A half-filled glass of red wine next to a bottle of red wine in a silver bucket.

Discovery Series Explores Chillable Red Wines

It’s common practice to chill white wines such as pinot grigio, riesling, sauvignon blanc and chardonnay, but some red wines can also benefit from chilling.

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Characteristics of chillable reds.

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Chillable reds have low to medium tannins.

Reds with softer tannic structures chill best. If the tannins are too heavy they become too prominent.

Characteristics of chillable reds.

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Chillable reds are light- to medium-bodied.

The body of a wine is its texture on the palate. Medium-bodied reds tend to have balanced tannins and moderate acidity, while lighter-bodied reds tend to have higher acidity, lower alcohol content and fewer tannins, making pinot noir, gamay and lambrusco excellent selections for chilling.

Characteristics of chillable reds.

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How can chilling enhance red wine?

Chilling red wine can enhance its taste by mellowing alcohol, smoothing tannins and enhancing aromas and flavors. Reds that benefit from chilling are found throughout the grape-growing world, including areas in France, Italy, Spain and the United States.

Characteristics of chillable reds.

An ice-filled wine bucket containing multiple bottles, featuring a mix of red and white varieties.

The ideal temperature ranges for chilling.

Chilling light-bodied reds such as pinot noir and gamay at an ideal range of 50°-55° F can make them more balanced and approachable. Medium-bodied reds such as a lighter, youthful tempranillo can also benefit from chilling at an ideal range of 55°-60° F to enhance aromas and flavors.