Warning: Stupid question

[2kCougar]

What is the difference between "dry" and "sweet". I have been trying wines that make me pucker (mostly reds). I have been told that those wines are too dry for me.
I like: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Syrah, Chards, Grenache
I don't like: Beaujolais noveau, Merlot

Can someone please clear this up so I don't look like an idiot anymore?!
Also, can you give me some examples of sweet and dry wines?

Thank you!

[Innkeeper]

Hi Coug, and welcome to the Wine Board. Dry wine has had all the sugar in the grapes turned into alcohol. The more sugar, the more alcohol. Sweet wine either has some residual sugar in it, or is dry wine with so much fresh fruit that it tastes sweet even though it isn't. Some of the wines you like are really sweet (most riesling and gewurtz), and the others are dry. The one you don't like are dry, although BN tastes sweet. Try an Italian Merlot from the Collio Region.