RED WINE

Red Wine

Red wine is loved for its rich flavours, depth, and huge range of styles — from light and fruity to bold and full-bodied. Popular varieties include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Grenache, each offering something different depending on the occasion, the food on the table, or simply your mood.

At The Melbourne Wine Store, our team hand-selects every red wine in this collection for quality, character, and value. We're based right here in Melbourne, so whether you need a bottle for tonight's dinner or you're building out a cellar, you're buying from people who actually taste what they sell — not just a warehouse catalogue.

Why Buy Red Wine From The Melbourne Wine Store

•          Locally based in Melbourne — our team tastes and stands behind every wine we list

•          Fast Melbourne metro delivery, with shipping available Australia-wide

•          Personalised recommendations — reach out and we'll help you choose the right bottle for the occasion

•          A curated range rather than an overwhelming big-box wall of stock

How to Choose the Right Red Wine

Choosing the right red wine is easy once you know what to look for:

•          Grape variety and flavour profile

•          Light, medium, or full-bodied style

•          Food pairing

•          Bottle size and occasion

•          Sweetness, acidity, and tannin levels

Popular Red Wine Varieties

Not sure where to start? Here's a quick guide to the varieties most people search for:

Shiraz — bold, peppery, and full-bodied, with dark berry and spice notes. Australia's signature red. Shop Shiraz →

Cabernet Sauvignon — structured and full-bodied, with blackcurrant, cedar, and firm tannins. Ages beautifully. Shop Cabernet Sauvignon →

Merlot — soft and approachable, with plum and dark cherry flavours and gentle tannins. Shop Merlot →

Pinot Noir — light to medium-bodied, elegant, with bright cherry and raspberry character. Shop Pinot Noir →

Grenache — juicy and fruit-forward, with strawberry and spice notes — easy drinking and versatile. Shop Grenache →

How to Serve Red Wine

Most red wines are best served slightly below room temperature, between 16°C and 18°C.

•          Light-bodied reds are best served slightly cooler, closer to 14–16°C

•          Full-bodied reds benefit from being opened or decanted before serving, to let the flavours and aromas develop

•          The right glass shape can noticeably improve the tasting experience

Types of Red Wine

Dry Red Wine

Dry red wines contain very little residual sugar and range from light and elegant to rich and full-bodied. Popular varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sangiovese.

Best food pairings: grilled steak, roast lamb, beef burgers, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, and hard cheeses.

Semi-Dry Red Wine

Semi-dry red wines carry a touch of natural sweetness, balanced by fresh acidity and soft tannins — versatile enough to pair with a wide range of dishes.

Best food pairings: barbecue chicken, roast pork, spicy Asian cuisine, tomato-based pasta, pizza, and mild cheeses.

Sweet Red Wine

Sweet red wines carry more residual sugar and rich, ripe fruit flavours — ideal for dessert or after-dinner enjoyment.

Best food pairings: dark chocolate, berry desserts, cheesecake, blue cheese, soft cheeses, and fresh fruit.

Fruity Red Wine

Fruity red wines are full of vibrant berry, cherry, and plum flavours. Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Merlot are known for their fruit-forward character.

Best food pairings: roast chicken, duck, grilled salmon, pasta, pizza, charcuterie boards, and creamy cheeses.

Sparkling Red Wine

Sparkling red wines combine lively bubbles with delicious red fruit flavours. Australian Sparkling Shiraz is a favourite for celebrations and festive occasions.

Best food pairings: roast turkey, glazed ham, barbecue meats, antipasto platters, festive desserts, and chocolate treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best red wine for beginners?

A smooth, fruit-forward style like Merlot or Pinot Noir is a gentle introduction — softer tannins and approachable flavours make them easy to enjoy without food.

What temperature should red wine be served at?

Most reds are best at 16–18°C, slightly below room temperature. Light-bodied reds can be served a little cooler, around 14–16°C.

How long does an opened bottle of red wine last?

An opened bottle typically stays good for 3–5 days if resealed with the cork and stored in a cool, dark place.

What's the difference between dry and sweet red wine?

Dry red wines have very little residual sugar, while sweet reds retain more, giving them a noticeably richer, fruitier taste.

Can I get red wine delivered same day in Melbourne?

Same-day and next-day delivery is available across much of Melbourne metro — check delivery options at checkout for your suburb.

Which red wine should I choose as a gift?

Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are reliable crowd-pleasers for gifting, especially in a well-presented bottle from a well-known region.

Explore More

Looking for something different? We also stock:

•          White Wine

•          Rosé

•          Sparkling Wine

•          Wine Gifts

•          International Wine