Top 5 red wines you need to know this autumn

Welcome, my fellow wine lovers! As autumn looms and summer comes to an end, I'm finding myself reaching for that glass of red. There's something about darker and colder evenings that depicts for me the image of sitting in front of a roaring fire with a glass of delicious red wine in my hand...  I can't quite see white wine in this picture somehow!

However, many of my girlfriends - and it is a woman thing I find - struggle with red wine. I have some that just don't like it and others that find it gives them more of a sore head in the morning than white or rose! Red wines aren't necessarily for everyone even if you do, like me, love the romantic notion of a glass of red in front of a roaring fire!

Whether you enjoy it or not, I encourage everyone to give a few very different reds a try to make a truly informed decision! For me personally there was a time when I said "I don't like Shiraz". I found it too bitter and sharp for me, and honestly, I think I'd just had bad examples of Shiraz 'down pub'! But then I got over myself and tried a good Shiraz, and although it still wouldn't be my first choice of red wine, I hold up my hands and say "I have changed my tune"!

So let me introduce you to five red wines you should know. I love to hear your views and opinions on wine as much as I enjoy sharing mine, so please share this post and comment on your favourite red! What will you be supping this autumn - an old faithful or a new variety? 

 

The Bold Classic Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is often called the king of red wines, and for good reason. This full-bodied wine boasts rich flavors and a robust structure that wine lovers adore.

Wool Punda Cabernet is a great example of this varietal's power. It offers a deep ruby color and intense aromas of black currant, cedar, and a hint of vanilla.

It's full of flavors of blackberry, plum, and sometimes a touch of green bell pepper. It goes wonderfully with a big hearty stew! It will not overpower flavours but enhance them.

The Elegant Touch of Pinot Noir

In contrast to Cabernet's boldness, Pinot Noir brings a lighter, more delicate profile to the table. This grape variety is known for its finesse and subtle complexity.

Pinot Noir often displays a lighter ruby color and on the nose you get red berries, cherries, and sometimes earthy notes like mushroom or forest floor.

In the mouth you might taste red fruits like strawberry and raspberry, along with hints of spice and sometimes a slight smokiness. It's a very versatile choice for a dinner party as it will pair well with most dishes.

Merlot: The Crowd-Pleaser

Merlot is often praised for its approachable, smooth character. It's a great choice for those new to red wine or anyone who enjoys a softer red.

The Pere et Fils French Merlot showcases the variety's typical characteristics. Smell-wise you'll often find aromas of red fruits like cherry and plum, sometimes with hints of herbs.

Taste-wise, Merlot tends to be fruity. It can have notes of chocolate or vanilla, and it's smoothness makes it an easy-drinking wine that pairs well with a variety of foods or is also a great wine for enjoying during a night out with your friends (unfortunately it will stain your teeth though!).

Spicy Shiraz Adventure

Shiraz, also known as Syrah in some regions, is a wine that packs a flavorful punch. It's known for its bold fruit flavors and peppery kick.

Kindred Spirits Shiraz exemplifies the variety's characteristics beautifully. Take a big sniff and you'll find aromas of blackberry, plum, and often a hint of black pepper or spice.

Taste-wise, Shiraz typically offers flavours of dark fruits, sometimes with notes of chocolate, tobacco, or even leather in more complex versions. 

Malbec: The Deep and Rich Global Favourite

Malbec, particularly from Argentina, has gained popularity for its rich, full-bodied character. It offers a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other red wines. I often suggest Malbec as a wine to try with that friend who just doesn't think she likes red wine! 

The Somewhere Else Argentinian Malbec is a great introduction to this variety as it's not as big and powerful as other Malbec's I have tried. On the nose you'll pick up dark fruits like blackberry and black cherry, often with floral notes like violet.

Taste wise, Malbec is a wine that will satisfyingly coat your whole mouth with it's flavors of plum, blackberry, and sometimes hints of cocoa or leather.