Peter Morrell recommends a range of red wines to enjoy with comforting food now that the temperature is beginning to drop

From the heady days of summer when we were drinking bubbly, enjoying aromatic whites and rosés filled with summer fruits, our minds turn to stews, casseroles, and roast dinner matched with darker aromas of stone fruit, tobacco, leather, and spices.

Here are a range of red wines that will keep you warm

Errazuriz Max Carmenere 2020 – 13.5%

Aconcagua Valley, Chile

Good for International Carmenere Day on the 24th November!

The Mediterranean climate of the Aconcagua Valley suits Carmenere very well and creates this deep-colours and intensely flavoured delight. Pair with roasted red meats, pizza and pasta, and warming stews.

RRP: £13.00 |Stockist Tesco

Chapoutier Bila-Haut Rouge 2020 14% ABV

AOP Côtes-du-Roussillon Villages, France

Peter Morrell, Editor comments “This wine is from the well-respected house of Chapoutier. Founded in the Rhone Valley in 1808, it has now branched out with vineyards in Portugal, Australia, and the home of this wine, Languedoc.

“The wine is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignan grapes, it pours a dark ruby red colour. On the nose there are strong dark cherry aromas, with a background of blackberries and raisins. On the palate the fruit remains and flavours of liquorice, cedar, and herbs emerge. The weight of the wine leans towards the bold, and the tannins are well structured, making it very dry. The finish is long and fruity.

“This is an ideal wine to drink with a cassoulet, or roasted meats.”

RRP: £14.50 |Stockists: Noble Green Wines

Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages ‘Combe aux Jacques’ 2022, 13% ABV

Beaujolais-Villages A.O.C. France

The UK’s best-selling Beaujolais Villages. Brimming with juicy cherry and raspberry fruit notes, and light tannins. For something different try it lightly chilled – the ‘new pink’.

RRP: £15.55 | Stockists: Tesco, Asda, Nisa, Ocado, Booths, Wholefoods

Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2021, 14.50% ABV

Mendoza, Argentina

Peter Morrell, Editor says, “In the year that this wine was produced, the winemaker Zuccardi was awarded the accolade ‘Best vineyard in the world’. It is a single varietal made from the Malbec grape, which positively thrives in Argentina. It pours a very dark red colour, and the bouquet has a wealth of plum and blackcurrant aromas with hints of vanilla and pepper.

“In the mouth the body falls somewhere between medium and full. The flavours on the palate are complex showing leather, oak, tobacco, and aromatic spices. The tannins are well-rounded and soft, and there is a touch of acidity. The finish is fresh with a touch of tannins and good fruity tones that linger.

“This wine naturally pairs with slow roasted lamb, game pie, and strong cheeses.”

RRP: £15.60, available at Tesco

Robert Oatley Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, 14% ABV

Margaret River, Australia

A full flavoured yet finely structured Cabernet of great appeal: black berries, dried leaves and fine gravelly tannin. Enjoy with beef steak with black pepper sauce.

RRP: £16.80, available at Costco, Ocado, Majestic

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Pinot Noir 2021, 13% ABV

Marlborough, New Zealand

Less robust than the other reds on this list. With subtle aromatics of rosemary and thyme mingled with flavours of blackberries, black cherries and fruit fruits. It pairs well with roasted or grilled rabbit, veal and duck and soft, creamy cheeses.

RRP £18.80, available at Majestic, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose Cellar

Sauvage à Poil Vin Sans Soufre, Régnié 2020, 13.5% ABV

Beaujolais, France

A fruity, pure and mineral wine with violet floral notes, a hint of dark berry fruits and a black pepper finish. The tannins are well-integrated with a balance on the fresh finish. Perfect with paté and fresh baguette.

RRP: £24.35, available at Islington Wine, Bakers and Larners of Holt, Edencroft Fine Wines, Ellies Cellar, Penistone Court Wine Cellars, Vine of Life Ltd