Red Wines That Belong in Your Fridge
Alright Cru! Let’s talk temperature; it is everything in winemaking. From the overall climate you grow grapes in, to fermentation, temperature has a huge impact on the final results. Temperature is critical in transportation and storage--which is why we obsess over it.
It is just as important when that wine finally gets to the table too; serving temperature has a big impact on your experience.
Which is no wonder, if you have even glanced at a wine list at a restaurant in the last few years, you may have noticed a ‘new’ category called out: Chillable Reds -- Red wines that drink easy with a slight chill. They are thirst-quenching and slurpable, but offer more depth than a rosé and different fruit profile than white wine--sometimes you're just looking for those juicy red-fruited notes on a warm day.
One of the delights of our job is tasting with winemakers in the cellars where the wines are made and stored. In these cool, dim spaces, we’re often impressed by the lighter-bodied, bright and fruity wines that show off their best at these cooler temperatures, while the full-bodied, tannic reds need to warm up a bit.
We love having wines like this around - and here are some of the things we keep in mind when throwing a bottle of red in the fridge:
Lighter bodied wines with bright fruity flavors will sing at 55°F to 65°F
Lower tannin, because highly tannic wines served cold taste more bitter and astringent
Expressive Aromatics and Acidity to keep things lively
These kinds of wines bring the refreshment of rosé, but add a bit more personality to the mix. So... to take the guess work out of it for you, we’ve got 5 red wines you should make space for in your fridge.
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1 • Clos de Mez Fleurie Mademoiselle M 2022
Gamay is a classic choice to chill down. This one is loaded with bright strawberry and cherry fruit, lively acidity and plenty of depth. 48 bottles available
2 • La Casaccia Barbera del Monferrato ‘Giuanin’ 2022
Fermented in stainless steel so the exuberant fruit can shine, with a lipsmacking juicy-ness. Bramble-y blackberries and raspberries with a hint of citrus. 60 bottles available
3 • Sassotondo Rosso Cilliegolo 2023
This is one for those that like a little spice in their life. The crunchy red cherry and plum flavors are complemented with a hint of licorice and white pepper. 60 bottles available
4 • Cantine Pupillo Nero d’Avola ‘Re Federico' 2022
Dark plum married with red fruit, with a hint of savory herbs. An elegant and vivid wine with acidity that makes it pop. 24 bottles available
5 • Geraldine Louise Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2021
Pinot Noir is another classic red that can take a slight chill. Elegant and balanced, the darck cherry fruit is integrated beautifully with a supple texture. 48 bottles available