Summer barbecues are so much fun—the smoky aroma of the grill, the laughter of friends, and the sizzle of marinated meats and veggies coming alive over open flames. While beer and cocktails often steal the spotlight at outdoor gatherings, a bold red wine can be the unexpected star of your outdoor feast. The trick? Picking fruit forward reds that can handle the heat, match the spice, and elevate the smoky, charred flavours of your grilled favourites. If you’re ready to switch things up this barbecue season, here are three award-winning imported red wines for barbecues that are tailor-made for summertime grilling, complete with delicious food pairings to help you plan your next menu.
Why Red Wine Works So Well at Barbecues
You might think red wine and summer don’t mix—but think again. When the food is grilled, smoky, spicy, and charred, a red wine with structure, ripe fruit, and good acidity is exactly what you need to balance those bold flavours. Many red wines offer a fine mix of enjoyable taste, refreshing acidity and approachability, making them ideal companions for barbecue menus.
Whether it’s succulent grilled meats, tandoori vegetables, or fresh seafood on skewers, the right red brings out the best in every bite—and adds an element of sophistication to the table. Three tips to serve red wines at a summer barbecue:
Slightly Chill the Reds – Serve red wines slightly chilled to keep them fresh and vibrant in the heat.
Go For Lighter Styles- Choose lighter styles of red wines like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc, among others, as they will complement the smoky and charry flavours of the dishes.
Avoid Over-Decanting – On warm days, red wines open up quickly; a short swirl in the glass is enough to release the bouquet without overheating.
Also Read: How To Enjoy Wine: 5 Tips You Must Keep In Mind
The Best Reds for BBQ Season
Raeburn Handcrafted Pinot Noir Sonoma County 2021
This delightful Pinot Noir from Sonoma County is a silky, expressive red that brings elegance and depth to any barbecue spread. With notes of ripe cherry, raspberry, and subtle baking spice, it’s layered with hints of vanilla and toasted oak from careful ageing. This American Pinot Noir offers a medium-bodied structure with soft tannins, making it a perfect match for grilled dishes that don’t overpower—think charred mushroom skewers, herbed chicken, or grilled salmon. Its vibrant acidity lifts rich flavours, while the delicate spice complements smoky marinades beautifully. A crowd-pleaser with finesse, this wine adds a touch of sophistication to summer gatherings without trying too hard. It’s balanced, versatile, and effortlessly enjoyable.
Importer: Monika Alcobev
Price: ₹6000
Chapoutier La Bernardine, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2021
Chapoutier La Bernardine, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a bold, expressive red from one of the Rhône Valley’s most iconic appellations. Made predominantly from Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre lending depth, this wine opens with aromas of ripe plum, dark cherry, garrigue herbs, and subtle spice. On the palate, it’s rich and full-bodied, showing layers of black fruit, pepper, liquorice, and earthy undertones wrapped in silky tannins. It’s a fantastic match for robust dishes—pair it with lamb seekh kebabs, hamburgers, or grilled aubergine for a decadent barbecue experience. The wine’s complexity and balance allow it to stand up to intense flavours while offering a long, elegant finish. Perfect for those who enjoy a structured red with both power and finesse.
Producer: VBev
Price: ₹10900
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Château Teyssier Montagne-Saint-Émilion 2019
This medium-bodied red from the esteemeed Bordeaux region brings elegance and approachability to the table. Made primarily from Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc, it opens with inviting aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, and a hint of cedar. On the palate, expect smooth layers of dark berries, subtle spice, and earthy undertones, supported by fine, velvety tannins. This wine strikes a beautiful balance between fruit richness and classic structure, making it incredibly food-friendly. Pair it with mushroom stroganoff, grilled paneer, or herb-crusted lamb for a refined meal. The wine’s restrained power and soft finish make it ideal for those who appreciate understated complexity. A classic Right Bank red that’s both versatile and charming.
Importer: In Vino Veritas
Price: ₹5975
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