Planning a dinner date at home can be just as romantic, if not more, than a night out. You get to create a more thoughtful date by carefully choosing the music, the lighting, the vibe, and most importantly, the wine to set the mood. If you’re looking to impress your partner or mark a special occasion, a bold red wine can set the tone for an evening of warmth, connection, and indulgence.
Rich and full-bodied reds are ideal for date nights. They’re sensual, flavourful, and pair beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even decadent chocolate desserts. But with so many imported red wines available in the market, which one should you pick for your dinner date? That’s where we come in.
We’ve selected three award-winning imported red wines that bring boldness, depth, and sophistication to your dinner table. These bottles aren’t just good; they’re conversation starters. Whether you’re cooking a three-course meal or ordering in, these wines elevate every bite and every moment.
And to make your planning even easier, we’ve added a few tips below on how to create a cosy, memorable date night at home, from setting the mood to pairing your wine perfectly. So light the candles, cue the playlist, and let’s make it a night to remember, one bold red glass at a time.
Also Read: Best Cabernet Sauvignon Wines Under ₹5,000
Killibinbin Scream Shiraz
With a name that demands attention, Killibinbin Scream Shiraz delivers a flavour profile as dramatic as its label. Hailing from South Australia, this wine is a dark, brooding beauty with intense aromas of blackberry, plum, pepper, and chocolate. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and juicy with velvety tannins and a smoky finish that lingers long after the last sip. It’s bold, spicy, and confident—the kind of wine that makes a statement.
Pair it with chargrilled lamb chops, pepper-crusted steak, or a slow-cooked mushroom ragu. Its richness complements earthy, meaty flavours and sets the tone for an indulgent, luxurious dinner. This is the bottle to pour when you want the wine to be part of the romance.
Importer: Sonarys Co-Brands
Price: ₹5,410
Poggio Argentiera Maremmante Maremma Toscana DOC
If you’re aiming for rustic Italian romance, this Tuscan red blend is your secret weapon. Poggio Argentiera Maremmante combines Syrah and Cabernet Franc grapes from the coastal region of Maremma Toscana, offering a layered wine that’s juicy, fresh, and deliciously smooth. Expect notes of wild berries, violets, spice, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. It’s medium to full-bodied with a soft structure and a plush finish.
This wine is a dream with pasta, think beef lasagna, aubergine parmigiana, or a creamy mushroom fettuccine. It’s the kind of wine that whispers comfort and connection while still delivering depth and complexity. Pour it for a laid-back Italian-style dinner with all the charm and none of the effort.
Importer: Gusto Imports
Price: ₹3,640
Marqués de Cáceres Crianza Rioja 2020
From the heart of Rioja, Spain’s most iconic wine region, comes a red that’s all about balance and finesse. Marqués de Cáceres Crianza is made from Tempranillo grapes and aged in oak for over a year, resulting in a wine that’s rich yet restrained. It offers classic aromas of red berries, vanilla, and sweet spice, with polished tannins and a dry, elegant finish.
Serve it with tapas, roast chicken with rosemary, or a seared duck breast. This wine is all about old-world romance—subtle, nuanced, and deeply satisfying. Ideal for slow conversations, long dinners, and those lingering sips that stretch into the evening.
Importer: VBev
Price: ₹3,550
Also Read: Why You Should Decant Your Wines
Tips for Planning the Perfect Dinner Date at Home
Set the Scene
Dim the lights or light some candles. A cosy, ambient setting makes everything, from your food to your wine, feel more special.
Build the Vibe
Create a playlist of soft jazz, acoustic covers, or soulful classics. Music sets the emotional tone of the evening.
Plan Your Pairings
Match bold reds with equally bold dishes. Think red meat, grilled mushrooms, or richly spiced Indian curries. Want to keep it simple? A good cheese and charcuterie board works wonders.
Chill the Wine (Just Right)
Serve red wines at around 16–18°C. Too warm and the alcohol overpowers the flavours; too cold and you lose complexity.
Make It Memorable
Snap a quick photo, toast to something personal, or leave a handwritten note on the table. It’s the little touches that create magic.
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