Best red wine: our favorite picks for 2025
Whether you’re sharing dinner with friends or enjoying a quiet night in, red wine is always a good idea. From the earthy elegance of Pinot Noir to the bold structure of Barolo, 2025 brought us some exceptional bottles. Here’s our picks of the best red wine this year—plus tips to enjoy them right!
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Our top 10 recommended red wines for wine lovers in 2025
What is red wine and how is it made?
What truly makes each red wine special is the grape variety. Its origin and characteristics shape the wine’s profile in distinct ways. Some of the most appreciated varieties include:
After harvest, the winemaking process unfolds in three key stages:
- Crushing – The grapes are pressed, and the juice stays in contact with the skins to extract color, tannins, and aroma.
- Fermentation – Natural sugars are converted into alcohol by yeast.
- Aging – The wine rests in barrels or stainless steel, developing complexity and harmony.
And the color? The rich red hue comes naturally from the grape skins, which release pigments during fermentation. The longer the contact with the skins, the deeper and more intense the color, from light ruby to deep garnet.
From light to bold: red wine by body
During a tasting, one of the first things evaluated is the wine’s body. But what exactly does “body” mean? It refers to the wine’s structure and the sense of fullness it creates in your mouth. The body is influenced by non-volatile components like sugars, minerals, and other substances that shape the wine’s texture and overall character.
Wines are typically grouped into three body types based on how “heavy” or “light” they feel:
- Light-bodied – Fresh and easy-drinking
- Medium-bodied – Balanced and versatile
- Full-bodied – Rich, intense, and structured
Pro tip: swirl the wine in your glass. The way it moves and the “legs” it leaves behind can give you clues about its body—even before you take a sip!
From Pinot Noir to Syrah: types of red wine explained
- Body: it refers to the weight or mouthfeel of the wine, ranging from light to full-bodied.
- Sweetness: it indicates the amount of residual sugar left after fermentation.
- Production style: it includes winemaking techniques like barrel aging or fermentation methods.
| Body Type | Top Producers | Grape Varieties | Structure & Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light-bodied | Domaine Drouhin, Jean Foillard | Pinot Noir, Gamay, Frappato | Delicate, bright acidity, low tannins, red fruits |
| Medium-bodied | Château Petrus, Casanova di Neri | Merlot, Tempranillo, Sangiovese | Balanced, well integrated acidity, moderate tannins, red and dark fruits |
| Full-bodied | Napa Valley, Bruno Giacosa | Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Nebbiolo | Rich and bold, deep acidity, robust tannins, intense dark fruits and spices |
Light bodied red wine
A light bodied red wine is typically low in tannins, high in acidity, and lower in alcohol. It often features fresh red fruit flavors and a crisp, refreshing profile. These wines are easy to drink and pair well with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, or grilled vegetables.
Medium bodied red wine
A medium bodied red wine strikes a perfect balance between richness and lightness. They have moderate tannins, acidity, and alcohol, with flavors that often include ripe fruits, gentle spice, and a smooth texture. Versatile and food-friendly, they pair well with everything from pasta to grilled vegetables.
Full bodied red wine
A full bodied red wine is known for its richness, intensity, and strong tannins. They often showcase deep fruit flavors and gain added complexity from oak aging. These are the best red wines to pair with steak and are well-suited for aging.
Types of red wine by sweetness
- Sweet wines, like Lambrusco Dolce, are fruity, approachable, and great for beginners, pairing well with desserts and spicy dishes.
- Semi-sweet wines, such as Brachetto d’Acqui, offer a balance of sweetness and acidity that pairs nicely with spicy foods or soft cheese.
- Dry wines, such as Nebbiolo or Cabernet Sauvignon, are more structured and complex, with bold tannins that pair perfectly with rich, savory dishes.
| Sweetness | Top Picks & Producers | Common Varietals |
|---|---|---|
| Light-bodied | Cabernet by Silver Oak | Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese |
| Medium-bodied | Zinfandel by Alexander Valley | Zinfandel, Bracchetto |
| Full-bodied | Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico a Roberto | Corvina |
You can find this information on the red wine sweetness chart.
Non alcoholic red wine
Are you unable to drink alcohol for various reasons but still love the taste of wine? Here’s the solution: non alcoholic red wine provides the same flavors as traditional red wine, minus the alcohol! Made by removing or reducing alcohol to less than 0.5%, it lacks the same intensity of alcoholic red wine, but it still allows you to enjoy the taste without the effects.
Our choice of non alcoholic red wines:
- Clean Cabernet Sauvignon by Waterbrook
Food pairing suggestion: barbecue dishes, cheese platters, hearty pasta dishes - Zero Point Five Pinot Noir by Josef Leitz
Food pairing suggestion: dark chocolate and desserts, vegetarian stews, charcuterie - 0% Red Blend by Giesen
Food pairing suggestion: grilled meat, burgers, grilled vegetables
Red wine food pairing essentials: the perfect matches
Choosing the right wine often comes down to pairing it with the perfect dish. To make the best choice, it’s important to understand the wine’s body. Full-bodied wines pair wonderfully with rich dishes such as steak or hearty stews. For lighter, more delicate dishes—or a classic pasta—opt for lighter wines or medium-bodied ones like Merlot.
Below is a table of the best red wine food pairing examples based on the wine body, designed to help you find the perfect match.
| Food | Red Wine / Grape | Type & Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken, turkey, duck, rabbit | Barone Ricasoli Roncicone Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2021 Sangiovese |
Dry, soft tannins, vibrant acidity, medium to full-bodied |
| Cured meats & cold meats | Bricco dell’Uccellone Barbera d’Asti – Braida – Barbera | Dry, well-integrated tannins, high acidity, full-bodied |
| Steak, roasts, braised meats | Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto – Bruno Giacosa – Nebbiolo | Dry, fruity, firm tannins, full-bodied |
| Pasta dishes, roasts, grilled tuna, and vegetable-based dishes | Valle Dell’Acate Vittoria Il Frappato 2022 – Frappato | Dry, fruity, soft and smooth tannins, freshness, medium-bodied |
| Aged cheese, parmigiano reggiano, cheddar, gouda | Shafer Relentless – Shafer Vineyards – Syrah/Shiraz | Dry, smoky, firm tannins, balanced acidity, full-bodied |
| Pasta, club sandwiches, light bites | Château Haut-Brisson, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru – Château Haut-Brisson – Merlot | Dry, moderate to high acidity, fruity, firm tannins, medium-bodied |
| Comfort food, burger, pizza, baked casseroles | Chappellet Signature, Cabernet Sauvignon – Chappellet Winery – Cabernet Sauvignon | Dry, rich dark fruit, structured tannins, full-bodied |
| Fish, seafood, and shellfish | Russian River Valley, Pinot Noir – La Crema – Pinot Noir | Dry, fruity, grainy tannins, light-bodied |
Red wine in the USA: a look at the producing regions
Red wine in the USA is produced in all 50 states, but the most famous regions are on the West Coast. California dominates, making up about 90% of the country’s wine production. Renowned regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma are known for bold Cabernet Sauvignon and a variety of other grapes.
Oregon and Washington also stand out, particularly for their Pinot Noir and Syrah. Depending on the vintage, the U.S. ranks between fourth and fifth globally in wine production. Thanks to its innovation and favorable climate, the U.S. continues to be a major player in the global wine industry.
| Region | Top to Try | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Napa Valley, CA Cabernet Sauvignon |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 – TO | Structured, spicy, oaked and full-bodied |
| Sonoma County, CA Zinfandel |
Sonoma Zinfandel 2022 – Day | Bold and restrained, juicy, smooth |
| Paso Robles, CA Rhône blends |
Côte à côte 2020 – L’Aventure | Full-bodied, complex and savory |
| Santa Rita Hills, CA Syrah |
Donna’s Block Syrah 2019 – Melville | Structured, mineral, savory flavor |
| Willamette Valley, OR Pinot Noir |
Estate Pinot Noir 2022 – Willamette Valley Vineyards | Medium-bodied, balanced acidity, fruity |
| Columbia Valley, WA Merlot |
Columbia Valley Merlot 2019 – L’Ecole 41 | Full-bodied, firm and fruity |
Red wines from Italy: tradition in every glass
Italy is renowned for its exceptional red wine making, each shaped by the country’s diverse terroirs:
- In Piedmont, the cool, foggy climate helps Nebbiolo grapes in Barolo develop complex aromas of rose, tar, and earth.
- Tuscany’s warm hills allow Sangiovese to shine with bright cherry flavors and firm structure, especially in Chianti and Brunello.
- In Veneto, drying Corvina grapes for Amarone results in rich wines with deep, raisin-like flavors.
Red wines from France: a reflection of the country’s terroirs
France sets the global standard for red wine, offering unmatched variety from region to region:
- In the north, Burgundy crafts delicate Pinot Noir wine with earthy, floral notes
- The Rhône Valley delivers bold, peppery Syrah
- The Loire Valley produces lighter reds like Cabernet Franc with herbal finesse
- Down south, Languedoc blends bring ripe fruit and rustic charm
- Bordeaux remains the benchmark, with age-worthy blends combining power and elegance
Several red wine types undergo extended aging—both in barrel and bottle—which enhances their tannic structure, aromatic complexity, and long-term cellaring potential.
Popular red wine varieties: a regional breakdown
Red wine isn’t just one drink—it’s a world of styles, each with its own personality. What makes each wine unique? It starts with the grape, but the region and winemaking techniques also play a major role. In fact, the same grape can taste completely different depending on where it’s grown and how it’s produced!
Some popular red wine varieties by region include:
Understanding the basics makes choosing—and enjoying—wine more approachable. Below, we break down some of the most common red wine names, highlighting their flavor profiles, structure, and ideal food pairings.
Bordeaux red: perfect wine balance
Bordeaux, France’s iconic wine region, is famed for its red blends made from grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These wines are known for their balance and aging potential, with a medium to full body and refined tannins.
The structure and complexity of Bordeaux make them the best red wine for cooking stew, as well as an excellent pairing for hearty, savory dishes like roasted meats, lamb, or grilled steak.
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1. Domain de Chevalier 2020 - Bordeaux
Flavor: Blackberries and ripe blackcurrants, with of crushed flowers earthy notes
Body & structure: Medium to full-bodied, ultra fine tannins, elegant aging potential
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2. Chateau Pontet-Canet 2016
Flavor: Notes of rose petals, black fruits and cold tobacco
Body & structure: Medium to full-bodied, chalky and natural tannins, needs about 7-8 years aging
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3. Ornellaia Le Serre Nuove Bordeaux 2022
Flavor: Chocolate and red fruits with strawberry notes
Body & structure: Full-bodied, harmonious tannins, will reach full maturity in 10 years
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4. Dominus Estate 2021
Flavor: Dried earth, rose petals, black fruits and aromatic herbs
Body & structure: Full-bodied, fine grained tannins, it will need a minimum of 7-8 years but will evolve gracefully for 30+ years
Cabernet Sauvignon red: bold, structured and unrivaled
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full bodied red wine, known for its bold structure, deep flavors, and aging potential. It pairs wonderfully with rich dishes like steak or grilled lamb. California’s Napa Valley is a top region for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.
Some of the most expensive red wine brands, such as Screaming Eagle, are crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, making them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
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1. Cabernet Sauvignon Château La Freynelle 2022
Flavor: Blackcurrant, spice, hints of vanilla
Body & structure: Medium - bodied, silky tannins
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2. Antica Mountain Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Flavor: Blackcurrant, blackberry, blueberry, Asian spices
Body & structure: Full-bodied, firm tannins
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3. Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Flavor: Black currant, forest botanicals, tobacco, mocha
Body & structure: Full-bodied, firm tannins
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4. Quintessa 2021
Flavor: Cassis, black cherry, lilac, anise, savory herbs
Body & structure: Full-bodied, ultra fine tannins
Barolo red wine: Italian nobility and great longevity
The Barolo wine price can vary widely, depending on the producer and vintage, with some bottles reaching premium prices.
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1. Terre del Barolo Vinum Vita Est Barolo 2017
Flavor: Dried leaves and earth, wild strawberries
Body & structure: Full-bodied, formed tannins
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2. Bruno Giacosa Barolo 2018
Flavor: Fresh red fruits, mushroom
Body & structure: Medium to full-bodied, round tannins
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3. Marchesi di Barolo Barolo Barbaresco Tradizione 2019
Flavor: Ripe fruit, dog roses, tobacco, and spices
Body & structure: Medium-bodied, fine tannins
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4. Cappellano Barolo Chinato
Flavor: Licorice, marjoram, coriander and rhubarb
Body & structure: Full-bodied, structured tannins
Shiraz (Syrah) red wine: complexity and lasting impression
This versatile wine often boasts firm tannins and strong aging potential, making it a perfect match for aged cheeses and rich, flavorful dishes.
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1. K Vintners Cattle King Syrah 2015
Flavor: Blackberry undergrowth, tanned leather, tobacco, crème de cassis
Body & structure: Full-bodied, firm tannins
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2. Le Macchiole Paleo 2020
Flavor: Black raspberry, cherry, spice, dark chocolate
Body & structure: Full-bodied, velvety tannins
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3. Maison Chapoutier Crozes Ermitage Varonniers 2015
Flavor: Dark currant, fig, and blackberry confiture
Body & structure: Full-bodied, velvety tannins
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4. Hickinbotham The Peake Cabernet-Shiraz 2018
Flavor: Blackberry pie, dark chocolate, black plum, toasty oak
Body & structure: Medium to full-bodied, fine tannins
Legendary red wines: the art of collecting and aging
Collectible wines offer several advantages:
- Limited production: often crafted in small batches or under exclusive labels, making them highly rare.
- Historic vineyards: sourced from renowned vineyards with unique terroir that imparts distinctive characteristics.
- Investment value: these wines often appreciate over time, making them appealing as assets.
- High cost: the premium price tag can make them inaccessible for many collectors.
- Limited availability: these wines are frequently reserved for select clients with limited allocations.
- Storage requirements: to preserve their value and quality, proper cellar conditions and long-term care are necessary.
Red wine serving temperature and other tips
The table below makes this process easy by providing key details like :
- Alcohol content (ABV)
- Tannin and acidity levels
- Aging potential
- Ideal red wine serving temperature
| Wine Name | ABV | Tannin / Acidity | Aging Potential | Serving Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenuta di Capraia Chianti Classico riserva 2019 | 14% | High tannin, medium acidity | 5 – 10 years | 60.8°F – 64.4 °F |
| Pala Essentija Bovale 2020 | 14% | Medium tannins, high acidity | 10 – 15 years | 60.8°F – 64.4 °F |
| Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco 2020 | 14% | High tannins, high acidity | 15 – 20 years | 60-65 °F |
| Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2022 | 13,8% | High tannins, medium acidity | 5 – 10 years | 60-65 °F |
| Pio Cesare Barolo 2020 | 14,5% | Soft tannins, balanced acidity | 15 – 25 years | 60-65 °F |
How to properly store red wine?
- Store wine in a cool, dark place, ideally between 55–65 °F
- Lay bottles on their side to keep the cork moist
- Maintain a humidity level of 60–70%
- For opened bottles, use a vacuum pump or inert gas
- Avoid fluctuating temperatures, direct sunlight, and vibrations
How to choose the best red wine for beginners
- Pinot Noir
Body: light and smooth, with soft red fruit.
Best for: seafood, salmon, or veggie dishes. - Merlot
Body: medium, soft, and fruity.
Best for: pasta, burgers, or grilled veggies. - Zinfandel
Body: bold, jammy, with a hint of spice.
Best for: BBQ, pizza, or spicy foods.
- Check the labels – New to red wine? Look for labels that say “smooth,” “fruity,” or “easy-drinking” to start.
- Decide based on sweetness – Prefer a little sweetness? Try Lambrusco. For drier wines, go for Merlot.
- Choose by occasion – Casual BBQ or dinner? Grenache works well. For a special evening, opt for Cabernet Franc.
- Pair with food – Light reds like Frappato pair with poultry or roasted veggies. Full-bodied reds like Barolo complement steak or grilled meats.
Inside the ratings: what makes red wine truly great?
- Aroma : the smell of the wine, especially fruity, floral, or spicy scents.
- Color : the wine’s hue and depth, hinting at its age or grape variety.
- Structure : the wine’s framework—tannins, acidity, alcohol, and body.
- Balance : how harmoniously the wine’s elements work together.
- Aging potential : how well the wine can improve over time in the bottle.
But ratings alone don’t tell the full story. What truly sets a wine apart is often its regional identity and terroir—the unique mix of climate, soil, altitude, and local tradition that shapes its character. Here are a few examples:
- Barolo wine from Italy’s Piedmont is known for firm tannins and dried rose notes
- Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is bold and polished, thanks to California’s warm sun
- Pinot Noir from France’s Burgundy region is shaped by limestone-rich soils and centuries of tradition
FAQs Best red wines
Pinot Noir is often considered the best red wine for its elegance, smooth texture, and versatility. Nevertheless, Barolo and Bordeaux wines tend to win most international competitions thanks to their structure, aging potential and complexity, earning top spots among wine lovers.
The top 10 types of red wine include Barolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah/Shiraz, Zinfandel, Malbec, and Sangiovese. These red wine types differ in flavor, body, and tannin levels, offering a wide range of taste experiences—from bold and structured to smooth and fruity—making them favorites for various pairings and wine lovers worldwide.
Red wines can range from dry to sweet, depending on residual sugar levels. Most, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, are dry. However, some types—such as Lambrusco or certain styles of Zinfandel—can be semi-sweet or sweet. The final taste depends on the winemaking process and the amount of sugar left after fermentation.
Yes, organic red wines may contain natural sulfites, but they usually have fewer added sulfites than conventional wines. For a truly low-sulfite option, look for bottles labeled “no added sulfites” or “sulfite-free.” Keep in mind, though, that such wines are less common and may have limited availability depending on the region.
In moderation, red wine may offer health benefits due to antioxidants like resveratrol and flavonoids, which support heart health. However, excessive intake can be harmful. To enjoy any potential advantages, red wine should be consumed responsibly and always within the context of a balanced, healthy lifestyle and not as a health remedy.
Yes, many red wines—especially bold types like Barolo, Bordeaux, and Cabernet Sauvignon—age well, gaining complexity and depth. In contrast, lighter red wines such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais are best enjoyed young, when their fresh, fruity profiles shine. Aging potential depends on structure, tannins, and how the wine was made.
After opening, red wine usually stays fresh for 3 to 5 days when properly sealed and refrigerated. Lighter reds like Pinot Noir may spoil faster, while fuller-bodied wines with more tannins can last longer. Using a wine stopper or vacuum pump can help preserve flavor and aroma.
A full bodied red wine offers a rich, weighty texture with higher alcohol content—typically above 13.5%. These wines feel dense on the palate and deliver bold, concentrated flavors, often featuring dark fruit, spice, and oak notes. Classic examples of full-bodied red wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Malbec.
Medium bodied red wines offer a balanced texture, with moderate alcohol and tannin levels. They provide smooth, versatile drinking experiences, making them ideal for pairing with a variety of dishes. Merlot and Sangiovese are classic examples of medium-bodied reds, known for their easy-drinking style and compatibility with diverse foods.
Light bodied red wines are characterized by their delicate nature, with lower alcohol and tannin levels. They offer a soft, refreshing mouthfeel and often feature vibrant red fruit flavors like cherry or cranberry. Popular examples of light-bodied reds include Pinot Noir and Gamay, which are known for their finesse and drinkability.
The sugar content in red wines varies by style. Most dry red wines contain less than 2 grams of sugar per glass. However, sweeter varieties may have higher sugar levels depending on fermentation. If you’re mindful of your sugar intake, it’s best to check the label for specific details.
Red wine is made from dark-colored grapes, with skins left during fermentation, giving it its color and tannins. White wine is made from green or yellow grapes, with skins removed early. Red wines are typically fuller-bodied and richer, while white wines are lighter and crisper, with varying sweetness levels.