The 20 Best Red Wines to Drink Right Now (2025)
Published: January 25, 2025
Let’s be real for a second: choosing the perfect bottle of red wine can feel like navigating a sea of options, especially when there are so many fantastic reds on the market. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or someone who enjoys a glass after a long day, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. But don’t worry; we’re here to simplify the process. From bold Cabernet Sauvignons to silky Pinot Noirs, we’ve put together a curated list of the 20 best red wines that deserve a spot in your glass this year. Even better? All of these are available on YourWineStore and ready to elevate your next meal, celebration, or quiet evening at home.
This guide is divided into categories to suit every palate and price point, ensuring you’ll find the perfect bottle whether you’re craving a luxurious French blend or a budget-friendly Merlot. Wherever you fall on the wine-loving spectrum, you’re in good hands.
What Makes a Red Wine "The Best"?
Red wine preferences are as personal as they are specific, but a few universal factors separate an exceptional wine from the rest. And we’re not just talking about the price tag. A great wine can be affordable and still impress. Understanding various elements about where a wine comes from can help you pick a bottle that suits your tastes perfectly.
- Taste Profile: This is where balance comes into play. A well-rounded red wine has just the right mix of tannins, acidity, and flavor—whether it's a fruit-forward experience with notes of blackberry and cherry or a more earthy vibe with hints of tobacco and leather. The best red wines have a complexity that makes each sip interesting.
- Wine Aging Potential: Red wines vary greatly in how they develop over time. Some, like Beaujolais, are meant to be enjoyed while young and fresh. Others, like Bordeaux, benefit from aging, which allows their flavors to mature and deepen. Understanding a wine’s aging potential can help you plan whether to uncork or cellar your purchase.
- Value for Money: Let’s face it—there are some high-end bottles that are well worth the splurge, but a great red wine doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Some of the best-rated reds are surprisingly affordable, offering incredible quality without breaking the bank. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between taste and price.
- Wine Pairing: The perfect wine-and-food pairing can transform a meal. Red wines shine with hearty dishes—think aged cheeses, tender meats, and robust pasta sauces. For example, a Zinfandel loves barbecue flavors, while Pinot Noir dances beautifully with roasted veggies or grilled salmon.
Our List of the 20 Best Red Wines
We’ve sifted through endless bottles to bring you this definitive list of the top-rated red wines to drink this year. Each selection includes tasting notes and highlights its unique appeal. No matter your preferences, you’ll find at least one new favorite here.
1. Best Overall Red Wine
Brewer-Clifton Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Region: Sta. Rita Hills, California, USA
Tasting Notes: This Pinot Noir is light-bodied and delicate, with vibrant red cherry and cranberry flavors that leap from the glass. Accents of earthy herbs and a touch of spice add layers of complexity, making this wine feel both fresh and refined. The balanced acidity gives it a mouthwatering quality, while subtle earthy undertones bring depth and sophistication to the finish.
Why We Love It: Brewer-Clifton has crafted a stunning Pinot Noir that’s a perfect example of why this varietal can be so special. The balance between juicy, fruit-forward notes and the savory earthiness is what makes this wine truly shine. It offers an elegant introduction to Pinot Noir, showcasing the best of California’s Sta. Rita Hills region. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with roasted chicken or a charcuterie board, this wine is all about finesse and complexity, making it a true standout.
Acclaim: 94 Points Wine Enthusiast
2. Best Northern California Red Wine
Anakota Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Knights Valley, California, USA
Tasting Notes: This Cabernet Sauvignon is bold yet remarkably smooth. The blackberry and cassis flavors are rich and concentrated, complemented by subtle oak nuances that add an elegant touch of vanilla and spice. There’s a fine tannin structure that provides a firm backbone, but the overall feel is rounded and approachable. The finish is long, with lingering notes of dark fruit and a touch of spice.
Why We Love It: This Cabernet is the epitome of Northern California’s ability to produce big, bold wines without sacrificing approachability. Anakota’s Knights Valley Cabernet is rich, powerful, and full of character, yet smooth enough to make it enjoyable right out of the bottle. It’s an easy choice for a special dinner—perfectly paired with a grilled ribeye or a rich lamb dish. It’s a wine that combines power with polish, making it a true gem from one of California’s best wine-growing regions.
Acclaim: 96 Points Jeb Dunnuck
3. Best Sonoma County Red Wine
Matanzas Creek Alexander Valley Merlot 2021
Varietal: Merlot
Region: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA
Tasting Notes: This Merlot is rich and expressive, with ripe plum and dark chocolate flavors mingling in perfect harmony. The texture is velvety, soft, and plush, with a rounded mouthfeel that invites you to keep sipping. There’s a slight dusting of spice and a hint of earthiness that brings complexity, balancing the wine’s rich fruit profile. The finish is smooth, with lingering notes of ripe fruit and a subtle touch of oak.
Why We Love It: Merlot often gets a bad rap, but this wine is a perfect reminder of how stunning and complex Merlot can be, especially when it’s from a region like Alexander Valley. Matanzas Creek’s 2021 Merlot is proof that Merlot can be both luxurious and complex without breaking the bank. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a full-bodied wine that’s smooth yet offers enough depth to be interesting. This wine pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a decadent mushroom risotto, making it a fantastic choice for your next dinner party.
Acclaim: 94 Points Wine Enthusiast
4. Best Napa Valley Red Wine
La Jota Vineyard Co Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, USA
Tasting Notes: This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon is a knockout. The blackcurrant flavors are rich and intense, complemented by a smokiness and espresso-like bitterness that adds layers of complexity. There's a firm tannin structure that gives the wine incredible aging potential, but it’s also approachable enough to enjoy now. The finish is long and satisfying, with a pleasant warmth that carries the wine’s deep, dark fruit flavors.
Why We Love It: La Jota Vineyard Co’s Howell Mountain Cabernet is a prime example of Napa Valley’s ability to produce wines that are both powerful and elegant. The combination of bold flavors and a silky texture makes this Cabernet a standout from the legendary Howell Mountain region. Whether you’re enjoying it with a steak, braised short ribs, or a hard cheese like aged cheddar, this wine delivers a satisfying experience with every sip. It’s the perfect wine to showcase the depth and intensity that Napa Valley Cabernets are known for.
Acclaim: 96 Points Vinous
5. Best Santa Barbara County Red Wine
Ex Post Facto | Santa Barbara County Syrah 2021
Varietal: Syrah
Region: Santa Barbara County, California, USA
Tasting Notes: This Syrah is bold yet balanced, with blackberry, black pepper, and a hint of smoked meat on the nose. The flavors are concentrated and deep, with a savory richness that’s beautifully balanced by a fresh acidity. The wine has a lovely round texture, and the finish is spicy and long-lasting, with a touch of leather and herbs that adds complexity.
Why We Love It: Santa Barbara County’s cooler climate gives this Syrah a unique personality—it’s bold and full of flavor but retains an elegance that’s often hard to find in a wine this powerful. What we love about this wine is how it manages to be adventurous and complex without feeling over-the-top. The smoky, spicy profile makes it a perfect pairing for roasted lamb chops or grilled meats, but it’s equally enjoyable on its own. It’s a stunning example of the potential Syrah has in this region and a must-try for anyone looking to explore the best of Santa Barbara wines.
Acclaim: 96 Points Decanter
6. Best Value Red Wine
Benvolio | Rosso 2021
Varietal: Red Blend (70% Refosco, 30% Merlot)
Region: Italy
Tasting Notes: This Italian red blend is approachable and food-friendly, with notes of dried fruit, cherry, and soft spice. The texture is smooth and easy-drinking, with just enough acidity to make it refreshing. There’s a subtle herbaceous quality that adds interest and depth, while the wine finishes clean and balanced.
Why We Love It: For an affordable, everyday wine, Benvolio Rosso offers fantastic value. It’s versatile, delicious, and perfect for casual weeknight meals. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, pizza, or a simple charcuterie board, this wine delivers on flavor without breaking the bank. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a high-quality wine that’s easy to love. It’s a perfect go-to for a weeknight dinner or when you just want a solid bottle to sip on with friends.
7. Best Red Wine Under $20
Murphy-Goode | California Pinot Noir 2022
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Region: California, USA
Tasting Notes: Think fresh, juicy tart cherries with just a touch of vanilla—this is a Pinot Noir that offers bright fruit flavors without being overwhelming. The light body makes it easy to sip, and there's a subtle, almost floral earthiness in the background that adds a bit of complexity. It’s the kind of wine you could sip on its own or pair with just about anything. The finish is smooth and refreshing, with lingering hints of cherry that keep you coming back for more.
Why We Love It: If you’re looking for a wine that’s both affordable and delivers on flavor, this is a fantastic pick. It’s a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its easy-drinking style and juicy fruit profile. Whether you're serving it at a casual dinner or enjoying it with friends on a porch, this Pinot hits all the right notes without breaking the bank. It’s a great example of why California Pinot can be so fun to drink!
Acclaim: 90 Points Wine Enthusiast
8. Best Red Wine Under $30
La Crema | Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2022
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Region: Sonoma Coast, California
Tasting Notes: This wine offers a gorgeous mix of ripe strawberries, a hint of baking spice, and a touch of oak. The tannins are silky, giving it a smooth texture that’s perfectly balanced by a bright acidity. There’s a subtle depth to it—think a light dusting of clove and a whisper of cinnamon—making it feel elegant and layered without being heavy. The finish is clean and fresh, with just enough fruit to keep it interesting.
Why We Love It: La Crema consistently produces wines that offer incredible value, and this Sonoma Coast Pinot is no exception. It’s got all the richness and complexity you want from a good Pinot, but it’s still approachable enough to drink on a Tuesday night or with a casual meal. It’s a great wine to reach for when you’re in the mood for something with a bit more depth but don’t want to spend a fortune. Plus, it’s a fantastic pairing for everything from roasted chicken to grilled salmon.
Acclaim: 91 Points Jeb Dunnuck
9. Best Red Blend
Matanzas Creek | Journey Red Blend 2015
Varietal: Red Blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)
Region: Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: This red blend is an absolute showstopper. The dark berry flavors are intense, but they’re balanced out by the perfect amount of spice and subtle vanilla. The texture is rich and smooth, with a little touch of mocha and a sprinkle of tobacco that add extra layers of complexity. The wine feels bold but not overbearing—perfect for sipping slowly or pairing with a hearty meal.
Why We Love It: It’s hard not to love a wine that’s this bold yet so beautifully balanced. The mix of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot gives it a depth and complexity that’s rare for blends in this price range. It’s a great choice when you’re looking for something that can stand up to a steak or a rich pasta dish. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties, where it pairs perfectly with everything from braised meats to strong cheeses.
Acclaim: 94 Points Jeb Dunnuck
10. Best Cabernet Sauvignon
Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: This Cabernet is the epitome of balance—rich dark fruit, like ripe raspberry and plum, meets savory aromas of leather, herbs, and a subtle dusting of cocoa. The tannins are structured but smooth, giving the wine a polished feel that’s perfect for aging. It’s full-bodied, with a deep, long finish that’s supported by just the right amount of acidity, leaving you wanting another sip.
Why We Love It: This wine really shows off what Sonoma’s Alexander Valley does best—Cabernet with power but also elegance. It’s a fantastic example of a wine that’s both complex and approachable, making it a great choice for both collectors and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re pairing it with a classic ribeye or saving it for a special occasion, it’s a wine that never disappoints. It’s got the structure to age, but honestly, it’s just as delicious now.
Acclaim: 94 Points Wine Enthusiast
11. Best Pinot Noir
Siduri | Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2022
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Tasting Notes: This Pinot kicks off with vibrant cranberry and fig aromas, but there’s more than just fruit here—there’s a touch of Chinese Five Spice and a bit of eucalyptus that give it an intriguing edge. The palate is full of fresh berries and a touch of plum, balanced by a hint of white pepper. It’s smooth, with medium acidity, which makes it versatile enough to pair with food or sip on its own. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind a touch of spice.
Why We Love It: This Pinot is a great example of the complexity that Santa Barbara County Pinots can have. It’s a wine that beautifully balances fruit-forward flavors with a savory, earthy quality that adds depth. It’s perfect for Pinot lovers who want something more interesting than just berries, and its versatility makes it a fantastic match for everything from roasted pork to mushroom dishes. Siduri nails the balance between being approachable and intriguing, which is why it’s a go-to for so many wine enthusiasts.
12. Best Zinfandel
Edmeades | Mendocino Zinfandel 2022
Varietal: 91% Zinfandel, 9% Syrah
Region: Mendocino County, California
Tasting Notes: This Zinfandel delivers lush flavors of blackberry and currant, with a subtle herbal touch of dried sage. The addition of Syrah adds a bit of spice and depth, rounding out the rich fruit profile. The finish is fresh and balanced, with just enough acidity to keep it lively. This wine has great texture—smooth and rounded, with a rich mouthfeel that doesn’t overpower.
Why We Love It: There’s something so satisfying about a Zinfandel like this—bold yet approachable, with just the right mix of fruit and spice. Edmeades is known for letting the vineyard shine through, and that’s exactly what you get with this wine. It’s a great choice for pairing with BBQ, burgers, or even a rich pasta dish. Plus, it’s nice to find a Zinfandel that doesn’t lean too heavily on jammy sweetness—it’s got balance and depth that make it a standout.
Acclaim: 90 Points Wine Enthusiast Magazine
13. Best Syrah/Shiraz
Copain | Baker Ranch Syrah 2017
Varietal: 100% Syrah
Region: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: A Syrah that feels like a perfect blend of Old World and New World style. The nose is deep, with smoky blackberry, black pepper, and savory notes of olive tapenade. On the palate, there’s a meaty richness that’s nicely balanced with herbal undertones and a touch of spice. The tannins are fine and well-structured, giving the wine a serious backbone while the finish is long, lingering with just a hint of minerality.
Why We Love It: What makes this Syrah stand out is the balance between boldness and finesse. It has the richness and depth that Syrah lovers crave, but it also shows incredible elegance and restraint. Whether you’re serving it with smoky grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a cheese board, it has the versatility to elevate a wide range of dishes. It’s a wine that pairs wonderfully with food, but it also shines on its own when you just want to sip and savor.
Acclaim: 93 Points Decanter
14. Best Merlot
Freemark Abbey | Bosché Merlot 2014
Varietal: 100% Merlot
Region: Napa Valley, California
Tasting Notes: This Merlot is the definition of plush. Rich black cherry and dark chocolate lead the charge, with a smooth vanilla note from the oak adding a layer of sweetness. The tannins are velvety, wrapping the fruit in a soft, almost decadent texture. As it opens up, there’s a hint of spice and an earthy undertone that adds complexity and makes the wine feel more nuanced.
Why We Love It: Merlot often gets overlooked, but this bottle is a perfect reminder of why Napa Merlot can be so special. It’s got all the richness and smoothness that Merlot fans love, with just enough structure and complexity to make it interesting. This wine is perfect for those who love a more elegant, easy-drinking wine that still packs a punch in flavor. It’s a great choice for a special occasion or when you just want to unwind with something that feels a little luxurious.
15. Best Italian Red Wine
Tenuta di Arceno Arcanum Valadorna Red Blend 2013
Varietal: 74% Cabernet Franc, 23% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot
Region: Tuscany, Italy
Tasting Notes: A wine that feels like Tuscany in a glass. The nose is all about ripe, rich fruit—think morello cherries and mission figs—balanced by spicy oak and delicate violet floral notes. The mouthfeel is smooth and round, with fine tannins and a velvety texture that coats your palate. The finish is long and warming, with a hint of tobacco and earthiness that lingers.
Why We Love It: Tenuta di Arceno is known for producing world-class wines that marry the Old World elegance of Tuscany with the structure and richness of Bordeaux varietals. This red blend is a prime example of that balance—smooth, rich, and elegant, but also complex and intriguing. It’s an exceptional choice for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Tuscany’s terroir in a wine that offers both power and finesse. Perfect for pairing with red meats, rich pastas, or even a cheese board to complement its bold flavors.
Acclaim: 95 Points Wine Advocate
16. Best Chilean Red Wine
Dakél | Pinot Noir 2020
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Aconcagua Valley, Chile
Tasting Notes: This Pinot Noir has a stunning depth of red and black fruit. You’ll get waves of cranberry, blackberry, and raspberry on the nose, with wild rose petal aromas adding a floral lift. On the palate, it’s silky and elegant, with flavors of ripe berries complemented by a subtle touch of spice. There’s a refreshing acidity that gives it a vibrant, clean finish, making each sip feel incredibly fresh.
Why We Love It: Chile’s cool-climate regions, like the Aconcagua Valley, are producing some truly spectacular Pinot Noir, and this bottle is a prime example. It’s got that delicate, nuanced fruit we love about Pinot, but with a bit of extra richness and complexity that sets it apart from more traditional Burgundy Pinots. For those looking to explore a less well-known wine region, this one is a must-try—it’s an under-the-radar gem that offers incredible value for the price.
Acclaim: 93 Points Vinous
17. Best Australian Red Wine
Giant Steps | Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia
Tasting Notes: This Pinot has a lovely freshness, with juicy red fruit flavors like ripe strawberries and cherries at the forefront. The earthy undertones and a touch of rose petal give it a sophisticated complexity, while the bright acidity and silky texture make it incredibly smooth and easy to drink. There’s a light herbal note on the finish that adds a nice touch of intrigue.
Why We Love It: This is a truly refined Pinot that showcases the best of the Yarra Valley’s cool climate. It’s delicate but has just enough structure to make it interesting and long-lasting on the palate. Whether you're pairing it with roast duck, a charcuterie board, or enjoying it on its own, this wine is both vibrant and elegant—an ideal representation of why Australian Pinot Noir is gaining such a great reputation. It’s one of those wines that surprises and delights with every sip.
Acclaim: 94 Points Wine Enthusiast
18. Best Oregon Red Wine
Willakenzie Estate | Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2022
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Tasting Notes: The nose of this Pinot Noir is a beautiful mix of red rose, anise, and black cherry, with a hint of savory minerality. The palate is rich yet elegant, with flavors of ripe berry fruit and a slight herbal note that adds complexity. The wine is smooth, with medium acidity that gives it a great sense of balance and a finish that lingers just long enough to keep you coming back for more.
Why We Love It: Willamette Valley has earned its reputation for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world, and this bottle is a perfect example. It’s a wine that effortlessly balances fruit, earth, and acidity in a way that makes it so easy to drink and pair with food. Whether you're enjoying it with grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, or a hearty dish, it’s a versatile wine that shows off the region’s unique ability to craft balanced, complex Pinots.
Acclaim: 91 Points Wine Spectator
19. Best French Red Wine
19. Château Lassègue | Les Cadrans de Lassègue Red Blend 2021
Varietal: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Region: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
Tasting Notes: This Bordeaux blend is beautifully aromatic, with bright red fruit—think cherry and currant—immediately leaping from the glass. There’s a subtle spice and floral lift to the nose, and the palate continues with a nice mix of fruit and savory notes. The tannins are well-integrated, giving it structure without being too harsh, and the finish is soft and polished, with just the right amount of earthiness.
Why We Love It: This is a modern take on a classic Bordeaux blend. It’s refined, approachable, and perfect for anyone who loves a wine with both fruitiness and structure. The balance between the Merlot’s round fruit and the tannic grip of Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc makes this a versatile and food-friendly wine. Whether you're enjoying it with a steak, lamb, or a rich pâté, it offers the perfect level of elegance and complexity.
20. Best Luxury Red Wine
20. Matanzas Creek | Sonoma County Brut Rosé
Varietal: 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec
Region: Sonoma County, California
Tasting Notes: The epitome of luxury, this wine is rich and complex with ripe plum, dark chocolate, and violet blossom on the nose. As it unfolds, subtle layers of new leather, sweet baking spices, and freshly turned clay add depth and intrigue. The mouthfeel is smooth and opulent, with velvety tannins and a long, lingering finish that invites you to savor each sip.
Why We Love It: Vérité has set the bar for luxury wine, and La Muse is an absolute masterpiece. This Bordeaux-inspired blend brings together incredible depth, balance, and sophistication, making it the perfect choice for special occasions or collectors looking for something that will age beautifully. The complexity of this wine makes it a joy to experience over time, revealing even more nuance as it opens up in the glass. It’s the kind of wine that speaks to the art of winemaking and is truly a wine lover’s dream.
Acclaim: 100 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Uncork the Best Red Wines from YourWineStore
Whether you’re searching for the best Napa Valley red wine or an approachable Pinot Noir for under $20, this list covers every occasion and preference. These top-rated red wines have been carefully selected to cater to seasoned wine lovers and curious newcomers alike.
And the best part? You can buy all these wines and more at YourWineStore, the premier online wine store. Shopping with us isn’t just simple—it’s a complete wine lover experience. Here’s what sets YourWineStore apart:
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