There’s truly nothing like cozying up next to chestnuts roasting on an open fire with a glass of winter wine in hand. We’ve already outlined which white wines we love to drink in the wintertime, but now it’s time to cover the classics - the best red wine for winter.
Curious about your wine preferences? Take our quick 7-question quiz, and get matched to wines you'll love this winter!
The best red wine for winter
When deciding which red wine to drink this winter, think full bodied. We usually reserve lighter bodied reds like Pinot Noir and Gamay for chilling in the summertime, but when the weather starts to chill, there’s nothing like cozying up with a substantial red that warms you up.
1. CABERNET SAUVIGNON
We’re not completely sure why Cabernet Sauvignon strikes us as the winteriest of winter wines. Perhaps it’s the full body or grippy tannins that wrap you in like a warm hug. Maybe it’s the dark fruit flavors with a touch of cinnamon that perfectly complement nights by the fire. No matter what it is, Cabernet is the best red wine for cold weather.
2. MALBEC
Similar to our friend Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec is a rich, full-bodied red wine with notes of plum and black cherry. Most notable, Malbec is known for its hint of chocolate and silky tannins. May we suggest mixing it up in a red wine hot chocolate?
3. SHIRAZ
Unlike Cab and Malbec, Shiraz (the Australian Syrah) is known for its bold, jammy flavors. You’ll notice notes of dark fruit and perhaps even some black olive or gaminess. Syrah is a great wine to pair with a warm, meaty winter dinner.
4. ZINFANDEL
Spicy and jammy, Zinfandel is a medium-bodied red with notes of blackberry and stewed strawberry. You’ll notice the spice in flavors of cinnamon or even tobacco, rounding out an already wonderful winter warmer.
5. Carménère
You may not have heard of Carménère before, which makes it a perfect red to add to your list of winter wine! Known for its notes of peppercorn and herbaceous nature, Carménère historically hailed from the vineyards of Bordeaux.
If you’re curious about Carménère’s pepper notes, you’re in luck. Try Bright Cellars Dancing Juice Carménère with flavors of cherry, plum, and strawberry with notes of black pepper and sweet vanilla in the finish. Simply email concierge@brightcellars.com to request it in your next box!
In Vino Finito
Which winter red wine is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to take the quiz and see if you match with any of these lovely winter reds!
