There are approximately 350 different varieties of grape used to make red wine around the world, but some are more common than others. The most popular varieties of red wine grape include Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz, Grenache, Malbec, and Zinfandel.

Red wine has a rich, tart taste that’s often quite deep and fruity. Red wine made from red grapes tends to have notes of red fruits, such as cherries, cranberries, and red plums. In contrast, wines made from black grapes can have notes of blackcurrants, blueberries, jam, prunes, and figs. Every vintage tastes unique, so order red wine from a variety of grapes and regions to find your favourite.

Red wine should be served between 12˚C to 18˚C for the best drinking experience. Pour into a wine glass slowly and savour each mouthful to experience the subtle notes of the grape.

Different types of red wine pair well with different kinds of dishes. Red wine is viewed by many as more of a winter drink than white wine, so it’s especially delicious with rich, hearty dishes and roast meats. Pinot Noir, Grenache, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon in particular are perfect with a Sunday roast or even your Christmas dinner.

Serve Malbec or Shiraz with steak, and opt for Tempranillo if you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to vegetarian food.

When you order red wine online, lay it on its side in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight as soon as it arrives at your home. If you keep red wine upright, there’s a risk of the cork drying out and shrinking, which can create space for oxygen to creep into the bottle, spoiling the wine.

Once opened, red wine can typically last for up to 5 days, as long as it’s sealed with a cork or wine stopper. Keep the wine in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight for the best results. If your red wine starts to develop bubbles or turns noticeably darker in colour, discard it and open a new bottle instead.

You can buy red wine with 0.5% ABV in our collection, which is the perfect drink if you’re the designated driver or want to keep a clear head. The Wolf Blass Zero Shiraz is made from whole berries and is a gorgeous low-alcohol red wine with a subtle hint of spice.