Raise a Glass to These 11 Best Red Wines: A Catering Guide for Casual Drinking
Red Wines for Casual Drinking: Catering Guide
The Popularity of Red Wine for Casual Drinking
When it comes to casual drinking, red wine has become a popular choice for many people. Not only is it easy to drink and pair with a variety of foods, but it also offers numerous health benefits.
Studies have shown that moderate red wine consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers. But what sets red wine apart from other alcoholic beverages is its complexity in taste and aroma.
From bold and full-bodied to soft and fruity, there’s a red wine out there for every palate. And as a result, it has become a favorite drink among those who enjoy sipping on something special after work or relaxing with friends on weekends.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Brand for Catering Events
If you’re planning a catering event that includes red wine, choosing the right brand is crucial. The last thing you want is to serve your guests an inferior bottle that leaves a bad taste in their mouth – literally.
The quality of the red wine you serve at your event can make or break your reputation as an event planner or host. By selecting high-quality brands, you’ll not only impress your guests but also ensure they have an enjoyable experience.
It’s also essential to consider the type of food being served at your event when selecting your wines; some wines pair better with certain dishes than others. Choosing the right brand when serving red wine at catering events is essential if you want to provide guests with an unforgettable experience.
With so many options available on the market today, it can be challenging to narrow down which ones are worth investing in. But fear not – we’ve put together a list of 11 best red wines and brands for casual drinking that will make selecting your next bottle much more manageable!
Top 11 Best Red Wines for Casual Drinking
1. Apothic Red Blend – A smooth and easy-to-drink blend with notes of dark fruit and vanilla.
The Apothic Red blend is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a smooth and easy-to-drink wine. This blend consists of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
It has a full-bodied flavor with hints of vanilla, mocha, and black cherry. The Apothic Red is great for casual drinking occasions due to its affordable price point.
2. 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon – A bold and full-bodied wine with hints of blackberry and spice.
If you’re looking for a bold and full-bodied red wine that can be enjoyed casually or at events, the 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice. This wine has flavors of blackberry, vanilla, cinnamon spice, and oak. It’s well balanced with medium tannins that will leave you wanting more.
3. Bogle Phantom Red Blend – A complex blend with flavors of black cherry, mocha, and vanilla.
The Bogle Phantom Red Blend is a complex yet easy-to-drink option that includes Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Mourvedre & Syrah grapes. This rich red wine has flavors of black cherry fruitiness combined with notes of mocha & vanilla. This combination makes it one of the most preferred options on this list.
4. Meiomi Pinot Noir – A light-bodied red with notes of strawberry, raspberry, and vanilla.
For those who prefer lighter options but still desire the taste profile typical in red wines then Meiomi Pinot Noir is the best pick on this list. With its bright ruby color & aromas like strawberries & cherries, it is a perfect light-bodied red wine option with hints of raspberry and vanilla.
5. Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – A rich and velvety wine with flavors of black currant, chocolate, and oak.
If you’re a fan of velvety wines that feel like heaven on your taste buds, Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon might just be the choice for you. It boasts flavors of black currants, dark chocolate & toasted oak. This rich option is great to serve at catering events or even enjoyed casually.
6. The Prisoner Red Blend – A bold blend with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and espresso.
The Prisoner Red Blend is a unique combination that brings together Zinfandel along with Cabernet Franc and Syrah grapes. This bold blend has notes of dark fruits like blackberry & plum coupled with interesting flavors like espresso and chocolate. The unique flavor profile can make it a memorable option for casual drinking events.
7. Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Pinot Noir – A smooth and fruity wine with notes of cherry, raspberry, and vanilla.
The Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Pinot Noir has been an all-time favorite for many casual drinkers due to its smooth texture & fruity flavor profile. The grapes used in this wine come from California’s cool coastal regions where Pinot Noir thrives best which translates into the quality taste experience. With subtle notes of cherry & raspberry along with an oaky finish this bottle can effortlessly pair well with different cuisine options.
8. Robert Mondavi Private Selection Merlot – A medium-bodied wine with flavors of black cherry, plum, and oak.
Robert Mondavi Private Selection Merlot is known for its easy-to-drink characteristics combined with the quality factor that makes it one of the most popular choices out there. This Merlot has a medium-bodied taste that is pleasantly balanced with flavors of black cherry and plum. The final addition of oak gives it the necessary finishing touches.
9. Mark West Pinot Noir
The Mark West Pinot Noir made from grapes harvested in California is an affordable option within the pinot noir category. It has a smooth, light texture with notes of cherry, strawberry, and vanilla. The easy drinkability factor makes it a preferred choice for casual drinking occasions.
Pairing Red Wine with Food at Catering Events
Red wines pair best with rich and hearty meat-based dishes like steak, lamb chops or beef roast. Lighter-bodied wines like Pinot Noir are great for pairing with poultry dishes such as chicken or turkey. You can pair Shiraz wines seamlessly with barbeque-style meals, while Zinfandel pairs best when served alongside pizza.
Serving Temperature & Storage Recommendations
It’s ideal to serve most red wines between 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit; however, temperature preferences vary based on the type of wine being served. Storing red wine in cool, dark places horizontally prevents oxidation that can compromise the flavor profile over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wine for your catering event or casual drinking night can make all the difference in setting the mood and leaving your guests satisfied. This list offers some of the best red wine options that cater to different preferences & taste profiles.
Whether you’re looking for rich flavor options like Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon or lighter choices like Meiomi Pinot Noir, these wines are sure to elevate any gathering or occasion they are served at. So go ahead, try out these 11 best red wines mentioned above and add sophistication to your celebrations without breaking the bank!
