It’s probably a good time for us to explore the incredible variety of wines made from red grapes. Red wines offer complexity and richness, with a wide range of flavor profiles that complement many types of cuisine. Some are bold and robust, while others are delicate and nuanced — the choices are practically infinite.

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the wine world, it’s helpful — in fact, essential — to understand and appreciate the qualities and characteristics of the finest varietals from major winegrowing regions.

Bordeaux

The elegance of red wines from this region of France is legendary. In general, Bordeaux wines are blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

• Left Bank: Full-bodied, tannic reds (e.g., Châteaux Margaux, Haut-Brion)
• Right Bank: Softer, more Merlot-based offerings (e.g., Cheval Blanc)

Burgundy

Burgundy cultivates two main varietals — Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The region is divided into countless small growing areas, each with its own character.

• Finest Burgundian Pinot Noirs: Aromas of red berries, earth, and spice
• Famous producers: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (some bottles sell for tens of thousands of dollars!)
• Wallet-friendly alternatives are available for enthusiasts

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a powerhouse in the New World, producing wines with ripe fruit flavors such as currant, plum, and chocolate, often complemented by vanilla and toast from oak barrel aging.

• Notable producers: Opus One, Caymus, Andrew Geoffrey
• Known for: Heritage excellence among dozens of top producers

Tuscany and the Rest of Italy

The Sangiovese-based wines from Chianti are popular among American wine lovers, pairing perfectly with Italian cuisine. In Italy, wine is considered part of the meal, not just a drink.

Super Tuscans

Some Tuscan growers make wines from international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These wines cannot carry the official regional designation, but they offer rich fruit flavors, vigorous tannins, and significant aging potential.

• Examples: Sassicaia, Tignanello, Ornellaia

Rioja

Rioja wines from Spain are crafted from Tempranillo. Often aged in oak barrels for many years, these wines feature flavors of vanilla, spice, tobacco, and smoke that support deep red fruit notes like cherry and strawberry.

Choosing the Right Wine for You

Your preference depends entirely on taste:

• Bold, fruit-forward wines: Napa Cabernets, Super Tuscans
• Subtle, lighter wines: Pinot Noir

No matter the bottle, sharing wines with friends and discovering new varietals and regions is always rewarding.

New Favorites to Enjoy

• Sol Rei Private Reserve Red Blend Alta Mesa 2023 ($52) – Made from the little-known Mencía grape. Aromatic and age-worthy, perfect for Pinot Noir lovers. WW 89
• Stags’ Leap Petite Sirah Napa Valley 2022 ($30) – Historic Napa winery. Notes of raspberry and violet on the nose, flavors of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of mocha. WW 94
• Chapoutier Les Meysonnieres Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 2022 ($40) – 100% Syrah. Intensely purple with aromas of raspberry and violets. Flavors of stewed fruits with vanilla on the finish. WW 91

Jerry Greenfield is The Wine Whisperer — a wine author, educator, and consultant. Order his books, Secrets of the Wine Whisperer and Ask the Wine Whisperer, and read his blog at www.winewhisperer.com.