Why Drink Chilled Reds and Rosés This Summer
What do garden parties, spending time at the pool, and spending more time outdoors have in common? The summer season is just around the corner in Asheville, NC, and due to the incredible climate that we are lucky to have, that means that it is time to spend more time relaxing outside.
What better way to spend your summer relaxing than cozied up to a nice bottle of wine. While you may think lighter-bodied white wines or chilled sparkling wines are the way to go in the warm weather, chilled red wines and rosés are nothing to miss.
Which Reds Can Be Chilled?
More often than not, red wines are held at room temperature; however, serving some red wines at cooler temperatures is a common practice. There are a few red wines that take to chilling better than others with characteristics such as:
- Lighter to medium in body
- Lower alcohol content
- Fewer tannins
- Minimal oak influence
It is best to avoid reds with big flavors such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Barolo, as they deserve to be ‘opened’ and decanted. A few reds that benefit from chilling are Beaujolais, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. Rosés are also great chilled.
What Is the Deal With Chilling Reds and Rose’s Anyway? (And How to Do It)
With the appropriate wines, chilling can elevate the brighter, fruitier flavors and bring out the acidity. This gives a fresh complexity that you may not experience when at room temperature. Also, there is something absolutely refreshing about chilled Beaujolais that should not be missed out on. The goal is to lower the wine’s temperature five to ten degrees (ranging from 65 to 55 degrees) which can be done in about three minutes in an ice bucket or a half hour to 45 minutes in the refrigerator.
To chill your reds and rosés, start with an ice bucket. You can quickly crash your temperature with a light ice bath. To find the right temperature, simply sample the wine and adjust the chill to taste. At the end of the day, you don't have to be a professional to know what YOU enjoy.
Personal preference is what it is all about. There is no right or wrong, so don't feel intimidated.
Hopefully, this quick guide cleared up a few of the misunderstandings about whether or not chilling red wines and rose’s is acceptable. When done correctly, it can improve the flavor and the experience!
Want to learn more about red wines and roses? We've got you taken care of. Metro Wines features a large wine range with a focus on matching the right wine to the right food or occasion. Our wine experts are available to answer your questions, give pairing ideas, and work with your caterer or event planner at any time.
We also provide Wine Classes, weekly tastings, and social gatherings throughout the month. Our website contains information about our upcoming events, weekly tastings, and special events.