5 Best Red Wine Types: Finding the Perfect Fit for Any Occasion

Red wine is one of the most popular and versatile alcoholic beverages in the world that can be enjoyed on its own, paired with food, or used in cocktails and cooking. Whether you are looking for a full-bodied, bold wine or a light, fruity wine, there are so many varietals available that you will always be able to find what you need.

Our Recommendations

1. Cabernet sauvignon: Chateau Macquin Saint-Georges-Saint Emilion 2019
2. Merlot: Chateau Moulin des Blais Cotes de Bourg 2017
3. Pinot noir: Bridlewood Pinot Noir
4. Malbec: Catena Zapata Malbec
5. Shiraz/syrah: Domaine Clarendon Syrah

1. Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet sauvignon (cab-sav) is the most planted grape in the world and one of the most famous red wine types. It produces full-bodied wines with high tannins and acidity, and aromas and flavours of black fruits, cassis, cedar, tobacco, and complex spices. Cabernet sauvignon is often blended with other grapes, such as merlot and cabernet franc, to create complex and balanced wines.

When to Drink It

Cabernet sauvignon is a great choice for any occasion that calls for a bold and elegant wine.

Best pairings

• Red meats (especially fatty or grilled)

• Hard cheeses

• Dark chocolate

2. Merlot

Merlot is the second most-planted grape in the world and one of the most approachable red wine types. It produces medium-bodied wines with low to medium tannins and acidity, and aromas and flavours of red fruits, plum, chocolate, vanilla, and herbs. Merlot is often blended with cabernet sauvignon to soften its edges and add complexity.

When to Drink It

Merlot is a versatile wine that can suit many occasions and palates.

Best pairings

• Poultry (chicken or duck)

• Pastas

• Pizza

• Salads

3. Pinot Noir

Pinot noir is one of the most delicate and difficult grapes to grow and convert to wine. It produces light-bodied wines with low-to-medium tannins and high acidity accompanied by aromas and flavours of red fruits, flowers, earth, mushroom, and smoke. Pinot noir is rarely blended with other grapes as it has a distinctive personality that can be easily overwhelmed.

When to Drink It

Pinot noir is a wine for connoisseurs who appreciate its subtlety and elegance.

Best pairings

• Seafood (such as salmon or tuna)

• Chicken

• Pork

• Lamb

• Mushrooms

It pairs well with seafood, such as salmon or tuna, as well as chicken, pork, lamb, and mushrooms.

4. Malbec

Malbec is a grape that originated in France but became popular in Argentina. It produces full-bodied wines with medium-to-high tannins and acidity with aromas and flavours of black fruits, violet, leather, smoke, and pepper. Malbec is sometimes blended with other grapes, such as cabernet sauvignon or merlot, to add structure and complexity.

When to Drink It

Malbec is a wine for adventurous drinkers who like intense and spicy wines.

Best pairings

• Grilled meats (especially beef or lamb)

• Curries

• Chilli

5. Shiraz/Syrah

Shiraz/syrah is a grape that goes by different names depending on where it’s grown: in France and other European countries, it’s called Syrah; in Australia, South America, and elsewhere, it’s called Shiraz. It produces full-bodied wines with high tannins and acidity with aromas and flavours of black fruits, black pepper, licorice, and chocolate.

What to Pair It With

Shiraz/syrah is a wine for fun-loving drinkers who like bold and peppery notes.

Best pairings

• Charcuteries

• All cheeses

• Stews

• Roasts

It pairs well with charcuterie and cheese as well as meat dishes like stews or roasts.

3 Tips for Choosing the Best Red Wine for the Occasion

1. Consider the Food You’re Eating

As a rule of thumb, try to match the weight and intensity of the wine with the food. For example, a light-bodied wine will go well with a light dish, such as a salad or fish, while a full-bodied wine will go well with a heavy dish, such as a steak or lasagna. You can also look for complementary or contrasting flavours between the wine and the food. For example, a fruity wine will complement a fruity dessert, while a spicy wine will contrast with a sweet dish.

And if you ever get stuck, just refer to our recommendations in this article!

2. Consider the Season and the Mood

Sometimes, the best way to choose a wine is to think about what suits the occasion best. For example, a light-bodied wine might be more refreshing in summer and a full-bodied wine might be more warming in winter. You can also think about what kind of mood you want to create—a delicate wine might be more romantic, while you can increase the festivities with a bold cab sav.

3. Consider Your Personal Preference

When all else fails, the golden rule of wine is that your personal preference trumps everything else. You should never be afraid to experiment with different styles and varietals until you find your favourites, but if you know that you dislike the sharpness of a merlot, then don't buy a merlot.

Explore the Diversity of Red Wine

Red wine is a wonderful drink that can enhance any occasion, and there are so many varietals to choose from. By learning about the different types of red wine and how they taste, you can make better choices for yourself and your guests. Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to wine; the best one is the one you enjoy!