Chillable Reds Perfect for the Summertime
It’s officially summer, and while most minds jump to crisp whites and “rosé all day,” sometimes you need something with a little more oomph to stand up to a good old-fashioned barbecue. That’s where this summer’s wine style shines: the chillable red.
What exactly makes a red "chillable"?
The best chillable wines are typically light-to-medium bodied, with freshness, soft tannins, and loads of bright fruit. While most reds are best served at cellar temperature (around 60°F), chillable reds hold up beautifully when cooled to 50-55°F. Pop them in the fridge for 30–45 minutes, or keep them on ice while the grill heats up.
Let’s explore some of our favorite chillable reds that are perfect for summer grilling and relaxed outdoor sipping:
Six Chillable & Grillable Reds:
Domaine Les Fines Graves Moulin-à-Vent (Beaujolais)
A crowd-pleaser that punches above its weight, this Cru Beaujolais is plush, juicy, and bursting with bright red fruits. It is versatile enough to pair with grilled vegetables, and ideal with lamb chops, steak, and chicken. A great go-to for any BBQ spread.
Thierry Delaunay "La Vignette" Gamay (Loire Valley)
Semi-carbonic maceration gives this wine bright fruit and spice. Ultra-fresh and easy to drink with notes of cherry, strawberry, and black pepper, “La Vignette” Gamay is a perfect match with grilled sausages, smokey corn on the cob, or classic summer burgers.
Domaine Dozon Chinon “Clos du Saut au Loup” (Loire Valley)
This Loire Valley red made from 100% Cabernet Franc offers darker fruit, a touch of herbal character, and a more structured profile. With a light chill, it complements heavier grilled fare like sausages, pulled pork, and savory BBQ ribs.
Emile Beyer Pinot Noir "Les Traditions" (Alsace)
The only red grape permitted in Alsace AOC, this Pinot Noir is ripe and round on the palate, with inviting notes of red cherry and raspberry fruit. It’s a dream with grilled salmon, saucy BBQ chicken, or even a juicy cheeseburger.
Château Ste. Eulalie "Plaisir d’Eulalie" (Minervois)
A Mediterranean red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan, this wine offers black and red fruits, soft tannins, and a hint of herbs and licorice. Our favorite French wine for pizza, it’s also a delight to enjoy with grilled vegetables, lamb, or seared tuna.
Domaine La Perdrière Côtes du Rhône (Southern Rhône)
Formerly Domaine Chamfort, this bold and balanced red is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault. Red and black fruits meet peppery spice in a wine that’s vibrant when slightly chilled and absolutely perfect with grilled beef, lamb, or game.
Whether you are flipping burgers, grilling chicken or slow-smoking ribs, these reds are built to chill and ready to please any crowd. Just don’t forget to bring an extra bottle as they tend to disappear quickly.