Red Wine

Red wine is a type of wine made from red grapes, which are dark purple to black in colour when they are unripe. It is produced by the complete or partial fermentation of crushed grapes, generally leading to an alcoholic content of 15%–20%. It can range from slightly dry to very sweet, and is typically paired with dishes that have strong flavours such as game, red meat, and strong cheeses.

Red wine has a long and rich history. The earliest known evidence of wine production comes from Georgia, where wild grape vines were found growing around 9,500 BC. Ancient Egyptians are thought to have been the first to cultivate red grapes, and it is believed that they used them in religious ceremonies. 

Romans were also early adopters of red wine, and they made it a part of their everyday lives. During the Middle Ages, red wine became very popular in Europe because it was seen as a luxurious drink. In fact, during the Crusades, red wine was even considered sacred because it was believed that it could protect soldiers from harm. 

During the 19th century, red wine began to gain popularity in America. In 1825, John Jacob Astor opened the first American winery, and by 1875, there were more than 1,000 wineries in the United States. Today, Americans consume more red wine than any other type of alcohol. 

One of the most famous red wines is Chianti Classico. Originally from Florence, Italy, Chianti is now produced all over the world and is one of the most popular brands of red wine.

Types of red wines

There are many types of red wines, but each has its own unique characteristics. Here are three of the most common types: 

  • Zinfandel: This wine is made from a blend of different types of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is usually light in colour with a fruity taste and sharp acidity. Zinfandel is often served cold with food or used in mixed drinks. 
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile wine that can be served cold or room temperature. It's typically made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and other white grapes, such as Chardonnay or Muscadelle. The wine has a delicate flavour and low acidity, making it ideal for pairing with seafood or poultry dishes. 
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular types of red wines. It's typically made from a blend of cabernet sauvignon and other red grapes, such as Merlot.

The different types of grapes used for wine production

When it comes to wine, there are many different types of grapes used. Red wine is made primarily from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, while white wine is typically made from the Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Reds are generally more complex tasting than whites, and vary greatly in their flavour profiles based on where they're from. 

Why we drink red wine

Red wine is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. But what is the story behind this beloved drink? Red wine has a long and complex history, one that goes back to ancient times. Here are five reasons why we love red wine: 

  1. Red wine is full of antioxidants: A study from the University of California at Davis found that Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir wines had the highest levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants can help protect against heart disease, cancer, and other age-related conditions.
  2. Red wine is a source of natural energy. In addition to being packed with antioxidants, red wine also contains glucose (sugar) and energy-boosting compounds like caffeine. This makes red wine a perfect choice for energy drinks or after dinner drinks.
  3. Red wine contains healthful nutrients like fibre and vitamins A and C. Many red wines are also high in polyphenols (antioxidants), which provide health benefits such as lowering cholesterol levels and protecting against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
  4. Red wine can improve your moods. Several studies have found that people who drink red wine are more relaxed.

Refine Product Search Refine Product Search

Penfolds Grange Shiraz 2014 Giftbox 750mL -10%
Penfolds Grange Shiraz 2014 Giftbox 750mL
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv Grange is arguably Australia’s most celebrated wine. Crafted with intensely structured shiraz grapes for an Australian style recognised as one of the world’s great wines. With an unbroken line of vintages from the experimental 1951, Grange demonstrates the synergy between shiraz and South Australia.
$1,15999 $1,28888
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Impossibly rich & layered Varietal Shiraz Style Powerful & iconic Our Notes As one of Australia's great cult wines and a fairly uncontroversial contender for the world's best wine, The Grange needs no introduction. The 2019 is a rare all-Shiraz expression. From The Winemaker Ring in the Year of the Dragon with one of the world's most celebrated wines. The first commercial release of Grange coincided with the Year of the Dragon, bringing a unique sentiment to this release. Continuing an unbroken lineage from the very first experimental...
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Mulberry, raspberry, fresh blackcurrant, licorice Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Ripe & firm From The Winemaker Encapsulating Max Schubert’s dream of making a great Australian red wine that could last at least 20 years, Bin 707, our landmark cabernet, carries the legacy of our pioneering spirit. With our limited edition gift box, this makes the perfect gift to celebrate milestones and achievements. Ready to be opened when the moment arrives. A cabernet reflection of Grange. Full-bodied with proven cellaring potential, the 2021 shows the essence of...
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2021 Lunar New Year Gift Box Magnum 1.5L -10%
In stock
1.5L @ 14.5% abv Give an auspicious gift with Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz - three symbolises new beginnings, eight symbolises prosperity and nine symbolises longevity. Encapsulating a sentiment of luck and longevity, the Bin 389 1.5L magnum release makes a statement gift to be shared with friends and family this Lunar New Year. Bin 389 was often referred to as ‘Baby Grange’, in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure...
Brokenwood Graveyard Shiraz 2013 750ML -10%
Brokenwood Graveyard Shiraz 2013 750ML
In stock
Brokenwood Graveyard Shiraz 2013 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Jim Barry The Armagh Shiraz 750ML -10%
Jim Barry The Armagh Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Jim Barry The Armagh Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.1% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Tahblik 1860 Vines Shiraz 750ML -10%
Tahblik 1860 Vines Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Tahblik 1860 Vines Shiraz 750ML ABV :12.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 750ML -10%
Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
St Hugo Barossa Valley Shiraz 750mL (case of 6) -23%
In stock
Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Earthy, red fruit, dark cherry & spicy oak Varietal Shiraz Style Bold & complex From The Winemaker A superb example of classic Barossa Shiraz. Bold, full-flavoured and complex, it offers great depth and silky tannins. Magnificent drinking now but will reward medium-term cellaring. About the Winery St Hugo is a premium collection of Australian wines, prized for their power, elegance and excellence. The story behind St Hugo is steeped in history, born to a pioneering family of the revered Barossa wine region.
$28245 $36534
Mount Langi Shiraz 2010 750ML -10%
Mount Langi Shiraz 2010 750ML
In stock
Mount Langi Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Kilikanoon Attunga 1865 Shiraz 750ML -10%
Kilikanoon Attunga 1865 Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Kilikanoon Attunga 1865 Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Deep, layered & nuanced Varietal Shiraz Style Pure Barossa Our Notes The Bin 798 "RWT" is a take by Penfolds, who have always been firmly in the old-school Australian camp of regional and varietal blending, on the more modern single-region single-varietal wine. As much a stunner as the more traditional Penfolds offerings but tending towards deep, dark and nuanced rather than the signature powerhouse approach. Presented here with stylish gift box. From The Winemaker RWT stands for ‘Red Winemaking Trial’. No longer a trial, this is a wine that...
Wolf Blass Platinum Label Shiraz 2016 750ML -10%
Wolf Blass Platinum Label Shiraz 2016 750ML
In stock
Wolf Blass Platinum Label Shiraz 750ML ABV :5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Torbreck Barossa Valley The Factor Shiraz 2018 750ML -10%
In stock
Torbreck Barossa Valley The Factor Shiraz 2012 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Schild Estate Moorooroo 2012 Shiraz 750ML -10%
Schild Estate Moorooroo 2012 Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Schild Estate Moorooroo 2012 Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Henschke Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
In stock
Henschke Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Taylors The Pioneer Shiraz 2012 750ML -10%
Taylors The Pioneer Shiraz 2012 750ML
In stock
Taylors The Pioneer Shiraz 2012 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds Rwt Shiraz 750ML -10%
Penfolds Rwt Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Penfolds Rwt Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
E & E Black Pepper Shiraz 2015 750ML -10%
E & E Black Pepper Shiraz 2015 750ML
In stock
E & E Black Pepper Shiraz 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML -10%
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML
In stock
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Dry River Pinot Noir 2017 750ML -10%
Dry River Pinot Noir 2017 750ML
In stock
Dry River Pinot Noir 2017 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Teusner Righteous FG Shiraz 2017 750ml
In stock
Ochota Barrels Home Pinot 2021 750ml
In stock
Weight: 1.300 kg
St Hallet Old Block Shiraz 2015 750ML -10%
St Hallet Old Block Shiraz 2015 750ML
In stock
St Hallet Old Block Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.6% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz Rocket Gift Tin 2019 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv Since the beginning, Penfolds has been looking to the stars. Dreaming of what could be beyond. Their new limited edition rocket tin celebrates this pioneering spirit of going beyond, rather than accepting the status quo. Give No Ordinary Gift.
Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz Rocket Gift Tin 2019 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv Since the beginning, Penfolds has been looking to the stars. Dreaming of what could be beyond. Their new limited edition rocket tin celebrates this pioneering spirit of going beyond, rather than accepting the status quo. Give No Ordinary Gift.
$16999 $18888
Grant Burge Meshach Shiraz 750ML -10%
Grant Burge Meshach Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Grant Burge Meshach Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Reschke Empyrean Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 750ML -10%
In stock
Reschke Empyrean Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Elderton Command Barossa Valley Shiraz 2016 750ML -10%
In stock
Elderton Command Barossa Valley Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.6% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Wynn Coon Michael Shiraz 2014 750ML -10%
Wynn Coon Michael Shiraz 2014 750ML
In stock
Wynn Coon Michael Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Yering Station Reserve Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Yering Station Reserve Pinot Noir 750ML
In stock
Yering Station Reserve Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Eileen Hardy Shiraz 2016 750ML -10%
Eileen Hardy Shiraz 2016 750ML
In stock
Eileen Hardy Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
In stock
Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.7% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Jacob's Creek Double Barrel Shiraz 750mL (Case of 6) -10%
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Cedar, blackberry & ripe plum Varietal Shiraz Style Full & ripe From The Winery: The full, generous flavours of classic Barossa Shiraz are enhanced by careful use of aged Scotch whisky barrels for finishing. The intense nose offers cedar, vanilla bean and buttered toast with notes of pecan nut and roast cashew. An attractive, savoury palate of blackberry and ripe plum with integrated charry notes and a lovely soft finish.  Enjoy with a pan-seared scotch fillet of beef wrapped in smoky bacon.
$14175 $15745
In stock
Abbona Marziano Winery Dogliani, D'Alba, Barolo, Lange Italy. ​The history of the Abbona winery is full of hard work and challenges, but also loyalty to tradition and passion for experimentation. At the heart of the story are the hills of the Langhe and hard work in the vineyards, but also the territory of Dogliani and one of its most extraordinary products: Dolcetto. 1900's Papà Celso - A great story starts with a memorable beginning. That of the Abbona winery is represented by the hard, brilliant work of the first Marziano Abbona and his son Celso. Forefathers of the family and founders of the core of their business, both men...
Irvine Grand Merlot 750ML -10%
Irvine Grand Merlot 750ML
In stock
Irvine Grand Merlot 750ML ABV :14.4% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :Switzerland
Hardy's Thomas Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Hardy's Thomas Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
In stock
Hardy's Thomas Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Dalvhinnie Eagle Shiraz 2010 750ML -10%
Dalvhinnie Eagle Shiraz 2010 750ML
In stock
Dalvhinnie Eagle Shiraz 2010 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Houghton Jack Mann Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Houghton Jack Mann Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
In stock
Houghton Jack Mann Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2019 (750mL) -8%
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2019 (750mL)
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Earthy, dried fruit, hints of molé Varietal Shiraz Style Rich & plush Our Notes The St Henri, aged in older wooden vats, matures with a less intense oak influence than other barrel-aged Penfolds reds, allowing more grape character to shine through. Notes of chocolate and coffee shine through and will continue to develop with age. From The Winemaker St Henri is a time-honoured and alternative expression of shiraz, and an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. It is unusual amongst high quality Australian red wines as it does not rely on any new oak....
$13650 $14909
Penfolds Barossa Valley Limited Edition Explorer Gift Pack -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv The Barossa Valley is like nowhere else on earth. An iconic wine region, a stronghold of shiraz and a unique geological site with soil dating back more than 200 million years. With the limited edition Barossa Valley Explorer pack, we celebrate the best of this famed region with two different expressions. Bin 150 is a stylish and contemporary shiraz born from the ancient soils of Marananga, while Bin 138 is a plush and approachable blend of shiraz, grenache and mataro. Give no ordinary gift with this unique travel pack. The Wines: Bin 150 is born from the ancient soils of Marananga, which lies very close to the centre...
Penfolds Barossa Valley Limited Edition Explorer Gift Pack -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv The Barossa Valley is like nowhere else on earth. An iconic wine region, a stronghold of shiraz and a unique geological site with soil dating back more than 200 million years. With the limited edition Barossa Valley Explorer pack, we celebrate the best of this famed region with two different expressions. Bin 150 is a stylish and contemporary shiraz born from the ancient soils of Marananga, while Bin 138 is a plush and approachable blend of shiraz, grenache and mataro. Give no ordinary gift with this unique travel pack. The Wines: Bin 150 is born from the ancient soils of Marananga, which lies very close to the centre...
$13399 $14888
Wooing Tree Sandstrom Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Wooing Tree Sandstrom Pinot Noir 750ML
In stock
Wooing Tree Sandstrom Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2018 750ML -10%
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2018 750ML
In stock
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Pepperjack Malbec (6X750ML) -10%
In stock
Each Bottle: 750mL @ 14.5% ABV This Deep dense black colour Malbec with a red huec has Aromas of violets, spice, ripe blueberries and boysenberry, with hints of mocha oak. The palate shows fresh fruits of red cherry, fresh cranberries with savoury chalky tannins which give length and finesse. Winemaker, Richard Mattner, travelled to Mendoza, Argentina to source the grapes – ensuring the Pepperjack style and quality was not going to be compromised.
Pepperjack Barossa Red Blend (6X750ML) -10%
In stock
Each Bottle: 750mL @ 15% ABV Deep dark plum in colour and A medley aroma of dark red cherry, cranberry and ripe raspberries, warm spice and hints of mocha. The palate is rich and structured showing, bright fruits with silky and plush tannins which give length and finesse while finishing soft and full of flavour.
Pepperjack Malbec (6X750ML) -10%
In stock
Each Bottle: 750mL @ 14.5% ABV This Deep dense black colour Malbec with a red huec has Aromas of violets, spice, ripe blueberries and boysenberry, with hints of mocha oak. The palate shows fresh fruits of red cherry, fresh cranberries with savoury chalky tannins which give length and finesse. Winemaker, Richard Mattner, travelled to Mendoza, Argentina to source the grapes – ensuring the Pepperjack style and quality was not going to be compromised.
$13039 $14488
Pepperjack Barossa Red Blend (6X750ML) -10%
In stock
Each Bottle: 750mL @ 15% ABV Deep dark plum in colour and A medley aroma of dark red cherry, cranberry and ripe raspberries, warm spice and hints of mocha. The palate is rich and structured showing, bright fruits with silky and plush tannins which give length and finesse while finishing soft and full of flavour.
$13039 $14488
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
St Henri is a favourite among collectors with its proven style, elegant profile and aging potential. It is unusual amongst high quality Australian red wines as it does not rely on any new oak.  In the 2020 release, explore a sweet and savoury palate – fresh blueberry, exotic spice and olive brine. A classic St Henri. Tasting Notes: Colour:  Garnet red with a dark purple core. Nose:  The fruit profile is a delight, oak playing no role in the aromatics. Shiraz, unadulterated! The descriptors need to be coaxed from the glass with a gentle swirl. Fruits of the forest are first to emerge, berry conserve, strawberry flan...
Yering Station Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
In stock
Yering Station Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14.6% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA