Red Wines for Winter: Comfort in a Glass

As the days grow shorter and the chill settles in, there's something deeply comforting about a glass of red wine. Winter is the season for hearty meals, crackling fires, and bold wines that warm from the inside out. Whether you're entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet night in, red wine brings richness and depth to the colder months.

Why Red Wine is a Winter Favourite

Red wines are known for their fuller body, higher alcohol content, and complex flavours - traits that make them ideal for winter drinking. They pair beautifully with the season’s comfort foods: think slow-cooked meats, roast dinners, aged cheeses, and rich stews. The warmth of a good red also complements cozy settings, making it feel like a hug in a glass.

Top Red Varietals to Enjoy This Winter

Shiraz: Bold and full-bodied, Shiraz is a winter classic. With notes of dark berries, spice, and pepper, it’s the perfect partner to grilled meats, lamb shanks, or a smoky barbecue if you’re brave enough to grill in the cold.

Merlot: Soft, smooth, and versatile, Merlot offers juicy plum and black cherry flavours with a gentle touch of spice. It’s a great choice for pasta bakes, mushroom risottos, or even your go-to midweek dinner.

Cabernet Sauvignon: If you're after structure and intensity, Cabernet Sauvignon delivers. With firm tannins and layers of blackcurrant, tobacco, and cedar, it pairs well with rich dishes like beef bourguignon or a classic Sunday roast.

Primitivo: A hidden gem for winter, Primitivo (also known as Zinfandel) is plush, fruit-forward, and slightly spicy. Its lush character makes it ideal for slow-cooked ribs, hearty casseroles, or a charcuterie board by the fire.

How to Enjoy Red Wine in Winter

Serve at the right temperature: Don’t overheat your red! Most reds show best just below room temperature (around 15–18°C). Too warm and you’ll lose the freshness; too cold and the tannins will taste harsh.

Decanting helps: Give your wine time to breathe, especially bold reds. Pouring into a decanter or even letting it sit in the glass for 15–30 minutes will unlock deeper aromas and smoother textures.

Get cozy with food pairings: Winter is all about indulgence. Match your red wine with rich, warming dishes to elevate both the food and the wine.

Winter Favourites from Irvine Wines

At Irvine Wines, our Eden Valley reds come into their own in the cooler months. From the elegant complexity of our Grand Merlot to the bold structure of The General Shiraz, these wines are crafted to bring warmth and depth to your winter table.

Looking to explore? Try our Eden Valley Cabernet Franc for something aromatic and slightly floral, or pour a glass of Altitude Merlot to enjoy with a slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Each bottle captures the beauty of Eden Valley and the comfort we all crave in winter.

Wrap Up in Red

Winter is the perfect excuse to slow down, savour the moment, and sip something special. Whether you're exploring new varietals or reaching for an old favourite, red wine brings a sense of warmth, flavour, and connection. So light the fire, pull out your favourite blanket, and raise a glass to the season.

Cheers to winter, and all the red wines that make it better.