Red Wine

More about Red Wine

Red wine grapes thrive across an extraordinary range of climates — though just 32 varieties account for most of what's poured in Ireland. A few quick answers to the questions we're asked most, and for the full picture, our Complete Guide to Red Wine goes much deeper.

What is a Red wine and how is it made?

Red wine comes from black or red grapes fermented with their skins still in — that contact is what gives the wine its colour, tannin and much of its depth of flavour. After harvest, the grapes are crushed and fermented at 20–30°C, often followed by a softening malolactic conversion, before the wine is aged in barrel or tank to develop further.

What are the major Red wine types?

Cabernet Sauvignon brings bold blackcurrant structure, Merlot is softer and plummy, Pinot Noir leans elegant with cherry and earth, Shiraz/Syrah turns spicy and dark-fruited, Tempranillo offers cherry and leather, Malbec is rich with plum and blackberry, Sangiovese is bright with cherry and herbs, and Grenache brings juicy raspberry fruit. Many of the world's great reds are blends of these varieties, from Bordeaux to a Rhône-style GSM.

How many calories are in a bottle of Red wine?

A standard 750ml bottle of red wine runs to roughly 600–650 calories, most of it from the alcohol itself — drier styles sit at the lower end, while higher-ABV or sweeter reds can reach closer to 700.

How many calories are in a glass of Red wine?

A standard 175ml glass comes to around 140–160 calories, or 100–115 for a smaller 125ml pour. It's the alcohol level that drives this, not the grape variety.

How long does Red wine last once opened?

Re-cork and refrigerate an opened bottle and it'll generally keep for 3–5 days. Tannic reds like Cabernet tend to hold up longest, around 4–5 days, while lighter styles such as Pinot Noir are best within 2–3. Older, more delicate wines fade fastest — drink within a day.

How to store red wine?

Red wine keeps best somewhere cool, dark and still, at a consistent 10–15°C and around 70% humidity — lying on its side if it's cork-sealed. A cool cupboard is fine for the short term; a wine fridge or cellar is worth it if you're holding bottles longer. Once opened, refrigerate.