Are you a white wine lover looking for more? Do red wines intimidate or turn you off? If so, you are like many white wine lovers. In several conversations with white wine drinkers looking for a way to cross over to the red side, I have been asked to put together a "transition plan."

The first thing to remember about making the transition is that reds are not as crisp and can have a wider array of fruity flavors. You can also find that reds have a mouth-drying tartness (associated with tannins that only exist in red wines). The bottom line, they taste different. You may have to try a couple of reds before your pallet will adjust to the new taste.

So without further hesitation, here are some recommendations, ordered by how to proceed through the red wine experience. When looking at the wines you are considering, try to start with something fruity. If the fruity taste is too sweet, move to a wine that is described as dry.

Pinot Noir is about the softest red you can find. It has a light crispness that is mellow and inviting.

Beaujolais is a small section of France's Burgundy region. These wines are known for being light-bodied and somewhat fruity.

Burgundy is a larger region in France and starts to add in some of the fuller bodied grapes.

Valpolicella is an Italian wine that can range from light and fruity to full-bodied.

Merlot is one of the most popular reds, next to the Cabernet Sauvignon.

Have fun, drink what you like and enjoy the new land that you have opened.