10 Best Red Wines in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Sommelier
As one of the most popular drinks around the world, red wine never fails to impress. Apart from its health benefits, red wine can instantly elevate a simple dinner, make gatherings more festive, or even serve as a great gift when you’re in a pinch. And let’s admit it, drinking red wine makes you look just a little bit more sophisticated.
What are the types of red wine? What red wine should you pair with what type of food? And does the red wine’s alcohol content matter? In this article, we will share our picks for the 10 best red wines as well as our buying guide to help you choose one with ease. We also asked for some tips and insights from Raymund S. Manzanillo, a wine professional!
Quick List - Top Red Wines
Raymund is currently the chief sommelier who sources and evaluates wines for the portfolio of La Peregrina Filipina, a Philippine-based wine import company. He is a proponent of wine as culture, art, a lifestyle, and an all-important element in the world of gastronomy.
Justine joined mybest in 2020. She gravitates toward writing all things food-related and how they connect people. Aside from writing, she’s made it a point to hunt for the perfect croissant and chocolate chip cookie.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
How to Choose a Red Wine - Buying Guide
Discovering the world of red wines can be exciting and overwhelming. But worry not! Let us help you navigate red wines with ease with our buying guide.
Take a Closer Look at the Wine Label
It's easy to look at wine labels and be confused, especially if you don't know what you're looking for. But, wine labels provide insights into the wine's origin and characteristics. Here's how to read wine labels.
Country of Origin - indicates winemaking regulations and style. It's important to note that each wine-producing country has its own laws about what should and should not appear on their wine labels.
Producer - is the one who made the wine. Note that wine producers may be a business, an individual, or a family. In some instances, the label may even list the vineyard's name.
Grape Variety - gives you an idea of the red wine's flavor profile. Red grape varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, and Malbec, all of which have represented the winemaking traditions and identities of the many renowned wine regions around the world.
Vintage - refers to the year the grapes were harvested. The vintage is notable as it affects the wine's taste and quality due to varying weather conditions and grape maturity during a particular season.
Take Note of the Region to Have an Idea of Its Flavor
It’s crucial to understand the region where wines are produced as climate, soil, and winemaking traditions all contribute to the wine’s distinctive flavors. Additionally, each region will have its own expression of a type of grape, so even if two different regions use the same grape, its taste would still vary.
A Note on the Climate: The Cooler the Climate, the Lighter the Wine
Regions with cooler climates, such as New Zealand, Oregon, and Germany, create fruitier, lighter-bodied wines with vibrant fruit flavors and higher acidity.
Meanwhile, hotter climates like those in California, Southern France and Italy, and Australia yield bolder, fuller-bodied wines with ripe fruit flavors and elevated alcohol content.
Consider Notable Wine Regions for a Fool-Proof Choice
Certain wine-producing regions also have their own traditional ways of producing wine which can drastically affect the taste.
Here’s a quick guide on notable wine regions and their specialty below:
Burgundy, Oregon’s Willamette Valley - excels in producing exceptional Pinot Noir wines with delicate berry flavors.
Napa Valley, Barossa Valley - these warmer regions make rich Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz wines, respectively.
Tuscany, Rioja - these regions are celebrated for Sangiovese and Tempranillo-based red wines, each reflecting their unique terroir and winemaking practices.
Bordeaux in France is known worldwide for their red blends made primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot varieties and are characterized by flavors and aromas of plum, black currant, and earthy notes of wet gravel and pencil lead.
There are also some differences in prices based on the region because some regions, like Burgundy, for example, are known to be the best for growing grapes that produce a particular wine style that is expressive of the plots and location of the vineyards and has become the benchmark for producers around the world when it comes to making wine from the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties.
Therefore, the real estate value in regions such as Burgundy is significantly higher, given the long-standing traditions and prestige of the region, adding more of a premium and luxury to the wines from these vineyards.
Choose a Red Wine Style Based on Your Preferences
There are a lot of red wine styles you could choose from. It’s important to take note of your preference as it will give you an idea of what type of red wine to pick.
You Can’t Go Wrong With Classic Red Wine Styles Like Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon
Those who prefer delicate flavors may favor light-bodied Pinot Noir, while medium-bodied Merlot suits a wide range of palates with its pleasant fruitiness. For a richer experience, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents intense dark fruit flavors and robust tannins. Tempranillo variety from Spain is a versatile grape that can appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Look for a Rioja, particularly from the Rioja Alta or Rioja Alavesa Subregion, with Crianza or Reserva on the label, which are wines made mostly from the Tempranillo variety and have been aged in both barrel and bottle to soften the tannins and add complexity. These wines are characterized by their ripe cherry, fig, sweet tobacco, and baking spice profile, medium body, and moderate acidity. These are wines that can also age very well.
Consider Lesser Known Grape Varieties Like Gamay and Carmenere if You Want to Try Something New
Lesser-known grape varieties like Gamay in Beaujolais or Carmenère from Chile can be intriguing for adventurous wine enthusiasts. For sweetness, well-balanced late harvest Zinfandel or ripe, fruit-forward Malbec from Argentina are excellent choices.
Additionally, the Monastrell variety makes great-value, full-bodied reds that are powerful and tastes of concentrated blackberries, sometimes with violet or licorice notes.
Try wines that are organically grown or produced biodynamically from lesser-known producers. Los Cantos and Cyclo from Bodegas Torremillanos in the Ribera Del Duero region of Spain are available from La Peregrina FIlipina in the Philippines.
For Red Wine Beginners, Try to Opt for Sweet Red Wines Like Lambrusco
It’s easy to be intimidated by red wine, particularly if you’re new to them. If you aren’t sure of what to try, then a good starting point would be sweet red wine, given its approachable taste.
The Lambrusco from northern Italy, Dornfelder from Germany, Amarone from Italy, Port from the Duoro Valley in Portugal are known for having quality sweet style wines.
Here are other newbie-friendly, ripe fruit-forward red wines that wine professional, Raymund Manzanillo recommends:
Light-bodied wine: Gamay from the Beaujolais region in France
Medium-bodied wines: Garnacha from Aragon in Spain
Full-bodied wines: Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley
Consider the Wine’s ABV and Body: The Higher the ABV the Richer the Wine
The alcohol by volume (ABV) indicates the percentage of alcohol in the wine and plays a significant role in the wine's taste and overall experience. Higher ABV wines offer bolder flavors and warming sensations, while lower ABV wines provide a lighter and delicate palate feel.
ABV also influences the wine's body, with higher ABV wines having a fuller, richer texture and lower ABV wines offering a lighter, crisp mouthfeel. Beginners can start with red wines in the moderate range of 12% to 13.5%, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, which strikes a balance between flavor intensity and alcohol content. You can explore different ABV levels and body types as your palate develops!
10 Best Red Wines to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Region | Grape Variety | Body | Vintage | ABV | |||||
1 | Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon | | Bold and Smooth Australian Cabernet with Rich Berry Flavors | Australia | Southeastern Australia | Cabernet Sauvignon | Full-bodied and smooth | 2018 | 13.5% | |
2 | Yellow Tail Merlot | | Soft and Velvety Australian Merlot with Rich Fruit Notes | Australia | Southeastern Australia | Merlot | Medium | 2023 | 13.50% | |
3 | Santa Carolina Premio Red | | Light and Smooth Chilean Red Wine with Fruity Sweetness | Chile | Central Valley | Cabernet Sauvignon Blend | Light-bodied | 2018 | 12.50% | |
4 | Carlo Rossi Sweet Red｜750 mL | | Smooth and Fruity Californian Sweet Red Wine for Casual Enjoyment | United States | California | Red Blend | Medium-bodied and sweet | Non-vintage | 10.50% | |
5 | Barefoot Merlot | | Smooth and Fruity Californian Merlot with Chocolate Notes | United States | California | Merlot | Medium-bodied | Non-vintage | 13.50% | |
6 | Novellino Rosso Classico Red Wine | | Light and Sweet Filipino Red Wine with a Smooth Finish | Philippines | unknown | Vitis Vinifera blend | Light-bodied | Non-vintage | 4.50% | |
7 | Frontera Merlot | | Smooth and Fruity Chilean Merlot with Rich Berry Notes | Chile | Central Valley | Merlot | Medium-bodied | Non-vintage | 12.50% | |
8 | Vino Fontana Red Wine Blend | | Classic Spanish Red Wine Blend with Rich Berry and Vanilla Notes | Spain | La Mancha | Tempranillo blend | Light-bodied | Non-vintage | 12% | |
9 | Riunite Lambrusco | | Light and Fruity Italian Sparkling Red Wine with a Refreshing Sweetness | Italy | Emilia-Romagna | Lambrusco | Light-bodied | Non-vintage | 8% | |
10 | Apothic Red Wine | | Bold and Smooth Californian Red Blend with Rich Dark Fruit | United States | California | Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel | Medium-bodied | Non-vintage | 13.50% | |
Bold and Smooth Australian Cabernet with Rich Berry Flavors
Features and benefits:
- Made from premium Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in South Eastern Australia, ensuring quality and flavor
- Rich aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and plum with hints of vanilla and mocha from oak aging
- Full-bodied with smooth tannins for a velvety texture and well-rounded structure
- Versatile pairing with red meats and hearty dishes, enhancing dining experiences
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate its approachable taste and consistent quality, noting the wine’s smooth finish and rich fruit flavors. Some mention it as a great value for everyday drinking, while a few suggest chilling it slightly for best enjoyment.
| Country of Origin | Australia |
|---|---|
| Region | Southeastern Australia |
| Grape Variety | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Body | Full-bodied and smooth |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| ABV | 13.5% |
Soft and Velvety Australian Merlot with Rich Fruit Notes
Features and benefits:
- Made from 100% Merlot grapes sourced from South Eastern Australia, ensuring consistent quality
- Smooth texture with flavors of ripe plum, mulberries, and subtle spice for an easy-drinking experience
- Medium-bodied wine that pairs well with beef, lamb, and veal dishes, enhancing mealtime enjoyment
- Balanced acidity and soft tannins provide a velvety finish that appeals to both casual and seasoned wine drinkers
Reviews mention:
Customers praise its approachable and smooth taste, highlighting the rich fruit flavors and pleasant finish. Many find it a reliable choice for everyday drinking and casual occasions. A few users suggest serving slightly chilled for optimal flavor.
| Country of Origin | Australia |
|---|---|
| Region | Southeastern Australia |
| Grape Variety | Merlot |
| Body | Medium |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| ABV | 13.50% |
Light and Smooth Chilean Red Wine with Fruity Sweetness
Features and benefits:
- Made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in Chile’s central valley, offering authentic regional flavor
- Light-bodied with smooth texture and sweet notes of ripe red fruits, caramel, and jam for easy drinking
- Versatile pairing with red meats, pasta, and cheese to complement various meals
- Affordable and approachable wine ideal for casual occasions and everyday enjoyment
Reviews mention:
Drinkers enjoy its fresh, delicate flavors and smooth finish, praising it as a good value wine. Some note it is pleasant served slightly chilled and suitable for those who prefer lighter reds. A few mention the wine’s sweetness may not suit those seeking a dry profile.
| Country of Origin | Chile |
|---|---|
| Region | Central Valley |
| Grape Variety | Cabernet Sauvignon Blend |
| Body | Light-bodied |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| ABV | 12.50% |
Smooth and Fruity Californian Sweet Red Wine for Casual Enjoyment
Features and benefits:
- Light to medium-bodied with bright red fruit flavors and fresh floral notes for a balanced taste
- Sweet profile with a smooth, velvety finish, making it easy to drink and pair with desserts or soft cheeses
- Produced in California using a blend of red grape varieties to ensure consistent quality
- Lower alcohol content for a lighter, refreshing experience
Reviews mention:
Many users enjoy its approachable sweetness and smooth texture, praising it as a great choice for casual sipping or pairing with light meals. Some note it is ideal served slightly chilled, while a few mention it may be too sweet for those preferring dry wines."
| Country of Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Grape Variety | Red Blend |
| Body | Medium-bodied and sweet |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 10.50% |
Smooth and Fruity Californian Merlot with Chocolate Notes
Features and benefits:
- Made from 100% Merlot grapes grown in California, delivering consistent quality and flavor
- Medium-bodied with rich flavors of cherry, plum, and chocolate complemented by a mocha finish
- Soft tannins and smooth texture make it easy to drink and pair well with pasta, red meats, and poultry
- Award-winning wine that offers a balanced taste ideal for casual sipping or special occasions
Reviews mention:
Users praise its luscious fruit flavors and smooth finish, appreciating its versatility with food. Many find it approachable and enjoyable both neat or slightly chilled. Some note it as a great value for its quality, while a few mention it can be sweeter than expected for a Merlot."
| Country of Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Grape Variety | Merlot |
| Body | Medium-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 13.50% |
Light and Sweet Filipino Red Wine with a Smooth Finish
Features and benefits:
- Locally produced in the Philippines using a blend of Vitis Vinifera grapes, offering a fresh and fruity profile
- Lightly fermented with a delightfully sweet character and elegant finish, making it easy to enjoy anytime
- Low alcohol content for a refreshing and approachable drinking experience
- Ideal for casual occasions and pairs well with light meals or desserts
Reviews mention:
Customers appreciate its smooth, sweet taste and find it perfect for casual sipping and celebrations. Some note its light body and lower alcohol make it a good choice for those new to red wine or preferring less intense options. A few mention it may be too sweet for those who prefer drier wines."
| Country of Origin | Philippines |
|---|---|
| Region | unknown |
| Grape Variety | Vitis Vinifera blend |
| Body | Light-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 4.50% |
Smooth and Fruity Chilean Merlot with Rich Berry Notes
Features and benefits:
- Produced from 100% Merlot grapes grown in Chile’s Central Valley, ensuring authentic regional character
- Medium-bodied with flavors of black cherry, plum, chocolate, and subtle hints of vanilla and spice
- Soft tannins and smooth texture provide an easy-drinking, well-balanced wine suitable for various occasions
- Pairs well with grilled meats, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and creamy cheeses for versatile dining
Reviews mention:
Customers highlight its approachable taste and pleasant finish, appreciating the rich fruit flavors and smooth mouthfeel. Many find it a reliable, good-value wine for everyday enjoyment. Some note it has a slightly sweet edge that appeals to casual wine drinkers.
| Country of Origin | Chile |
|---|---|
| Region | Central Valley |
| Grape Variety | Merlot |
| Body | Medium-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 12.50% |
Classic Spanish Red Wine Blend with Rich Berry and Vanilla Notes
Features and benefits:
- Crafted from a blend of Tempranillo grapes grown in Spain’s La Mancha region, showcasing authentic Spanish terroir
- Light-bodied with vibrant aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, and subtle hints of vanilla and spice
- Medium sweetness balanced by refreshing acidity, delivering a smooth, velvety finish that is easy to enjoy
- Pairs well with red meats, roasted dishes, and Spanish tapas, enhancing the flavors of hearty meals
Reviews mention:
Drinkers appreciate its juicy fruit flavors and pleasant aroma, noting it as a great value for a flavorful red wine. Many find it smooth and approachable, suitable for casual drinking and food pairing. Some mention its medium sweetness may be ideal for those who prefer less dry reds."
| Country of Origin | Spain |
|---|---|
| Region | La Mancha |
| Grape Variety | Tempranillo blend |
| Body | Light-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 12% |
Light and Fruity Italian Sparkling Red Wine with a Refreshing Sweetness
- Made from Lambrusco grape varieties grown in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, showcasing authentic regional character
- Light-bodied with a semi-sweet profile and gentle sparkling (frizzante) texture for a lively drinking experience
- Low alcohol content makes it an easy-to-drink wine suitable for casual occasions and food pairing
- Pairs well with spicy dishes, pizza, burgers, and a variety of ethnic cuisines, enhancing meal enjoyment
Reviews mention:
Many users enjoy its sweet, fruity flavor and refreshing bubbles, often recommending it served chilled or over ice. It is praised for its versatility with food and approachable taste, though some find the aroma less appealing. Overall, it’s considered a reliable, crowd-pleasing wine for casual sipping.
| Country of Origin | Italy |
|---|---|
| Region | Emilia-Romagna |
| Grape Variety | Lambrusco |
| Body | Light-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 8% |
Bold and Smooth Californian Red Blend with Rich Dark Fruit
Features and benefits:
- Crafted from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel grapes grown in California, offering complex and balanced flavors
- Rich aromas of black cherry, blackberry, vanilla, and mocha enhanced by oak aging for a smooth, velvety texture
- Medium-bodied with a slightly sweet profile balanced by bright acidity, making it approachable for a wide range of palates
- Pairs well with hearty dishes like tomato-based pasta, grilled meats, and aged cheeses, enhancing meal enjoyment
Reviews mention:
Users praise its rich fruit flavors and smooth finish, highlighting the wine’s balance of sweetness and acidity. Many appreciate its versatility with food and find it ideal for both casual sipping and special occasions. Some note it has a slightly sweeter taste compared to traditional dry reds."
| Country of Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Grape Variety | Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel |
| Body | Medium-bodied |
| Vintage | Non-vintage |
| ABV | 13.50% |
Tips on How You Can Enjoy Your Red Wine More
Curious about what kind of food to pair with red wine? What about storing and serving them? We provide some helpful tips on how you can enjoy drinking red wine.
What Food Should Your Pair With Red Wines?
Pairing food with red wine involves considering both the wine's body and intensity. For instance, pair light-bodied wines with roasted vegetables or pasta, medium-bodied wines with grilled chicken or mushroom risotto, and full-bodied wines with steak or aged cheeses.
Additionally, matching the wine's flavor profile is crucial, like fruity wines with rich or spicy dishes, earthy wines with mushroom-based or game dishes, and acidic wines with tomato-based or vinegar-infused foods. The flavor combination helps enhance your dining experience.
Match the palate weight of the wine to the weight of the food. Light-bodied wines should be paired with lighter food with delicate textures, whereas fuller-bodied wines pair best with richer foods that have chewier textures and/or higher fat or oil content. Rich foods include beef, lamb, duck, cheeses, and foods prepared with butter and creams. The logic of selecting wine of light to medium body reflects the fact that such wines will be more versatile and combine best with most foods.
How to Serve Red Wines?
The ideal serving temperatures vary depending on the red wine type:
Light-bodied wines like Pinot Noir - best served slightly chilled at 12-13°C
Medium/Full-bodied wines like Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon - best enjoyed at room temperature of 15-18°C
You can briefly refrigerate the wine or place it in a wine cooler or bucket with ice water for controlled cooling. However, avoid refrigerating for extended periods, and they should be stored in a cool, dark place between 10-18°C to prevent premature deterioration or loss of flavor caused by temperature fluctuations.
How to Store Red Wine
Here are a few ways to store wine:
Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent air from entering and spoiling the wine
Reseal an opened wine with its original cork or a wine stopper to slow down oxidation
Vacuum pumps can remove excess air
Transferring to a smaller bottle can minimize air contact
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Raymund S. Manzanillo
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by wine professional Raymund S. Manzanillo.
Does Red Wine Have Health Benefits?
Red wine, when consumed in moderation, has been associated with potential health benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease, improving cholesterol levels, and regulating blood pressure. It also contains antioxidants called polyphenols, in particular resveratrol, which has gained attention for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects.
Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress and contribute to good heart health. Additionally, moderate red wine intake has been associated with increased levels of "good" HDL cholesterol and improved insulin sensitivity.
What Kind of Red Wine is Good for Sangria?
The best wine for sangria is the wine you don't consume completely. In other words, leftover wine.
Are the Taste and Quality Affected by the Capping Method?
The type of cap you seal the wine bottle can affect wine taste and quality. Natural corks, for example, are compressed into the wine bottle to form a tight seal but it allows some air to come in contact with the wine during the aging process allowing for some micro-oxygenation which improves wine quality. Natural corks are associated with tradition.
The downside to natural corks is that some bad batches can cause cork taint, imparting a moldy aroma to your wine. With most types of screw caps, oxygen is completely restricted, which can result in reductive aromas like a burnt match stick, rubber, and cabbage. These are wines that are generally meant to be drunk young.
Expand Your Wine Collection With These Picks
No matter how delicious they are, not everyone will like red wine. Here are other wine options if you want to expand your wine collection. We made sure to include a variety from white wine to the ever-popular rosé wine!
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Red Wines
No. 1: Yellow Tail｜Cabernet Sauvignon
No. 2: Yellow Tail ｜Merlot
No. 3: Santa Carolina｜Premio Red
No. 4: Carlo Rossi｜Sweet Red｜750 mL
No. 5: Barefoot｜Merlot
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.