9 Best Red Wines in the Philippines 2024 | 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 9 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.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose a Red Wine - Buying Guide
- Take a Closer Look at the Wine Label1
- Take Note of the Region to Have an Idea of Its Flavor2
- Choose a Red Wine Style Based on Your Preferences3
- For Red Wine Beginners, Try to Opt for Sweet Red Wines Like Lambrusco4
- Consider the Wine’s ABV and Body: The Higher the ABV the Richer the Wine5
- Tips on How You Can Enjoy Your Red Wine More
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Raymund S. Manzanillo
- Does Red Wine Have Health Benefits?
- What Kind of Red Wine is Good for Sangria?
- Are the Taste and Quality Affected by the Capping Method?
- Expand Your Wine Collection With These Picks
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
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 | Jean Guillot Château Cap de Fer | | A Vibrant Bordeaux With Expressive Flavors | France | Bordeaux | 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc | Medium | 2019 | 13.5% | |
2 | Tavernello Organico Sangiovese | | A Deep Ruby Red for All Wine Lovers | Italy | Rubicone | Sangiovese | Not Indicated | Not Indicated | 12.5% | |
3 | Beringer Founder’s Estate Merlot | | A Fruit-Forward Wine With Hints of Plum and Berries | USA | California | Merlot | Medium | 2019 | 13.5% | |
4 | Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon | | A Go-To Red Wine With Velvety and Chocolatey Flavors | Australia | Southeastern Australia | Cabernet Sauvignon | Medium to Full | 2021 | 14% | |
5 | Casillero del Diablo Pinot Noir Reserva | | An Aromatic Red Wine for Your Culinary Adventures | Chile | Santiago | Pinot Noir | Light to Medium | 2021 | 13.5% | |
6 | Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec | | A Harmonious Fusion of Terroirs and Complex Flavors | Argentina | Las Compuertas and Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley | Malbec | Full | 2021 | 14% | |
7 | Taylor's Fine Tawny Port NV | | A Smooth and Mellow Wine Perfect for Desserts | Portugal | Duoro Valley | Touriga Nacional | Medium to Full | N.V. | 20% | |
8 | Riunite Lambrusco | | A Light and Refreshing Choice for Occasional Drinkers | Italy | Emilia | Lambrusco | Light | N.V. | 8% | |
9 | Carlo Rossi Red Moscato | | A Rich Yet Approachable Wine for Most Occasions | USA | California | Muscat Noir | Light | N.V. | 8.5% | |
A Vibrant Bordeaux With Expressive Flavors
Ideal for special occasions or elegant gatherings, this Château Cap de Fer from the acclaimed Bordeaux region is a true gem. The extended maceration and at least 12 months of aging result in a well-balanced and flavorful wine that pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like prime rib, lamb, or rich stews.
| Country of Origin | France |
|---|---|
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Grape Variety | 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc |
| Body | Medium |
| Vintage | 2019 |
| ABV | 13.5% |
A Deep Ruby Red for All Wine Lovers
It pairs wonderfully with tomato-based pasta, filled ravioli, hard cheeses, and red meats, making it the perfect companion for hearty Italian meals and savory dishes. Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner at home or celebrating with friends and family, this wine is something you can truly enjoy.
| Country of Origin | Italy |
|---|---|
| Region | Rubicone |
| Grape Variety | Sangiovese |
| Body | Not Indicated |
| Vintage | Not Indicated |
| ABV | 12.5% |
A Fruit-Forward Wine With Hints of Plum and Berries
It has a medium body, and it is versatile enough to be paired with barbecues or a cheese plate to effortlessly elevate your dining experience. Note that to fully enjoy its taste, this wine is meant to be savored immediately. Additionally, it is an excellent option for those last-minute presents or purchases for various occasions.
| Country of Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Grape Variety | Merlot |
| Body | Medium |
| Vintage | 2019 |
| ABV | 13.5% |
A Go-To Red Wine With Velvety and Chocolatey Flavors
Serve up some red wine at your next gathering with Yellow Tail's Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic, full-bodied red wine known for being rich and velvety. This particular wine boasts black cherry and chocolate notes with hints of blackcurrant, sweet mocha, and spice.
It is a good choice for those intimate dinners or gatherings, and it is great to pair with meaty dishes such as spaghetti, lasagna, or even some steak. What's good about this red wine is that it's widely available, as you can find it in most supermarkets. It's affordable, too, making it an easy choice for most people.
| Country of Origin | Australia |
|---|---|
| Region | Southeastern Australia |
| Grape Variety | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Body | Medium to Full |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| ABV | 14% |
An Aromatic Red Wine for Your Culinary Adventures
This Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It is the perfect accompaniment to fatty fish, such as grilled tuna, as well as Italian food, like pasta dishes or pizzas. Additionally, it also pairs deliciously well with white meats, opening up a world of culinary possibilities.
| Country of Origin | Chile |
|---|---|
| Region | Santiago |
| Grape Variety | Pinot Noir |
| Body | Light to Medium |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| ABV | 13.5% |
A Harmonious Fusion of Terroirs and Complex Flavors
This Malbec offers a balanced and fluid palate with ripe blackberry, blackcurrant, and delicate flower notes, complemented by hints of clove and plum, resulting in a deliciously satisfying taste. Its fresh acidity enhances the silky and ripe tannins, leading to a long and lingering finish. Pair this deep, dark red wine with grilled steaks for a delightful culinary experience, and savor its complex layers and flavors.
| Country of Origin | Argentina |
|---|---|
| Region | Las Compuertas and Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley |
| Grape Variety | Malbec |
| Body | Full |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| ABV | 14% |
A Smooth and Mellow Wine Perfect for Desserts
It offers a harmonious blend of flavors that pairs perfectly with almonds, berry fruit, dark chocolate, and rich, blue-veined cheeses. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply winding down after a satisfying dinner, treat yourself to this port wine.
| Country of Origin | Portugal |
|---|---|
| Region | Duoro Valley |
| Grape Variety | Touriga Nacional |
| Body | Medium to Full |
| Vintage | N.V. |
| ABV | 20% |
A Light and Refreshing Choice for Occasional Drinkers
If you're looking for a light-bodied wine, you're in for a treat sipping Lambrusco. This particular wine is very light that some have even described it as akin to a bubbly drink or sparkling wine. Overall, it has a very fruity taste with strong notes of blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry with just a hint of bitterness. This makes for a refreshing drink!
This is a safe choice if you aren't too keen on bitterness or full-bodied red wines but want something more sophisticated. It also has an approachable taste, but you can pair it with practically anything, from pizza to prosciutto. If you're an occasional drinker, you should definitely give this one a go!
| Country of Origin | Italy |
|---|---|
| Region | Emilia |
| Grape Variety | Lambrusco |
| Body | Light |
| Vintage | N.V. |
| ABV | 8% |
A Rich Yet Approachable Wine for Most Occasions
Reviewers also liked its sweet flavor, injected with just the right hint of alcohol. Whether you're enjoying a casual evening with friends, celebrating special moments, or simply unwinding after a long day, this is the perfect companion to savor and enjoy
| Country of Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Grape Variety | Muscat Noir |
| Body | Light |
| Vintage | N.V. |
| ABV | 8.5% |
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: Jean Guillot｜Château Cap de Fer
No. 2: Tavernello｜Organico Sangiovese
No. 3: Beringer Founder’s Estate｜Merlot
No. 4: Yellow Tail｜Cabernet Sauvignon
No. 5: Casillero del Diablo｜Pinot Noir Reserva
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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