It’s time to challenge the rule that red wines are best consumed at room temperature.
Chilling certain red wines unlocks a refreshing, juicy dimension of flavour that’s perfect for warm weather dining or afternoons in the sun. The key is selecting wines with bright acidity, lower tannins, and fruit-forward profiles that won’t become harsh or astringent when served cool. Since Orange is a cool climate wine region there’s heaps of local options to try!
Pinot Noir and Gamay are the star candidates—wines like the See Saw Marge Gamay/Pinot Noir, ChaLou Pinot Noir with its vibrant red berry and cherry notes and the Heifer Station Pinot Noir showcasing elegant strawberry and raspberry characters could all be beautifully refreshing when lightly chilled.
Orange Merlot is another excellent option to try, look for Merlots offering soft tannins and subtle red fruit flavours that really sing at cooler temperatures. When you chill these wines to around 12-15°C, you’ll notice their vibrant berry flavours come alive. The cooler temperature tames any alcoholic heat, emphasises the wine’s natural acidity for a crisp, mouthwatering quality, and softens the tannins, making the wine feel silkier and more approachable. They pair beautifully with summer salads, charcuterie, grilled vegetables, or even enjoyed on their own as a refreshing aperitif.
