Chillable reds are changing the game for summer sipping—but what makes a red wine “chillable”? We’re talking about lighter-bodied reds with bright, juicy fruit flavors, good acidity, and softer tannins. They show their very best when served cool, so pop one of these in the fridge for 15–30 minutes—you’ll have the perfect warm-weather wine, refreshing yet still full of character.
What to look for
High acidity is key. It’s what makes a wine feel fresh and lively, especially when it’s chilled.
Light- to medium-bodied wines won’t feel heavy or overwhelming when it’s 85+ degrees outside. They’re naturally food-friendly and easy to drink.
Low tannins are crucial. That’s because heavy tannins can turn harsh and bitter when chilled. Look for something smooth and approachable, like Pinot Noir or Gamay.
Bright fruit flavors like strawberries, cherries, cranberries, and pomegranate really come through.
The best grapes and regions for chillable reds
Beaujolais, the French wine made from Gamay, is the classic choice. Made to be served a bit cool, they’re light, fruity, and incredibly refreshing.
Sicilian reds like Frappato or Nero d’Avola often have this bright, fresh quality that works beautifully chilled.
Pinot Noir from cooler spots like Oregon or Burgundy can be fantastic chilled, especially the lighter styles.
Laura Koffer’s summer red selection
Our VP of Wine Laura Koffer is always on the hunt for wines that balance character with pure drinkability. Her go-to summer red recommendation is always the Vinos Finos de California “Sabroso.”
“It’s bright, like fresh strawberry in the summer that’s been chilled down,” she says. “So refreshing, so great with barbecued foods and alongside salads. It’s just the perfect red wine for summer.”
How to chill your red wines properly
Getting the temperature right is key to enjoying a chilled red wine. Too warm and you lose the refreshing quality, too cold and you shut down a lot of the aromas and flavors.
The easiest method? Just pop the bottle in your fridge for 15–30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, a bucket full of icewater works in less than 10 minutes. You’re aiming for around 60°F—cool enough to be refreshing, not so cold that you can’t taste anything. And here’s a pro tip: Chill your glasses too. There’s something about a cold glass that makes the whole experience even more refreshing.
Ready to explore? Check out our curated collection of chillable red wines here.
