Blog
Red wine is a favourite among wine enthusiasts in India and there’s a good reason for it. Along with its attractive colour, red wines offer a variety of experiences that cater to both inquisitive palates and the ones that like to stick to their favourites. From a delicate French Pinot Noir that has zingy acidity and nuanced flavours to bold Australian Shiraz that packs a punch or the earthy Italian Sangiovese that’ll leave you craving for another glass, the versatility in style, structure and flavours is breathtaking in red wines.
No wonder wine collectors are always on the lookout for superior-quality red wines that’ll not only add value to their collection but also bring depth and range to it. However, you don’t have to be a serious wine collector to keep a few bottles of good reds handy. Any wine enthusiast can curate a selection featuring some award-winning red wines so that you can pop them open anytime you are entertaining guests or if you simply want other oenophiles to notice that you have a fantastic taste.
Tips to store red wines:
Collecting wines is a long-term commitment which commands you to put care into storing your label. Poor storage conditions can spoil wine and leave them undrinkable. It can also cause damage to the bottle, cork or label of your wine which can greatly impact its value. To maintain proper storage conditions, always keep in mind what you are up against.
You must protect your red wine from these five enemies:
❌ UV rays in direct sunlight: This causes your wine to age at a faster rate
❌ Heat: Can cook your wine and leave it with a stale and flat taste
❌ Cold: Very low temperatures can dry out corks and expose the wine to oxygen in the air
❌ Humidity: Promotes growth of mould
❌ Vibrations: Speeds up chemical reactions in the wine and lead to premature ageing
To protect your red wines, always store them in a cool and dark place away from vibrations. Since India is a tropical country with hot temperatures, you need to invest in a good wine refrigerator or wine cabinet. A wine cooler or refrigerator keeps wine bottles at their service temperature. Unlike your regular refrigerator, a wine cooler brings down the temperature of your beverage gradually and maintains an appropriate level of humidity so that its cork does not dry out.
Some wine coolers run on a thermos-electric system, and those with compressors have special vibration absorption systems that prevent chemical changes in wines. A wine cooler is perfect for enthusiasts with a small collection and they are available in various sizes and attractive designs to suit your requirements.
If you have a large collection which requires both storage and ageing, we recommend investing in a wine cabinet that has different temperature zones to perform different functions. Its glass front also helps you showcase your wine collection in style.
For red wines in your collection that you intend to consume soon, you can store them at their service temperature (15-18°C). But for red wines that you intend to age, you have to store them between 10-15 °C. To prevent mould development, always clean your wine cooler or cabinet regularly. This will also allows you to check every bottle for signs of damage etc.
Here are 5 red wines that’ll add a wow factor to your collection:
Butternut Pinot Noir 2021:
The 2021 Butternut Pinot Noir is a charming and approachable wine, showcasing the varietal’s signature elegance and versatility. This Pinot Noir entices with its array of red fruit flavours, including strawberry and raspberry, accented by subtle notes of vanilla and spice. The palate is smooth and well-balanced, with gentle tannins and a finish that is both satisfying and easy on the palate. The wine’s subtle aromas demand that it be paired with dishes that have sublime flavours, like a tender Murgh Makhani or a creamy and mildly spiced Dal Bukhara.
Price: ₹5499
Imported By: Nishi Wines
Demarie Langhe Rosso DOC 2020:
The Demarie Langhe Rosso 2020 is a harmonious blend of Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto, showcasing the diversity and richness of the Langhe region in Piedmont. This wine offers a delightful medley of red and black fruits, with prominent notes of cherry and blackberry, accented by hints of spice and earth. The palate is well-rounded, featuring smooth tannins and a balanced finish that elegantly combines the characteristics of each varietal. The wine pairs well with rich dark meats like Lamb Chops or Pork Ribs as it cuts through the fattiness of these preparations.
Price: ₹4050
Imported By: Monika Alcobev
Sensi Boscoselvo Brunello Di Montalcino, DOCG 2017:
A wine meant for great occasions, this wine has a strong body, a long intense smell and a bold taste with hints of vanilla and tobacco. Its fruity and floral bouquet is wonderfully balanced by notes of spice and balsamic. You can also make out hints of small red berries, pomegranate, red orange and coffee. The wine is zingy on the palate and its soft mouthfeel complements its fresh fruity flavours. This 2017 vintage begs to be paired with meaty and hearty red meat preparations like baked lamb, and stewed and braised meats.
Price: ₹8699
Imported By: Gusto
Fratelli Wines ‘Sette’ 2022:
This wine is a sophisticated blend that marries the expressive Sangiovese with the dignified Cabernet Sauvignon, embodying the innovative spirit of Indian winemaking. ‘Sette’, Italian for ‘seven’, symbolises the unity of the founding brothers and the diverse vineyards that contribute to this blend’s character. The ‘Sette’ 2022 expresses finesse and vibrancy, with the Sangiovese contributing distinctive raspberry and violet notes, while the Cabernet Sauvignon provides an elegant framework with its lush blackcurrant flavours. The interplay of subtle vanilla, silky tannins, and a lively finish creates a wine that is both dynamic and harmoniously balanced.
Price: ₹2000
Producer: Fratelli Wines
Sula Vineyards ‘Rasa’ Cabernet Sauvignon NV:
Sula Vineyards’ ‘Rasa’ Cabernet Sauvignon is an elegant, complex and structured red wine which offers a deeply satisfying experience. Rich with blackcurrant flavours and dark cherries, this Cabernet Sauvignon has notes of vanilla along with a hint of pepper, culminating in a smooth and well-rounded finish. This wine’s bold flavours of Indian cuisine. Its vivacious character complements the richly spiced and hearty dishes like Mutton Rogan Josh. Vegetarian dishes such as Baingan Bharta or a spicy Dal Makhani also resonate with the depth and vigour of this Cabernet Sauvignon.
Price: ₹2100
Produced by: Sula Vineyards
Do you want to experience more award-winning wines? Click here and check out the winners of India Wine Awards 2023, featuring some of the best international and domestic wines available in the Indian market.
