Here in the southern hemisphere, the days are getting longer, the afternoons warmer, and we’re all getting that bit more excited about al fresco feasts with friends (especially as restrictions loosen up here in Melbourne).

While classic concepts of drinking seasonally might lead you to take red wine out of your wheelhouse for the bulk of the warmer months, we’re here to remind you that the only limit to what can be enjoyed is your imagination - and we think that getting creative is always the way to go!

Types of Red Wine

At its core, red wine is wine made from dark-skinned grapes, which includes the likes of commonly-seen varieties such as Shiraz (aka Syrah), Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Gamay, Nebbiolo, and many MANY more.

These days, expressions of red wine are as varied as the people who drink them: from juicy light reds, and, fresh red/white blends (which lend themselves perfectly to sitting in the esky at the park), to full-bodied Shiraz or firmly-structured Nebbiolos intended to sit in the cellar until your firstborn’s 18th (good on you!), and everything in between.

Producers all over the world are crafting their own expressions of these burgundy-coloured beauties from unique vineyards, grapes, and microclimates, and what we’re really here to say is: give red wine a chance, particularly in the warmer months!

Below is a small selection of different types of red wine - have a look through, try something new, and have a chat to our friendly staff next time you’re in store, they just might recommend one of their favourites that could become your favourite too!

Red Wines For Any Time

2019 Happy Sack Red-ish 1.5L, $32
**A blend of Central Victorian Cabernet Sauvignon, mixed with aromatic, spicy white grape varieties, all packaged into fancy goon sack for good measure! Fresh and juicy with red berries and a hint of herbaceousness, pop this in the fridge for a bit before you take us to the park, and bask in its deliciousness!

2019 Daniel Bouland Morgon Corcelette VV Sable Beaujolais Gamay, $56
**Coming from the sandy soils of Morgon's Corcelette, this Gamay is incredibly elegant, with floral aromatics, red cherry, plum, and a hint of tar. Drinks like a dream now, but will age with aplomb.

2020 Blood Moon Promise Schioppettino, $26
**An excellent Australian showing of this delicious Italian variety. This is pure berry juice, full of ribena, blackcurrant, a light smoky note, light grip, and great spice. Goes beautifully with a chill.

2018 SC Guillard Bourgogne Rouge, $60
**Ever wanted to know why Pinot Noir from Burgundy, France is so highly prized? This entry-level cuvée from Guillard in the Gevry Commune is a great place to start. Pure, vibrant, and complex, with blueberry, cassis, spicy fruit, and silky tannins.

2018 SC Pannell Basso Grenache, $28
**An exuberant, high-toned expression of Australian-grown Grenache. The vibrant, juicy palate has candied red fruits, succulent red currants & breezy tannins. This is one to pop, pour, and enjoy.

2017 Rodano Chianti Classico, $42
**Predominantly Sangiovese, with additions of Canaiolo and Colorino grapes - this is a phenomenal expression of the prolific Chianti region. For the full Italian experience, serve alongside a feast and enjoy with your nearest and dearest.

2018 Blackhearts Regional Series Heathcote Shiraz, $20
An excellent regional example of a richer-styled Heathcote Shiraz, with spiced plums, raspberry, full tannins, and a lick of pepper.

2014 Crawford River Cabernet Sauvignon, $62
**Outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon from one of Victoria’s best producers of the variety. Beautifully-weighted with mulberry and morello cherry, alongside liquorice, spice, and a well-integrated French oak character.