6th February 2023 | Cork Talk | 3 minute read
There is a common misconception that red wine should always be served at room temperature. This wine myth is one that we are keen to dispel!
Red wines are often full of complex aromas and flavours which can be inhibited or damaged by serving it at the wrong temperature. This is why it is so important that red wine be served at its optimal temperature.
Red wine should be served between 12 and 18 degrees, depending on the type of red wine.
Fuller red wines like Shiraz, Bordeaux and Malbec are best served between 15 and 18 degrees, a little cooler than room temperature. This keeps the tannins and acidity balanced. This would also apply to most ports and fortified wines.
Lighter red wines like Beaujolais, Pinot Noir and Grenache are better served at around 12 degrees. This keeps the juicier fruit flavours vibrant and reigns in the acidity to keep them nice and smooth.
If red wine is too warm it can affect the levels of acidity and therefore the structure of the wine. If the balance is lost then it can affect the whole overall flavour of the wine.
Although you don’t want to serve red wine at room temperature, it’s also important that you don’t over chill it. You should aim for a temperature that is lower than room temperature but not ice cold.
Obviously the perfect way to keep your wine at the optimal temperature for serving is to keep it in a wine cooler, but this is a luxurious purchase that not many people have. Wine cellars are also great but again, not many people are able to have one.
Keeping red wines in the fridge for a short while before serving can be an effective way to cool them. Light-bodied red wines can be placed in the fridge for up to 45 minutes before serving, while full-bodied reds can be refrigerated for up to 90 minutes.
If you remove your wine from the fridge and decant it for 30 minutes before you want to drink it this will help to open up the aromas properly and it should be about the right temperature.
We have over 350 delicious red wines for you to choose from. From light and juicy Beaujolais and Pinot Noir to full and fruity Shiraz and Merlot, we’ve got it all.
