarily blackcurrant Often described as: intense and firm Chianti Hannibal Lecter's favorite Perfect with pasta (or liver and fava beans) Often described as: dry with hints of floral MENU Cherry, plum and chocolate flavors Fewer tannins (which cause a mouth-puckering sensation) then most reds Often described as: sweet and soft in taste Merlot Pinot Noir Pinot Noir Black cherries and red berries Fussiest of all wines (hard to grow grape) Often described as: velvety and complex Whites Whites Chardonnay Medium-bodied Peaches, honey and butter Often described as; clean and crisp Pinot Grigio Darker color for a white Ranges from light to full-bodied Often described as: dry and crisp Blush White Zinfandel Pink in color Fewer flavors and less alcohol Often described as: sweet and light Take three of these and make your own wine night. All you need is the wine (Alvin's, Mass Beverage and World Market have great selections), glasses and some friends. Pick three distinctly different wines and try to taste using correct technique. Source: www.wine.com Look in Tomorrow's paper for the newest Jayplay Giveaway Contest!