7 BEST RED WINE VARIETALS IN 2024 (ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW)
Made with dark-coloured grapes, red wine can develop a broad range of flavours, textures and colour tones. Varying from sweet to dry, light-bodied to full-bodied, and ruby red to deep maroon, this variety of wine is widely versatile and complex, making it an exciting drop to drink.
With many different types of red wine being produced globally, there’s plenty to explore and understand. Whether you are new to red or looking to try more, we’ve shortlisted our favourite bottles to try in 2024.
How is Red Wine Made?
There are numerous intricate steps involved in the red wine-making process. Dictated by the winemaker themselves, each independent approach will decide the final flavour and overall appearance of the wine.
Once the grapes are harvested, they are crushed and destemmed. The juice then sits with the skins and the process of fermentation begins. The wine is then pressed to remove the skins and then aged to further develop flavour. Once at its decided readiness, the wine is bottled for distribution.
How to Drink Red Wine?
Best serve red wine in a red wine glass. The broader bases of these glasses help aerate the wine and enhance its independent flavour. Before drinking, swirl the glass to unlock the aromas and smell to appreciate its fragrance. Take a sip and circulate the wine slowly around your mouth to understand the flavour notes of the red.
7 Best Red Wine Types Worth Sipping in 2024
Try our pick of the top red wines to try.
1. Pinot Noir
Translating to ‘black pine’, these dark grapes come from Burgundy in France. Despite being a tricky grape to grow, the wine it produces is a delicious drinkable medium-bodied glass with flavour profiles of raspberry, cherry, vanilla, and sometimes mushroom. Perfect on its own, this balanced wine also suits a range of delicious dishes, including:
- Roast turkey
- Lamb chops
- Barbecue pork ribs
- Salami pizza
- Beef bourguignon
- Dark chocolate
- Brownies with vanilla ice-cream
2. Shiraz
Originating in France, this dark-skinned grape is now grown internationally and used to produce top-quality red wine. Depending on where and what climate the grape is grown in, the wine’s characteristics can vary. Warm climates create a full-bodied texture with notes of blackberry, plum, and cherry, whereas moderate climates produce a medium to full-bodied wine with notes of black pepper, mint and cedar oak. Both will pair deliciously with these dishes:
- Pork sausages
- Kebabs
- Cheese
- Dark chocolate cookies
- Raspberry pastries
3. Cabernet Sauvignon
This internationally popular grape variety originated in Bordeaux, France. With notes of blackcurrant, black cherry, blackberry, tobacco, green bell pepper, and vanilla, this bold red is the perfect way to top off a hearty meal. Try with:
- Mushroom risotto
- Eggplant parmigiana
- Baked potatoes
- Pan-seared fillet mignon
- Chocolate mousse
4. Merlot
A dark blue grape, this French variety is a very versatile pick. With flavour notes including plums, blackberries, cocoa, herbs and vanilla, this red is dry and sits between medium and full-bodied. Perfect to enjoy on its own or pair with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Sharp cheeses
- Tomato-based pasta sauces
- Beef burgers
- Chocolate cake
- Strawberry tarts
5. Sangiovese
With a bold fruity taste followed by a hint of spice, this Italian red is a delightful medium-bodied wine. Originating in Tuscany, this grape produces earthy aromas with notes ranging from red berries to deep smokey tones. Enjoy with rich Italian dishes including:
- Mushroom risotto
- Roasted lamb
- Pan-fried pork chops
- Tomato-Based pasta sauces
6. Malbec
First grown in France, this full-bodied wine comes from a vibrant purple grape. Often smooth and dry, this red has flavour notes of pomegranate, plum, raspberry, black cherry, and raisin. Sometimes blended with other grapes to build complexity, appreciate a Malbec wine on its own or pair with:
- Beef ragu with pasta
- Pork meatballs in tomato sauce
- Honey-glazed salmon
- Prosciutto pizza
- Mexican empanadas
- Dark chocolate mousse
- Strawberry tarts
7. Grenache
This versatile Spanish grape grows best in the heat and once ripened will produce big rich berry flavours, including black cherries, raspberries, and strawberries. With subtle zesty aromas of orange or grapefruit, this wine is a natural blender and makes for a perfect accompaniment to a meal. Try pairing with:
- Grilled chicken
- Seared scallops
- Slow-cooked beef brisket
- Indian curry
- Lemon meringue pie
Where to Buy The Best Red Wine in Australia?
Explore all the top red wine varieties at Dan Murphy's. Stocking a wide variety of regions, grapes and styles, it’s easy to discover your favourite brand. Shop at one of our 255+ stores nationwide or simply purchase online via the app or website for a range of convenient delivery options.
