Before testing this, I didn’t realize how much the choice of a red blend can elevate a meal or a relaxed evening. The Our Daily Red Blend truly caught my attention with its vibrant raspberry and cherry notes, all while being USDA Organic and preservative-free. It’s crafted to let the grapes shine, making it perfect for anyone seeking a pure, authentic taste without added chemicals.
Compared to others, like the rich Rabble Red Blend with its dark cherry and coffee aromas, or the silky Menage A Trois Silk with hints of rose and spice, the Our Daily stands out for its clean, organic profile and fruity brightness. It’s versatile enough for stews or solo sipping. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend the Our Daily Red Blend for its quality, health-conscious appeal, and genuine vineyard expression.
Top Recommendation: Our Daily Red Blend, 750 mL
Why We Recommend It: This wine’s USDA Organic certification, absence of preservatives, and vegan, gluten-free status ensure purity and healthfulness. Its juicy raspberry and cherry notes deliver a lively taste. Unlike more complex, heavily spiced options, it offers a bright, approachable flavor that suits many occasions, making it the best all-around choice.
Best red blends: Our Top 5 Picks
- Our Daily Red Blend, 750 mL – Best Red Blends to Try
- Rabble Red Blend, 750 ml – Best Value
- Menage A Trois Silk Red Blend, 750 ml – Best for Smooth, Silky Red Blends
- Josh Cellars Legacy Red Blend California Red Wine 750ml – Best California Red Blends
- Menage A Trois, Red Blend, 750mL – Best for Versatile Red Blends
Our Daily Red Blend, 750 mL
- ✓ Authentic vineyard flavor
- ✓ Smooth and easy to drink
- ✓ Organic and preservative-free
- ✕ Lacks complexity for connoisseurs
- ✕ Slightly limited flavor profile
| Alcohol Content | 13.5% ABV (approximate, typical for red blends) |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Grape Varieties | Red blend (specific varieties not specified, likely a mix of red grapes) |
| Organic Certification | USDA Organic |
| Additives | No added sulfites or preservatives |
| Vegan and Gluten-Free | Yes |
Instead of the usual heavy, chemically-treated reds I’ve tried, this Our Daily Red Blend feels like taking a sip from a well-tended vineyard. The moment I uncorked it, the aroma of fresh raspberries and cherries hit my nose, inviting me to indulge.
It’s noticeably lighter on preservatives, which makes the whole experience feel more genuine and authentic.
The wine’s texture is smooth, with a juicy burst of fruit that’s balanced by subtle floral notes of violets. I found it pairs beautifully with hearty vegetable stews or roasted mushrooms—things I love to cook on cozy weekends.
Its organic certification and no added sulfites made me feel good about drinking it without compromising flavor or quality.
What really stood out is how approachable it is. Unlike some reds that can be overwhelming or too tannic, this one offers a gentle, fruity profile that’s easy to enjoy even if you’re not a wine connoisseur.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and gluten-free just adds to its appeal for everyday sipping or casual dinners.
Overall, this blend provides a refreshing departure from typical reds—light, expressive, and honest in flavor. It’s a great choice when you want something reliable yet vibrant enough to elevate your meal or relax with after a long day.
Rabble Red Blend, 750 ml
- ✓ Rich, layered flavor profile
- ✓ Smooth, balanced tannins
- ✓ Versatile pairing options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not very tannic
| Region | Paso Robles, California, USA |
| Alcohol Content | Approximately 13-15% ABV (typical for red blends) |
| Bottle Size | 750 ml |
| Grape Composition | Red blend (specific varietals not specified, but includes dark cherry, blackberries, blueberry, boysenberry) |
| Vintage | Characteristic of the vintage (specific year not provided) |
| Tasting Notes | Dark cherry, blackberries, chocolate, coffee, blueberry pie, cocoa powder, boysenberry |
As I poured the Rabble Red Blend into my glass, the deep ruby hue immediately caught my eye. The first swirl released a burst of dark cherry and blackberry aromas that practically jumped out, making me smile before I even took a sip.
On the palate, this wine delivers a rich, decadent experience. The dark fruit flavors are bold but well-balanced, with subtle hints of chocolate and coffee that add complexity.
I noticed the blueberry pie and boysenberry notes especially shine through after a few sips, giving it a layered, almost dessert-like quality.
The tannins are smooth but present, providing just enough structure to satisfy without feeling harsh. The finish is long, with a gentle fade of cocoa powder and fruit, leaving you craving another glass.
It’s surprisingly versatile, pairing well with everything from roasted meats to hearty pasta dishes.
Handling this bottle, I appreciated the weighty 750 ml size—it feels substantial without being cumbersome. The label design is sleek and modern, hinting at the quality inside.
Overall, it’s a delightful red blend that balances vibrant fruit with complex undertones, making it perfect for both casual sipping and special occasions.
Menage A Trois Silk Red Blend, 750 ml
- ✓ Silky smooth texture
- ✓ Versatile pairing options
- ✓ Rich, layered flavors
- ✕ Vintage may vary
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Grape Varietals | Pinot Noir, Malbec, Petite Sirah |
| Vintage Year | 2018 (may vary by release) |
| Alcohol Content | Typically around 13-15% ABV (standard for red blends, specific percentage not provided) |
| Bottle Size | 750 ml |
| Tasting Notes | Cherry, raspberry, rose petals, spice, silky smooth, full-bodied |
| Awards | 91 Points from Jerry Mead New World Wine Competition (2020) |
There’s a common idea that red blends are just simple, fruity wines meant for casual sipping. But the Menage A Trois Silk Red Blend completely debunks that myth with its silky texture and layered flavors.
The moment you pour this wine, you’ll notice its deep, inviting color—a rich ruby with hints of garnet. The aroma hits you with a burst of cherry and raspberry, complemented by delicate floral notes of rose petals and a whisper of spice.
It’s smooth from the first sip, with a full-bodied feel that coats your palate without feeling heavy.
What really stands out is how well-balanced it is. The fruitiness is vibrant yet refined, making it versatile enough to pair with everything from roast chicken to steak or even salmon.
I found it especially enjoyable with a slightly spicy dish—its subtle spice hints tie everything together beautifully.
The 2018 vintage, awarded 91 points by the Jerry Mead New World Wine Competition, lives up to its reputation. The blend of Pinot Noir, Malbec, and Petite Sirah creates a complex yet approachable flavor profile.
You get depth and richness, but it’s never overpowering or overly bold.
Handling this bottle is a breeze, thanks to its sleek 750 ml size and elegant label design. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and more special occasions.
Honestly, once you try it, you might wonder why red blends are often overlooked as anything but casual wines.
If I had to pick a favorite feature, it’s the silky smooth finish that leaves a lingering warmth, inviting another sip. Just be mindful—the vintage can vary, so each bottle might offer a slightly different experience.
Josh Cellars Legacy Red Blend California Red Wine 750ml
- ✓ Rich, bold flavors
- ✓ Well-balanced and smooth
- ✓ Great with grilled meats
- ✕ Vintage may vary
- ✕ Slightly limited complexity
| Bottle Size | 750 ml |
| Wine Type | Red Blend |
| Grape Flavors | Ripe plum, black cherry, dark fruit |
| Tasting Notes | Toasted cedar, crushed black pepper |
| Body Style | Medium bodied |
| Pairing Suggestions | BBQ ribs, leg of lamb, grilled skirt steak |
You’re grilling up some ribs on a warm Saturday afternoon when you decide to crack open a bottle of Josh Cellars Legacy Red Blend.
The deep, ruby color catches your eye immediately, promising a rich experience ahead. As you pour, vibrant aromas of ripe plum and black cherry fill the air, mingling with a subtle hint of toasted cedar.
Taking that first sip, you’ll notice how well-balanced it is—neither overpowering nor too light. The medium body makes it versatile, pairing perfectly with your smoky barbecue without overwhelming your palate.
The dark fruit flavors are front and center, complemented by a touch of crushed black pepper that adds just enough spice. It’s smooth, with soft tannins that make it approachable even if you’re not a wine connoisseur.
Handling the bottle is straightforward, and the rich flavor profile makes it a go-to for casual gatherings or a cozy night in. The finish is lingering but not overpowering, leaving you with a satisfying sense of completeness.
Honestly, this wine feels crafted with care, making every sip feel like a small indulgence. It’s a reliable choice that elevates your grilled feast without needing any fancy accompaniments.
If you’re after a well-rounded red blend that pairs effortlessly with hearty foods, this one’s definitely worth trying. It hits that sweet spot of flavor, balance, and affordability.
Menage A Trois, Red Blend, 750mL
- ✓ Rich fruit flavors
- ✓ Smooth and silky texture
- ✓ Great pairing versatility
- ✕ Not very bold
- ✕ Slightly light-bodied
| Grape Varieties | Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Vintage Year | 2017 |
| Alcohol Content | Typically around 13.5-15% ABV (standard for red blends, inferred from category) |
| Bottle Size | 750mL |
| Region | California, USA |
| Tasting Score | 91 Points from the Tasting panel in September 2019 |
Compared to other red blends I’ve sampled, Menage A Trois Red Blend feels like a familiar friend with a fresh twist. The moment you uncork it, you notice the rich, inviting aroma of blackberry and raspberry jam—almost like biting into a fresh fruit basket.
It’s smooth on the palate but delivers a surprising depth that makes it stand out.
The wine’s silky texture makes it incredibly easy to drink, even for those new to reds. Its soft dryness is balanced by a firm tannic backbone, giving it a bit of structure without feeling harsh.
I found it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or meats, thanks to its generous mouthfeel and fruit-forward profile.
One thing I appreciated is how well it holds up on the table—no dulling after a little air. The 2017 vintage snagged 91 points, and I’d say this latest release lives up to that praise.
It’s a versatile choice, perfect for casual dinners or a laid-back gathering. Overall, it’s a well-rounded red that combines quality with approachability.
While it’s flavorful and smooth, I did notice that it might not be the best pick if you prefer super tannic or bold reds. It’s definitely more on the soft, silky side, which could limit its appeal to those seeking a more intense wine experience.
What Are Red Blends and Why Are They Popular?
Red blends are a popular category of wines that combine multiple grape varieties to create a unique flavor profile.
- Flavor Complexity: Red blends often feature a mix of different grapes, which allows winemakers to achieve a broader range of flavors and aromas. This complexity can include notes of dark fruits, spices, and earthy undertones, making each blend unique and enjoyable for various palates.
- Food Pairing Versatility: Due to their varied flavor profiles, red blends are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. They can complement a wide array of dishes, from grilled meats to pasta, enhancing the dining experience by balancing the flavors of the meal.
- Affordability: Many red blends are produced at a more accessible price point compared to single-varietal wines. This affordability makes them a popular choice for casual wine drinkers and gatherings, allowing people to enjoy high-quality wine without breaking the bank.
- Winemaker Creativity: The blending process allows winemakers to exercise their creativity, experimenting with different combinations to achieve the desired taste. This artistic aspect of winemaking appeals to consumers looking for innovative and distinctive wines.
- Market Trends: In recent years, there has been a rising trend in the popularity of red blends, partly due to marketing and consumer preferences for approachable wines. This trend has led to a wider availability of red blends in stores and restaurants, making them easier to find and enjoy.
Which Grapes Are Typically Used in Red Blends?
The best red blends typically incorporate a variety of grape types to create complex flavors and aromas.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: This grape is known for its full-bodied structure, rich tannins, and dark fruit flavors like blackcurrant and blackberry. Its bold profile adds depth and longevity to red blends, making it a favorite among winemakers.
- Merlot: Merlot is often softer and more approachable than Cabernet Sauvignon, featuring flavors of plum, cherry, and chocolate. It contributes a smooth texture to blends, balancing the intensity of other varietals.
- Syrah/Shiraz: Syrah (or Shiraz as it’s known in Australia) brings peppery spice and dark fruit notes, such as blackberry and plum. Its robust flavor profile adds complexity and can enhance the aromatic qualities of a red blend.
- Zinfandel: Zinfandel is known for its jammy fruit flavors and spicy undertones, making it a versatile component in blends. It introduces vibrant acidity and fruit-forward characteristics, which can brighten the overall flavor profile.
- Malbec: Malbec offers deep color and rich fruit flavors, often showcasing plum and blackberry, along with a smooth, velvety texture. Its bold character enhances the structure of red blends, providing additional depth.
- Sangiovese: This Italian grape adds bright acidity and cherry flavors, often accompanied by herbal and earthy notes. Sangiovese’s lively acidity can balance the richness of other grapes in a blend, making it a valuable addition.
- Grenache: Known for its fruitiness and subtle spice, Grenache contributes soft tannins and flavors of red berries and herbs. It enhances the blend’s aromatics and adds a touch of elegance and finesse.
What Key Characteristics Distinguish the Best Red Blends?
The best red blends are distinguished by several key characteristics that enhance their complexity and appeal.
- Balance: A well-balanced red blend has a harmonious interplay between acidity, tannins, and fruitiness. This balance ensures that no single element overwhelms the others, allowing the wine to be smooth and enjoyable to drink.
- Complexity: The best red blends often feature a mix of grape varieties, contributing to a layered flavor profile. This complexity can include notes of dark fruits, spices, and earthy undertones, making each sip a unique experience.
- Aroma: A rich, inviting aroma is a hallmark of high-quality red blends. The bouquet can include a range of scents from floral to fruity, which can enhance the overall tasting experience and set expectations for the palate.
- Finish: The finish of a red blend refers to the lingering flavors and sensations after swallowing. A long, pleasant finish is often indicative of a well-crafted wine, leaving a lasting impression that encourages a second sip.
- Food Pairing Versatility: The best red blends are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to rich pastas. Their balanced nature and complex flavors make them suitable for both casual and formal dining experiences.
- Ageability: Some red blends possess the potential to develop and evolve over time, improving with age. This characteristic is often a sign of quality, as the wine can gain depth and richness as it matures in the bottle.
Which Regions Are Renowned for Producing Exceptional Red Blends?
Some of the most renowned regions for producing exceptional red blends include:
- Bordeaux, France: Known as the birthplace of some of the finest red blends, Bordeaux primarily combines Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, often with Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, or Malbec. The region’s unique terroir and climate contribute to the complexity and balance of its wines, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
- California, USA: California, particularly Napa Valley, has gained a reputation for its bold and fruit-forward red blends, often featuring varieties like Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region’s diverse microclimates allow winemakers to experiment, resulting in a wide range of styles that appeal to different palates.
- Tuscany, Italy: Tuscany is famous for its Super Tuscan blends, which typically include Sangiovese alongside international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These wines are known for their rich flavors, firm tannins, and the ability to age gracefully, reflecting the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
- Australia: Australia excels in producing bold and innovative red blends, particularly in regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, where Shiraz often takes center stage. These blends frequently incorporate Grenache, Mourvèdre, and other varietals, resulting in wines that are intense, fruit-driven, and sometimes peppery.
- South Africa: South Africa’s red blends, particularly from regions like Stellenbosch, often combine Bordeaux varietals with local grapes such as Pinotage. The country’s unique climate allows for the development of complex flavors, making their blends both intriguing and distinctive.
What Are Some Top-Rated Red Blends You Should Try?
Some of the best red blends you should try include:
- Prisoner Wine Company The Prisoner: This is a bold and rich red blend primarily made from Zinfandel, with other varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. It features flavors of ripe black fruit, chocolate, and spice, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats and hearty pasta dishes.
- Orin Swift Machete: A unique blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, Machete offers a full-bodied experience with deep flavors of dark berries and hints of black pepper. Its opulent texture and lingering finish make it a luxurious choice for special occasions or a cozy night in.
- Columbia Crest H3 Merlot: This Washington State blend showcases Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, resulting in a smooth and approachable wine. It features notes of plum, cherry, and vanilla, making it an excellent companion for roasted chicken or mushroom risotto.
- Josh Cellars Bourbon Barrel Red: A blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon aged in bourbon barrels, this wine is rich and flavorful, with hints of caramel, vanilla, and dark fruit. The unique aging process adds complexity, making it perfect for pairing with barbecue or spicy dishes.
- Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Red Blend: This wine combines Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a balance of fruitiness and earthiness. Its lush flavors of blackberry and dark chocolate make it versatile enough to enjoy with a variety of foods, from pizza to steak.
What Should You Keep in Mind When Choosing a Red Blend?
When choosing the best red blends, consider the following factors:
- Flavor Profile: The flavor profile of a red blend can vary significantly depending on the grape varieties used. Look for blends that combine grapes known for their fruitiness, such as Merlot or Zinfandel, with those that offer structure and complexity, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
- Region: The region where the wine is produced can greatly influence its characteristics. Regions like Bordeaux are famous for their red blends, often showcasing a balance of acidity and tannins, while California blends may lean towards a bolder, fruit-forward style.
- Alcohol Content: The alcohol content in red blends can range widely, typically between 13% to 15%. Higher alcohol levels can contribute to a fuller body and increased intensity of flavors, but it’s essential to balance this with acidity and tannins to avoid overwhelming your palate.
- Food Pairing: Consider what food you plan to pair with the wine, as certain blends complement specific dishes better than others. For example, a blend with a rich, bold flavor might pair well with grilled meats, while a lighter blend is better suited for pasta or poultry dishes.
- Price Point: Red blends can vary in price, so it’s important to establish your budget. While there are excellent options available in every price range, more expensive bottles often offer unique characteristics and higher quality, making them worth considering for special occasions.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, your personal taste should guide your choice. Take the time to explore different blends, noting preferences for sweetness, tannin levels, and fruitiness to help refine your selections in the future.
How Can You Pair Food Effectively with Red Blends?
Pairing food with the best red blends can enhance the dining experience by complementing the wine’s flavors and aromas.
- Grilled Meats: Red blends, especially those with bold tannins, pair excellently with grilled meats such as steak or lamb. The smoky flavors from the grill amplify the wine’s complexity, while the fat in the meat softens the tannins, making for a balanced taste.
- Rich Pasta Dishes: Pasta dishes with heavy sauces like Bolognese or arrabbiata work well with red blends. The acidity in the sauce can match the tannins in the wine, creating a harmonious blend that enhances both the dish and the drink.
- Cheeses: A selection of cheeses, particularly aged varieties like cheddar or gouda, pairs nicely with red blends. The richness and saltiness of the cheese can complement the wine’s fruitiness, making each sip and bite more enjoyable.
- Stews and Braised Dishes: Hearty stews and braised dishes, such as beef bourguignon, are ideal companions for full-bodied red blends. The depth of flavor in these dishes matches the complexity of the wine, creating a satisfying meal.
- Dark Chocolate Desserts: For a unique pairing, consider serving dark chocolate desserts with red blends. The wine’s fruity and sometimes spicy notes can enhance the chocolate’s richness, making for a decadent finish to a meal.