
New to Red Wine?
With over 10 varietals to choose from, ranging from medium-bodied to full-bodied, The Barrel Room has the perfect red at every price point. See where your preference lands using our Wines by Flavor Guide, and whet your appetite with some of our favorite recipe pairings below!
FAQ
1. Which red wines are the best to drink?
For full-bodied and bold reds, popular varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Zinfandel. If you prefer medium-bodied, fruit-forward reds, go with Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Red Blends. Need more help? Our Wines by Flavor Guide can point you in the right direction.
2. Which red should I drink if I want something sweet?
We’ve got several sweet reds to choose from. For luscious raspberry notes, try Barefoot Sweet Red Blend, and for notes of tart plum and toffee, try Franciscan Napa Valley Port.
3. Can I cook with red wine?
Absolutely! Cooking with red wine enhances the flavors of savory, bold dishes, like marinated steak and beef stew. We recommend using Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or Merlot when cooking—the acidity of these wines tenderizes meat. When simmered, the alcohol evaporates but leaves all the delicious tasting notes.
4. Do I need a special glass?
It depends on the type of red wine you’re pouring. For a bold red, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel, a larger glass with a wide opening is best; this allows the aromas and flavors to breathe (it’s also a great glass for Merlot). For Grenache, a standard red wine glass with a smaller opening is ideal to soften the spice notes, while Pinot Noir is divine in a Burgundy glass, as its larger bowl highlights the wine’s delicate aromas.
5. When do I drink red wine?
Red wine can be enjoyed throughout the year, but we do have some suggestions! Pair the fall season with a fruit-forward, oaky Pinot Noir. Enjoy a full-bodied, rich Cabernet Sauvignon in winter and a Genache with floral and herbal notes in the spring. Come summer, pour a Merlot that has layered notes of ripe berries.