Category Archives: Red Wine

Red wine is a type of wine made from dark-colored grape varieties. The actual color of the wine can range from intense violet, typical of young wines, through to brick red for mature wines and brown for older red wines.

The juice from most purple grapes is greenish-white, the red color coming from anthocyan pigments (also called anthocyanins) present in the skin of the grape; exceptions are the relatively uncommon teinturier varieties, which produce a red-colored juice.

Much of the red-wine production process therefore involves extraction of color and flavor components from the grape skin. It is a delicacy around the world.

The Legendary Red Wine

The Legendary Red Wine All About The Impeccable Taste

The Legendary Red Wine

All About The Impeccable Taste

Remember the last session! 

There is more to red wine than you can imagine!

And definitely, there is something so special about red wine that you cannot take it out of your head. Antioxidants like polyphenols present in red wine are called resveratrol. They help protect the lining of blood vessels in the heart. This part of red wine got noticed by doctors for being healthy.

Quite often red wine is seen as a healthy choice. It is particularly associated with the traditional Mediterranean diet. However, balance is the key and it is not an essential part of the diet. So, make sure that it is consumed in moderation even though the antioxidants that they contain have a wide range of benefits.

Is it okay to consume red wine every day?

Assuming that you are healthy, there is no reason to stop if you enjoy a glass of wine daily. But there is no reason as well that you should feel compelled to start a habit. Doctors agree that drinking just about a glass of wine per day can help maintain health.

Savoring a glass of red wine before going to bed may help you to unwind. It will also help you to improve your overall health. It does not matter whether you are pairing it with a home-cooked meal or simply sipping it in the backyard. Nevertheless, wine is an excellent addition to your regular evening routine.

Is red wine good for the skin?

Red wine will also help improve inflammation of the skin as well as blood circulation. Eventually, good skin will likely reduce signs of aging. Antioxidants like flavonoids, resveratrol, and tannins in wine can encourage the production of collagen. This helps in protecting your skin from pollution and harmful UV rays.

Wine, Wine & Wine

Red wines invariably are friends to hearty dishes, but enemy to white shirts. However, they are the simplest alcoholic beverages in the world. All you have to do is simply harvest some grapes, crush them, and let them sit with their skins for a while to add color. Subsequently, you have to wait for some diffusive yeasts to convert the sugar in the juice to alcohol. There is no heating involved here unlike beer or liquor. You will not even need a still to distill. All you need are some grapes, a container, and nature to convert it into wine.

The finest red wines nowadays follow this pattern along with an addition of innovations over the years. These include aging in oak barrels, cultivating yeasts, filtration, and the latest vineyard practices. Comparatively, these are recent inclusions to the red wine experience. Mandates however govern the production of red wines these days and they vary geographically. Different regions of the world have different rules dictating the type of grape varieties to be used. And how long the wines must age, the final alcohol content permitted, and how to label the bottle of wine.

Best Red Wine Brands

There are so many aspects to consider when you are trying to decide which red wine to buy. Right from price and taste to its vintage and age. Red wines are commonly produced in every major vine-producing corner of the world. It is impossible to condense them all. But here are some that especially deserve a corkscrew.

So many wines and so little time. Find the reds that are most worthy of your attention. Here is a short list of the 15 best Red Wines to drink in 2024.

  • Achaval Ferrer Quimera: With 14.5 percent ABV this is the best Argentinian red wine coming from the Mendoza region. This wine with tasting notes of cedar spice, cherry compote, and dark chocolate is a blend with remarkable precision. Santiago Achaval and winemaker Roberto Cipresso specifically comb the vineyards for grapes and hand-select vines for this release. Typically, this blend consists of cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, malbec, and merlot which originally hail from the Bordeaux region in France. Malbec as such plays a starring role in this wine and is the most highly-regarded grape variety in Argentina.

Achaval Ferrer Quimera is loaded with blackberry fruits and marvelous spices. This red wine is intensely concentrated with layers of black cherry compote, cedar spices, and salted dark chocolate. It weaves in and out of clove and vanilla. Then there is a palate-coating richness that builds into a serious finish along with dried herb and rose petal flourishes.

  • Barons de Rothschild Legende Bordeaux Rouge: This best-value red wine comes from the Bordeaux region in France. With 12.5 percent ABV, it displays tasting notes of berry compote, earth, and sweet oak spice. It is the greatest new Bordeaux release in a decade., Légende wines typically come from the noteworthy Bordeaux house of Domaines Barons de Rothschild.

This winery was established as a First Growth in the year 1855. Truly, The wines they make represent the value-driven expression of Bordeaux’s notable appellations from Médoc to Pauillac. This Bordeaux Rouge edition is packed with red berry fruit, earth, sweet oak spices, vanilla, and warm wild berry compote. And to top it all, this wine retails for an affordable price.

  • Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon: This best northern Californian red wine hails from the Napa Valley. Featuring 14.1 percent ABV it displays tasting notes of blackberry, brown spices, and vanilla bean. Charles Krug’s winery today stands tall and is the pillar of Napa Valley. With Peter Mondavi Jr.’s leadership and longtime winemaker Stacy Clark at the helm, the wines they make are utterly enjoyable. They are classically structured, and worth every moment they spend aging.

This 2018 vintage is sourced from five estate sites in Yountville. It is modestly priced and is immaculately full-bodied. The Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon is wonderfully rich with blackberry fruits mingled with brown spices, tobacco, and vanilla bean along with black cherry, blackberry compote, and black currants. It is delightfully supported by engaging fine-grained tannins.

  • Cooper Mountain Pinot Noir: This best red wine comes from the Willamette Valley region of Oregon. With 13.5 percent ABV, it displays tasting notes of black cherries, dried roses, and earth. This territory of Oregon features a maritime climate. It is ingeniously situated on the same line of latitude as the pinot-producing Burgundy region in France. Moreover, the Willamette Valley is recognized as an excellent growing site for quality pinot noir.

Cooper Mountain Vineyards was founded by Bob Gross in the early 1990s. He had his sights set on an organic and biodynamic farming culture from earth to air. This winery noteworthily became organic-biodynamic-certified 20 years ago and has been pioneering responsible farming in the region. It is now joined by Barbara Gross, the daughter of the founder. Pinots grown here are reaching new heights and this delicious expression of wine abounds with flavors of black cherries, cranberries, damp earth, and dried rose petals.

  • Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo: This is the best Italian red wine coming from the Abruzzo region. It features 13 percent ABV along with tasting notes of black currant, black olives, and raw meat. It is difficult to think of a red grape growing area that is typically more of an Italian expression than Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. And no producer who consistently elevates this grape variety to its highest potential than Emidio Pepe. Pepe still oversees the production of the wines along with his daughters and granddaughters since the founding in 1964. This winery has earned a well-deserved reputation for producing rich and hearty powerful red wines using traditional winemaking practices.

The grapes used in the making of Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo are farmed biodynamically. They are destemmed by hand, pressed by foot, and aged in cement tanks for a minimum of two years. Moreover, no additives or manipulation is sought throughout the process. This wine is a pure, traditional, and age-worthy expression of the land. It results in a stunningly complex and structured red wine that is destined to get better with time.

  • Felton Road “Cornish Point” Pinot Noir: This best red wine comes from the Central Otago region of New Zealand. Featuring 13.5 percent ABV along with tasting notes of dried cherries, mocha, and red berries, this breathtaking wine is deep, dark-fruited, and lively. The territory it comes from visages a cool atmosphere and mountainous terrain. It is home to some of the best areas for growing quality pinot noir in the world. And Felton Road Winery located in the heart of this region is well known to make several complex pinots.

The Cornish Point Vineyard is planted on an old gold miners’ settlement. It comprises a unique terrain bordered by water on both sides. Eventually, this helps to minimize frost. The rows of vines here are adapted to 345 degrees. It is so that the grapes receive an extra hour of morning sun alongside receiving less of the hotter afternoon sun. Moreover, these vines are coupled with biodynamic farming practices. Overall, it results in creating a deeply creamy wine along with fleshy flavors of dried cherries, red berries, and subtly dusty tannins. Supported by juicy and racy acidity, this wine happens to end in a mocha-tinged finish.

  • Gaja Barbaresco: This best overall red wine comes from the Barbaresco region in  Italy. It features 14.5 percent ABV along with tasting notes of baking spice, cherry, tar, and violets. Wine lovers around the world invariably turn to cabernet sauvignon for intensity. And to pinot noir for elegance. Nevertheless, Nebbiolo grapes match them both on each count. Traditionally, this celebrated grape variety hails from the Italian region of Piedmont. This is where the thick-skinned grape assortment isn’t harvested until late in the growing season. It is done around when the autumn fog begins to roll in. Barolo and Barbaresco are the two villages here that have produced the finest Nebbiolos in the world for ages.

Angelo Gaja is one person who can take credit for showcasing Piedmont Nebbiolo on the international map. The first vintage release of Barbaresco happened in 1961. Gaja ever since begun pioneering modern winemaking practices including green harvesting, aging in small barrels, and more. These things were previously unheard of in this area and were initially considered controversial. The recent releases of Gaja’s flagship Barbaresco are among the most faithful and traditional expressions of the region. It displays signature notes of tar and violet, along with baking spice, candied orange peel, cedar, cherry, coriander, dark chocolate, and wild berries. All of these are complimented by great depth and gorgeous tannins that have aged well for several decades. Overall, this is a legendary wine from a legendary producer and is emphatically designed to give you a legendary drinking experience.

  • Girolamo Russo A Rina Etna Rosso: This best chillable red wine comes from the Etna region of Sicily in Italy. It features 13.5 percent ABV along with tasting notes of ash, black pepper, clove, and red berries. Italy is truly home to some legendary red wines. Right from the Brunello of Tuscany to the Amarone of the Veneto. And to the Barolo and Barbaresco of Piedmont. Hulking reds further south are made from Aglianico and Sagrantino. They are establishing themselves as contemporary legends in their own right. These brooding red wines are full-bodied and can be served chilled while they still seriously offer character and flavor.

It is about time to explore the world of earthy Sicilian reds if you haven’t. We specifically recommend this one from Etna. This complex, terroir-driven wine is grown in the ash-laden volcanic soils of the region. It imparts an undeniable mineral quality to the juice. This mouthwatering expression of Girolamo Russo A Rina Etna Rosso oozes with flavors of black pepper, cloves, red berries, and smoky ash.

  • Larkmead Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: This best organic red wine comes from the Napa Valley in California. It features 14.7 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of dark chocolate, dark fruit, fresh-turned-earth, and tobacco. This winery comes under the watch of winemaker Dan Petroski. It just does not focus on making world-class wine but helps shed light on the necessary work for studying climate change. Larkmead converted to organic farming practices in 2015.

Cabernet collectors across the world should love to stockpile these wines from the 2016 vintage. They are high with a naturally vibrant acidity mainly because of a moderate growing season. Signifiers of this assortment are deep, dark fruit along with a distinct freshness. Larkmead has them all in spades. These red wines incredibly add alluring brown spices, fresh-turned-earth, and tobacco wrapped in dark chocolate along with firm, dusty tannins and mouthwatering purple-violet notes. You can gracefully contemplate this wine over many hours. Remember to grab a bottle or two of this wine every year over the next decade.

  • Louis Latour Château Corton Grancey Grand Cru: This best French red wine comes from the Côte Beaune region in Burgundy. It features 14 percent ABV along with tasting notes of baking spice blood orange, dried raspberries, and red currants. Louis Latour is one of the top names in all of Burgundy. They produce some of the most unique wines and Château Corton Grancey is one of them. It is a blend of four Grand Cru vineyards including Bressandes, Clos du Roi, Grèves, and Perrières.

This wine delivers profound notes of black and red currants, along with blackberry fruit, blood orange citrus, and dried raspberries. This taste is underscored by baking spices and dried red florals. This pinot noir red wine is a textural masterpiece that comes with mouthwatering acidity and grippy cedar-type tannins. 

  • Penfolds Bin 389 South Australia Cabernet/Shiraz: This best Australian red wine comes from South Australia. It features 14.5 percent ABV along with tasting notes of black cherries, cassis, fruit cake, and new leather. Penfolds as such is the greatest winemaking estate in Australia. It is best known for its iconic wine Penfolds’ Grange. Peter Gago is the chief winemaker here who makes his mission to produce well-structured wines with deep flavors.

Both Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grown here originally hail from France. By the way, Syrah is known as Shiraz in the southern hemisphere. Tradition and geography dictate that they were not ever blended together in Europe earlier. However, the Australians discovered a real fondness for this individualistic pairing. Penfolds’ Bin 389 effectively combines 46 percent Shiraz with 54 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. This is characteristically an Aussie blend. Bin 389 is often referred to as Baby Grange out here. It is offered at an affordable price than the Grange. This red wine in fact is a crowd-pleaser and can thoroughly be enjoyed by wine lovers worldwide.

  • Prats & Symington Prazo de Roriz: This best Portuguese red wine comes from the Douro region. It features 13.8 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of blood orange, cedar, cranberry, and raspberry. This country for long was thought of as little more than the place where port wine came from. However, consumers are now discovering that Portugal is also worthy of producing some excellent red wines that are available at bargain prices. Quinta de Roriz is owned by the Symington family. They started by producing port two centuries ago. This estate today spans over 222 acres where half the property is planted with Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional vines. These varieties are widely planted throughout Portugal and produce some of the most popular red table wines. They are also quite capable of producing some of the best reds of great depth and character.

The Prazo de Roriz is an exceptionally complex red wine for the price you pay. It shows brilliant medium to deep ruby hues inside the glass. This red wine comes along with bright wild berry aromas alongside fine French cedar spices that enjoin cranberry and raspberry. It is appealingly supported by firm tannins along with a touch of baking spices and blood orange. This wine goes extremely well on the palate.

  • Tyler Winery Sanford and Benedict Pinot Noir: This best South Californian red wine comes from the Santa Rita Hills region. It features 13.5 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of black cherries, mocha, and red currant. California wines garnered international esteem in 1971 when botanist Michael Benedict and his friend Richard Sanford planted their eponymous vineyard. They were seeking a cool-climate site that would yield grapes capable of producing wines with enough depth and elegance to rival European classics. Their experiment bears fruit half a century later with a resounding success.

The Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is now well established as the source of some of the most sought-after pinot noir grapes in the region. Justin Willett, the Tyler winemaker for over a decade now has been lucky enough to craft an acclaimed pinot from this vineyard. This winery utilizes the cooler climate vineyard sites with close proximity to the ocean. And the winemaker effectively creates perfectly balanced chardonnays and pinots. All the wines from Tyler are made in the exact same way to express the individual terroirs. This juicy, salty, and vibrant offering is among the elite wines distributed all around California.

  • Vega Sicilia Único 2009: This best European red wine comes from the Ribera del Duero region of Spain. It features 14 percent ABV along with tasting notes of cigar box, forest underbrush, and spiced plums. Vega Sicilia would be at the top if Spain classified its wineries as they do in Bordeaux. Remember that first growths typically dominate the pyramid of wineries ranked from first to fifth. This winery over a decade in the making is owned by the Álvarez family.

The 2009 vintage blend consists of 94 percent tempranillo along with 6 percent cabernet sauvignon. They have been aged for six years in oak prior to bottling where they remain for another four years before being released. This red wine comes with bountiful ripe flavors that fill the mouth. The taste is redolent of red cherries and spiced plums. The palate reveals a fresh yet elegant wine wavering between cigar box, deep forest underbrush, and muddled blueberries. Moreover, this special wine is expensive and should really be enjoyed on special occasions.

  • Woodward Canyon Artist Series Cabernet Sauvignon: This best American red wine comes from the Washington region of the United States. It features 14.5 percent ABV along with tasting notes of baking spices, black cherry, and menthol. This vine region is further north of Oregon. Paradoxically, it is best known for producing grapes that thrive in warmer climates. The majority of vineyards located west of the Cascade Mountains expose grape harvests to maritime weather. This creates an ideal growing condition for cool-climate grapes like pinot. However, vineyards in Washington mostly lie east of the Cascades. Therefore, maritime influences are normally blocked. This results in longer warm growing seasons that are perfect for hearty reds like cabernet sauvignon.

Woodward Canyon Winery is the second to be established in the prolific Walla Walla Valley of Washington. It is a family-run venture and has been churning out delicious reds since 1981. Artist Series Cabernet is a blend of grapes sourced from some of the most highly regarded vineyards of the region, including the legendary Sagemoor Vineyard. It results in a silky, medium-to-full-bodied wine bursting with notes of ripe black cherry, black pepper, blueberry, cassis, cedar, cocoa, menthol, and warm baking spices. However, it is ideal to wait for about five years before opening. This wine as such benefits from a little time to integrate within the bottle.

Old Friends, Old Manners & Good Times

There are few wines that can match the combination of elegance, richness, and age-worthiness. Gaja Barbaresco reliably delivers. Introduced by Angelo Gaja in the ’60s and ’70s, this is an enduring classic vintage that fully combines Piemontese traditionalism with norm-shattering vineyard practices. 

What to Look For in Red Wines

Here are some essential tips for what to look out for while choosing your bottle of red wine –

  • Price – Some of the best wines are sometimes costly. Therefore, price is often considered while buying wine. However, you don’t always have to spend a small fortune to enjoy a truly memorable wine. The price of your wine bottle more or less always depends upon what you are looking out for.
  • Vintage – The age of your wine is yet another factor to consider when you are trying to decide which wine to go for. It’s a fact that some vintages are better than others. But it is worth researching or consulting a trusted wine expert when you have questions and want to understand more about the vintage or the aging process of wine. Knowing such details will help you decide whether the wine you are choosing is best to drink young or will age well.
  • Taste – The taste of your drink of course is paramount. And a few factors come into play within its ambit when it comes to red wine. The balance is a non-negotiable factor. There has to be an unspoken equilibrium in a great red wine. Right from tannins to alcohol to acid and fruit balance. It is always better to go for reds with pronounced aromatics. The nose invariably knows the best. See if you feel entranced. 

FAQs 

What temperature is ideal for storing red wine?

Most red wines should be stored at 12.8 degrees Celsius which is normal cellar temperature as well. Almost every wine will normally age when it is kept away from light and heat. So, store it in a dark and undisturbed corner of your closet if you do not have a wine fridge. The ideal serving temperature for most red wines is somewhere around the cellar and room temperature. But light-bodied wines like a white or rosé may be served fully chilled. This does not mean that you should store it in your regular fridge for a long time as the vibrations of a fridge motor can be disruptive to wines and throw off flavors. 

How long will the red wine last once the bottle is opened?

Light-bodied red wines with low tannins will last for a couple of days at least, while fuller-bodied wines with high tannins will last up to about five days. Moreover, you can also prolong the life of your opened red wine bottle by storing it in the fridge. However, remember to bring it back to the ideal serving temperature before pouring. Moreover, light-bodied red wines will taste too astringent when served chilled. 

What is the normal alcohol content in red wine?

Regular red wines usually clock around 12 to 15 percent ABV. Whereas dry white wines usually tend to feature between 11 to 14 percent ABV. As a general rule, it is likely that full-bodied wines have higher alcohol content than light-bodied wines. 

How do you choose a good red wine brand?

A red wine must first smell good and be pleasing to the nose. Experts also advise that you stay away from reds that are overly oaked. It is recommended that you seek out producers you already know and love when seeking out a new and delicious red wine edition. Get to know the work of a winery in past vintages of different grape varieties. It is a great place to start for picking the right quality red wine.

Another factor worth considering while selecting a good wine is the size of the winery. Red wines are mostly mass-produced, Quite often the best way to pick one is just to take a gamble and try something new. 

Which is the most popular red wine?

It is a fact that bold and assertive depths of cabernet sauvignon redolent of anise, black currant, and black pepper resonate most with American drinkers. It is worth checking them out.

Benefits & Side Effects of Consuming Red Wine

Benefits & Side Effects Of Consuming Red Wine

Benefits & Side Effects Of 

Consuming Red Wine

Remember that there is a fine line between moderate and excessive drinking of alcohol. This can make all the difference. Excessive consumption of red wine can also be detrimental to health. On the flip side, too little of it will not provide you the desired benefits that are normally enjoyed by the moderate consumers of red wine.

10 Red Wine Benefits & Side Effects

Red wines vary in taste and color. They are typically prepared by crushing and fermenting whole and dark-colored grapes. Then there are many varieties of red wines. The most common of these are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz.

You need to know almost everything before consuming a red wine. Including what are the negative and positive effects it can have on your health. Here are the top 10 health benefits of consuming red wine.

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Red wines are normally enriched with powerful antioxidants. Moreover, darker grape varieties are higher in antioxidants like epicatechin, catechin, proanthocyanidins, and resveratrol. Proanthocyanidins and resveratrol are mainly responsible for keeping the body healthy.
  • Lowers Bad Cholesterol: Red wines are well known to lower the bad cholesterol in our body system. According to studies, the high-fiber Tempranillo red grape variety is the best. They are commonly used to make certain varieties of red wines like Rioja that are found to lower levels of bad cholesterol.
  • Keeps Heart Healthy: Red wines not only regulates cholesterol levels but also keep our heart healthy. A certain type of antioxidant called polyphenols is present in red wines that prevent unwanted clotting by flexing the blood vessels. However, one should remember that heavy consumption of red wine can also damage the heart.
  • Regulates Blood Sugar: Resveratrol is a natural compound found in grape skin. It is able to control blood sugar levels in diabetic persons. Research indicates that people who took 250 mg of resveratrol supplements every day for three months had lower glucose levels in their blood compared to others who did not. This specific antioxidant is also able to control cholesterol levels and systolic blood pressure.
  • Reduces the Risk of Cancer: Regular and moderate consumption of red wine can do wonders. It can adequately reduce the formation of certain types of cancers; including basal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate carcinoma. Scientists utilized a dose of resveratrol on human cancerous cells to ascertain. They found that it effectively obstructs a key action of a cancer-aiding protein.
  • Helps Treat Common Cold: The antioxidants present in red wines can also be useful in treating common cold; Since these antioxidants protect cells against the harmful effects of free radicals. They have a strong role to play in the prevention of cancerous formation, colds, and other types of diseases.
  • Keeps Sharp Memory: A sharp memory is essential to living, especially within the modern ambit of our lifestyle. Resveratrol present in red wine according to research inhibits the formation of beta-amyloid protein. It is a key ingredient in the formation of plaque in the brains of people suffering from Alzheimer’s.
  • Keeps Body Slim: It is gladdening to know that resveratrol also helps in keeping a check on body weight. The piceatannol chemical compound converted from resveratrol effectively reduces fat cells in our body. Moreover, according to research piceatannol fastens the insulin receptors of fat cells. Which in turn blocks the pathways required for immature fat cells to multiply.
  • Reduces the Risk of Depression: A study carried out by researchers on middle-aged to elderly people showed that regular daily consumption of moderate amounts of red wine keeps away depression. It was found that individuals who drink red wine are less likely to be depressed in comparison to people who do not.
  • Positive Effects on the Digestive System: The anti-bacterial nature of red wines enables our body to effectively treat stomach irritation and other digestive disorders as well. Regular red wine consumption has also proven to reduce the risk of infection from Helicobacter pylori. This especially is a bacterium that is usually found in the human stomach.

Side Effects of Red Wine

Red wine is likely safe for most adults when consumed orally and used in moderation. This amounts to about two 5-ounce glasses per day. However, drinking more than this is probably unsafe. Consuming larger amounts of red wine regularly can cause blackouts, drowsiness, trouble walking, and vomiting alongside other serious problems.

Moreover, excessive consumption of alcohol, including red wine can have a number of negative effects on the body. It can cause liver cirrhosis, weight gain, and various other health-related issues. This can also seriously pose a threat to your life. 

This in no way means that you cannot indulge in drinking your favorite red wine once in a while. But remember that it should not exceed more than 1 to 1.5 glasses a day for women, and 1 to 2 glasses every day for men. Moreover, it is also advisable to skip wine for 1 or 2 days every now and then so that there are sufficient gaps in between. However, it should be your overall drinking limit and not for red wine alone.

FAQs

How long should you allow red wine to breathe?

Red wines should breathe for a minimum of 30 minutes if you want to get the most out of your wine and savor its distinctive character. However, bolder red wines should be poured out for up to an hour prior to serving. 

What temperature is ideal for red wine to be served at?

The ideal temperature for red wines to be served is part of your individual experience. Moreover, it depends on the choice of red wine you are having. Light and crisp red wines should most likely be chilled and served between 12 to 13 degrees Celsius. While medium-bodied reds should be served at around 14 to 16 degrees Celsius. Fuller-bodied red wines should be consumed in warmer temperatures at around 16 to 18 degrees Celsius if you wish to experience the rounded flavors. 

How long do red wines keep once the bottle is opened?

Red wines usually last from three to five days after they are opened. Once again this depends on the type of red wine. Tannins found in grape skins and stalks transferred into wine will usually be responsible for giving color to wine. And they aid in delaying the oxygenation process. Your wine will last longer depending upon the redness of the wine. 

What types of red wine glasses are available?

You can come across red wine glasses of different shapes, sizes, and styles when you go shopping for kitchenware. However, they usually incorporate the same features. Including a circular base and slender stem. Nevertheless, the shape and width of the wine glass will impact the way in which your red wine will release certain flavors and aromas. 

Which type of red wine is best?

This aspect is totally subjective. A great place to start can be to look for award-winning red wines. Another nice place to begin could be to identify the region where your favorite red wine comes from. Subsequently, you can look for that same grape variety from a different region. If you love a fruity Syrah from sunny California, then it is likely that you will also cherish a juicy Aussie Shiraz as well.

Types, Styles & Varieties Of Red Wine

Types, Styles & Varieties Of Red Wine

You are not alone in loving a good wine. Glasses and racks all around the world get filled with red wine every year. There are well over 50 different types of red wines out there to explore and enjoy. These range from rich, powerful palates, to lighter and more fruity styles. Here is a short list of the 15 most popular types of red wines from all around the world.

When it comes to red wine there is no one size that fits all. There are so many aspects you need to consider, including taste, occasion, and price while choosing a red wine. It is, therefore, important to understand wine labels which can quickly help you to figure out the one you are likely to enjoy. 

Take The Grape Escape

Certain red grape varieties are notorious for having bold flavors and high tannins. It is even more exaggerated if they are coming from a warm climatic region. Moreover, a wine from a particular French appellation may have certain nuances that are atypical of that particular region.

Light-colored red wines generally tend to be younger wines. They are normally defined as light-bodied or medium-bodied. Deep ruby and garnet red wines are usually medium or full-bodied. This post is meant to help you guide you through to red wines to find out more about them.

Red wines are typically classified as either dry or sweet. They are categorized through the level of sugar that remains following the process of fermentation. It is normally classed as a dry wine when residual sugar is low at the end. Whereas higher sugar levels in wines ensure they remain sweeter to taste.

15 Red Wine Types & Styles

The most popular types of red wines are usually made from grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Shiraz, and Zinfandel. Many red wines like the favorite ones we have listed here are referred to by the grape variety from which they are produced. There are other popular types of red wines as well that are named after the region where they have been produced, rather than their grape variety. Most prominent in this category is Rioja.

  1. Barbera

This grape variety originates from Italy. It is a fruit-driven red grape that has seen a surge in demand over recent times. Barbera typically produces full-bodied wines with high acidity and low tannins.

Over 80 percent of the global cultivation of Barbera grapes happens in Italy. This country by far is the largest producer. Other countries are also catching up fast with the success of this grape story and upping production. Winemakers in Slovenia, just across the border, are taking advantage of similar climatic conditions and producing some great examples of their own. Argentina and California far away are growing smaller amounts of Barbera as well.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Tuck into a bottle of Barbera to find a fruit-led flavor profile. It comes along with prominent notes of blackberry, dark cherry, and strawberry. However, this red wine is not often aged and is instead enjoyed young. This is why oak-aging flavors are usually limited in this wine type. Nevertheless, this red pairs very well with Italian food. It is normally a good way to go and this wine is no exception. Just think about a meaty bolognese or a classic meaty feast pizza.

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon

This is one of the most popular types of red vines in the world. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold and powerful reds. This wine is full-bodied and relatively low in acidity alongside being rich in fruit flavors. This grape variety is a very meaty vino. It also has high tannins which when combined with thick skin have a great potential for aging.

Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, Cabernet Sauvignon is generally blended with other varieties of grapes. These include Merlot to create Bordeaux blends. Thanks to its versatility, this grape has gone on to be cultivated in many other wine regions across the world. It is nowadays also found in Australia, Chile, South Africa, and Spain.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Tasting notes of Cabernet Sauvignon wines can vary across the world. Some notes will be consistent regardless of the region where they were grown. You can expect the wine to display intense, dark fruit flavors like blackcurrant and cherry, alongside notes of chocolate, eucalyptus, and tobacco in oaked varieties. Mainly because of these deep, rich flavors, it is important to pair Cabernet Sauvignon wines with foods that do not overpower your meal. A great match for this red wine would be a burger or a juicy steak. This wine is also excellent with strong cheese cuisine or indulgent dark chocolate desserts.

  1. Carménère

This grape variety is a less common variety. However, it is certainly worth being on any wine buff’s radar. It produces some outstanding wines and is a predecessor to some of the better-known red grape varieties like Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Carménère is known as a difficult grape to cultivate. It produces medium-bodied, fruity wines along with high acidity and noticeable tannins imparting a smooth mouthfeel. However, this style can slightly vary depending on the region where they are grown.

Carménère is most commonly found in Chile. It loves the hot climate here and is the signature grape variety of this country. Chile is the world’s largest producer of Carménère grapes. Other countries that have joined the race include the eastern regions of Italy, along with Argentina, New Zealand, and the USA which produce lesser amounts.

Flavors & Food Pairings

The wines produced by Carménère are full of red and black fruity notes that come along with a distinct smokiness when conditions are right. Herbal notes in the wine also come through on the nose along with a touch of dark chocolate on the palate. The well-rounded nature of this wine denotes that it is versatile when it comes to pairing with smoky barbecued foods and spicy Mexican meals. Or strong cheeseboard dishes which make a great match.

  1. Gamay (Beaujolais)

This grape variety is capable of producing very elegant wines. Gamay is most commonly found in blends named after the French appellation of Beaujolais. These wines are light in both, color and body. They are usually low in tannins, low in ABV, and have a high level of acidity. Taking advantage of the freshness in grapes, Gamay is best enjoyed young. However, this extremely rare red wine can also be served chilled.

Gamay is best suited to the granite-based soils of the Beaujolais region. Its origins lay well within the French border earlier. But now winemakers in Switzerland are also producing some great single varieties of Gamay wines that are light and fresh. Other cooler climatic regions in Canada and New Zealand are also getting into action.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Gamay wines are well known for their bright fruit flavors of blackcurrant and raspberry. They come along with red cherry aromas on the nose. This wine also has many floral notes as well including violet tones commonly found followed by earthy undertones. When it comes to pairing with foods, Gamay is a great all-rounder. It is particularly pleasant to crack open a bottle of Gamay on Christmas Day. It pairs very well with the mild turkey flavor along with peppery potatoes and cranberry sauce.

  1. Grenache (Garnacha)

This one is definitely an unsung hero of the wine world. Garnacha grape variety is used in both stunning blends and stand-alone wines. Grenache wines typically are medium-bodied, light in color, and high in alcohol.

Grenache or Garnacha is mostly grown in Old World wine regions. Understandably France, where it originates is the front-runner. Spain nowadays is also a big producer. Moreover, New World regions like Australia and the USA are also beginning to take it on as the main players.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Grenache wines typically have fruity notes of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry along with cinnamon on the palate. However, flavors can vary depending on the region where the grapes come from. Nevertheless, notes of orange peel and red grapefruit are pretty common along with slightly spicy notes. Grenache wines pair very well with flavorsome dishes packed with herbs and a little spice. Mexican meals would be a great match. A mild curry is also perfect for a lower-alcohol Grenache wine. Just make sure that you serve it slightly chilled. It will help in easing the heat of the food.

  1. Malbec

Think of big, juicy wines when you think of Malbec. They are ideal for big, juicy steaks. This full-bodied red wine comes with high tannins and high ABV. They are deep, rich reds that have a wonderful depth of flavor and are great for aging as well.

Originating in France, Malbec is still prevalent in the world-famous Bordeaux region. Nowadays it also seems to be thriving in the sun-soaked vineyards of Argentina. Other New World regions starting to turn out some truly impressive Malbec offerings include Australia and New Zealand.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Malbec wines are packed full of dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum. They are powerful and rich along with notes of pepper and tobacco that linger throughout towards a long finish. Sweeter notes of vanilla may also come through on the palate in the New World styles. Nevertheless, this red is a perfect match for any rich meaty meal. The high tannins of this wine will easily overpower food. So, pair it with a bold and flavorsome dish that can handle it. Including steaks or spicy dishes is a good idea. Lighter and medium-bodied varieties of this wine can also be paired with tuna steaks.

  1. Merlot

This is an easygoing red. It is known for being both, an extraordinary wine on its own and a great wine to create blends. Merlot typically produces a well-rounded, medium-bodied wine with low acidity and relatively high ABV. Cooler climatic varieties of Merlot have slightly higher tannins. Whereas the ones from warmer climates are full of fruitiness alongside lower tannins.

Merlot also originates from Bordeaux. However, it has now become widely grown across the globe. In both, the New World and the Old World regions. Nevertheless, France still remains the go-to place for this variety. Moreover, there are some really great Merlots coming from Australia and Chile as well.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Merlots are similar to Cabernet Sauvignon. They can vary in taste across the world. Packed with fruity flavors of blackberries, light red fruits, and plums, this red wine comes with notes of chocolate and fruit cake. Notes of spices and vanilla also come through with aging along with a velvety smooth texture. Pairing this red wine with food is a pretty simple proposition as Merlot is a good all-rounder. However rich dishes tend to work better with this red. Try duck and lamb or perhaps a roasted dinner.

  1. Nebbiolo

This is another bold red that may not be at the top when it comes to favorite reds. It is merely due to the fact that it is relatively unknown to most of the world. The Nebbiolo grape variety originates from Northern Italy. It produces some powerful, full-bodied wines with high tannins. However, these wines remain relatively pale in color.

Nebbiolo grapes are most commonly grown in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. They are extensively used to produce Barolo wines. These grape vines can be extremely fussy when it comes to climatic cultivating conditions. Nebbiolos are happiest on a hillside in the sun with clay or silt-based soils. They are rarely grown outside of this region for this particular reason. When it comes to the rest of the world, this grape variety has been taken on by very few winemakers. There are a handful of producers in Australia and California as this challenging variety only thrives in very specific geographical locations.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Nebbiolo wines on the nose are a bouquet of red fruit aromas with floral undertones of rose. With grippy tannins and flavors of leather on the palate, they tend to cling to your mouth. Followed by powerful notes of cherry and coffee, this red is not for the wimpy. Nevertheless, this vino pairs very well with food. You can think of rich, oily foods when it comes to that. Rustic Italian cuisines like bold pasta with rich sauces, drizzled in olive oil are a good choice. Then there is something a little more oriental like the Asian or Chinese fares that pair perfectly with this red wine.

  1. Nero d’Avola

This is yet another grape variety that is widely unknown. Nero d’Avola is a classic grape type that is predominantly cultivated in Sicily. It produces deep wines alongside a strong body with high tannins at a medium level of acidity. These wines were commonly used as blenders in the past to add body and color to mainland wines. However, nowadays they produce some great wines of their own.

Nero d’Avola vines thrive in the eastern part of Sicily. It loves the elevation where cooler temperatures help them to reduce the alcohol levels. It is no surprise as such that this unknown grape variety hasn’t been taken up by many new world winemakers. Nevertheless, there are a few vineyards across the world trialing this vine variety in Australia and the USA. Maybe it will be able to make a mark in the days to come.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Nero d’Avola reds are bursting with deep rich flavors of black cherry, liquorice, and tobacco. This full-bodied red wine is usually aged and exploding with bold flavors. However, some of these are kept fresh and young with less intense notes and lighter flavors of red fruits and plums. This wine pairs very well with food. Just think of standard red wine pairings of barbecued meats and rich beef stews with Nero d’Avola.

  1. Pinotage

This is a man-made grape variety that was first created in South Africa, Pinotage is a combination of Cinsault and Pinot Noir. And what an incredible mix! Pinotage produces rich, full-bodied wines with light to medium tannins. With low acidity and intense flavors. This red is a lovely, easy-drinking wine.

This grapevine still remains almost exclusive to South Africa. It is the second most planted grape variety in the country. Fortunately, Pinotage nowSys can also be found growing in very small quantities inside Australia.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Pinotage wine is packed with dark fruit flavors. It shows some hints of red berries. Older Pinotage vines produce rich and spicy vinos with savory flavors. This red wine results in a complex palate of leather and liqorice. It is full of character and leaves a long finish. You can ideally pair this wine with rich meaty dishes that can withstand the full-bodied nature. Also think of steak venison, or even a hearty stew if you like.

  1. Pinot Noir

This vino is notoriously difficult to grow. However. the results can be exceptional if you are willing to put in some hard work. Pinot Noir wines are light-colored, medium-bodied wines that have low tannins, Yet they are full of juicy fruit flavors. This red wine is also commonly used in making sparkling wines including Champagne.

Pinot Noir is known for being cultivated in the Burgundy region of France. Moreover, New World countries have also taken this on including Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. The warmer climatic conditions of these countries generally tend to produce full-bodied versions of this wine.

Flavors & Food Pairings

You can expect smooth red fruit flavors like raspberry and strawberry with earthier tones to finish when sipping this wine in a glass. The New World varieties, however, provide less earthy notes alongside more sweet fruit flavors. Pinot Noir wines pair very well with food, and they are versatile too. Try juicy pan-fried duck or any other game birds. Grilled salmon is really a good choice with a lighter variety and lower tannin wines if you want to go for fish. 

  1. Sangiovese

This is yet another grapevine that is difficult to grow and work with, It has gained a bad reputation over the past. But things are beginning to change now and Sangiovese is gaining acceptance. This wine style however varies depending upon where the grapes have grown. Normally, this red produces medium-bodied wines with high tannins that are very high in acidity. It is better when consumed young, although some wines are best aged for around 4 to 7 years of time.

With over 150,000 acres under plantation, Sangiovese grapes are best known for being grown in Italy. This fussy grape is pretty hard to come by outside of Italy. Only some very small amounts are being produced on the coasts of California and Washington in the United States.

 Flavors & Food Pairings

Sangiovese wines are packed with earthy flavors. You can expect to find cherry and fig on the nose, along with cranberry and plum on the palate. Hints of leather and spicy tones are added to the wine with light oak. It provides a more savory nuance. This unique red pairs well with food. You can think of herby chicken or tomatoey Italian pasta. They will help balance the savory notes in the red wine. 

  1. Shiraz (Syrah)

This is another popular black grape variety cultivated across the world. It is known as Syrah in Old World countries and Shiraz in the New World. Shiraz wines are known to have full body, high tannins, and medium acidity. Due to its thick, deep colored grape skins these wines display a deep purple hue. Moreover, despite being the same grape variety the wine style varies between the Old World and the New World. Syrah is more earthy in the Old World regions, while Shiraz is fruit-driven in the New World.

Originally Syrah is from France. It is still considered the king of the Northern Rhône. This area is internationally recognized as producing some of the best and most expensive Syrah grapes. With hot climate areas like the McLaren Vale, Australia is the biggest producer of this grape variety in the New World. It is well known for producing top-quality, fruit-driven Shiraz.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Syrah wines in the Old World are known for their herbaceous notes with hints of black pepper and spice. Aging however adds leathery tones to the drink. On the other hand, New World Shiraz is lighter and filled with blackberry notes alongside sweet licorice and tones of vanilla. The richness of this wine makes it a great match to go along with foods like burgers, ribs, and BBQ chicken wings. Hard cheeses also pair well with good acidity in the wine.

  1. Tempranillo

This thick-skinned red grape is the fourth most widely cultivated variety in the world. Tempranillo is the most-grown grape type in Spain where it originates. It produces medium to full-bodied red wines that are ruby in color when young. Subsequently, they turn more garnet due to aging. High tannins in the wine reasonably complement levels of acidity and high ABV. This variety is most commonly used as the base for producing the world-famous Rioja blends.

These grapevines thrive in the scorching heat of luscious wine regions in Spain. But they love the cooler nights outside of Spain. Tempranillo can also be found in Portugal as well as in hot South American regions like Argentina and Chile. A perfect climate also exists for this popular grape variety in the southern regions of Australia.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Tempranillo wines are complex and generally consist of deep layers of flavor. You can particularly find bold notes of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry in younger varieties. Moreover, aging usually adds notes of leather and tobacco as well. The finish however is normally long and smooth. It creates a deliciously drinkable wine. Younger varieties of this red work well with slightly more delicate dishes like mushroom-based dishes. The aged varieties of this classic red wine have an intense flavor. They pair extremely well with barbecued meat or steak. 

  1. Zinfandel (Primitivo)

Most commonly found across ponds, this is a grape variety full of history. It produces some sensational wines. Zinfandel is a full-bodied, rich, and reasonably powerful red with a high alcohol content alongside medium tannins and a bang of acidity.

Zinfandel is most often found soaking up the Californian sun. It is a slightly sweeter grape variety that thrives in the warm climate. Despite originating from Croatia, there are other places in the world as well where it can be found. Zinfandel gained the name Primitivo in Italy during the 18th century. These grapevines are also found in areas of Southern Australia.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Expect dark fruit flavors of blackberry, and blackcurrant alongside a touch of raspberry while indulging in a glass of Zinfandel wine. These red wines produced in warmer regions will display notes of black pepper and smoke as well. Thanks to the richness and sweetness of these wines, they are a great match for meaty meals that are big on flavor or come with a little spice.

A World On Rioja Wines

Made from Tempranillo grapes, Rioja is mainly known for its red wines. This region is well-known for having wines that age for a long time. Rioja wines are mostly blended with smaller amounts of wines made of Garnache, Graciano, and Mazuelo grape varieties. Nevertheless, these wines are rich and crowd-pleasing reds. They are also enjoyable when young although capable of aging as well.

Riojas wines are split into four classification levels namely Crianza, Genérico, Gran Reserva, and Reserva. However, all Rioja wines are dry wines and can conveniently converted into a fruity and easy-drinking style.

Flavors & Food Pairings

Rioja wines generally are medium to full-bodied with pleasing sweetness and balanced tannins. With low acidity and medium to high oakiness, they display rich flavors of dark berries and herbs. They go great with roasted leg of lamb, shellfish paella, and wild mushroom risotto. Made for special occasions, Rioja wines are also excellent with chestnut soup, duck confit, roasted squab, sautéed mushrooms, and winter or fall stews.

Wine & Dine

It is not always pleasing to consume wine by the glass alone. Red wine can also be used as an ingredient in your food. Or go for a red wine sauce with your dinner and still derive equal pleasure. Red wines also have a host of associated health benefits like in the treatment of headaches, reducing calories by killing the appetite, and more. 

No matter where you are from, if you are a wine lover you can always use it for a pleasant time by consuming it in the right amounts. It is delightful to know that wine enthusiasts around the world can mend their ways and live a disease-free life by drinking a glass or two of red, red wine.