When the temperature drops, evenings grow longer, and snow drifts past the windowpane, there’s nothing quite like a glass of rich, comforting red wine to warm both body and soul. Winter is the perfect season to explore full-bodied, flavorful reds that offer depth, structure, and pair beautifully with hearty, soul-satisfying meals.
Some of my go-to favorites for the icy months of January, February, and March include bold, robust, tannic Cabernet Sauvignons; plummy, velvety Merlots; and spicy, fruit-forward yet gentle Malbecs. These are wines every red wine lover should keep in their cellar, ready to pour when winter calls for comfort, warmth, and a touch of indulgence.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold presence, depth, and structure. It often opens with aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, layered with hints of cedar, tobacco, cocoa, and sometimes green bell pepper or fresh herbs. On the palate, it is full-bodied with firm tannins and balanced acidity, delivering both power and elegance. With age, Cabernet develops remarkable complexity, with leather, spice, and earthy notes woven into its dark fruit core. Celebrated not only for its intensity, it is also versatile and endlessly rewarding.
Some beautiful Cabs I’ve tasted recently include:
Château Ducru Madame de Beaucaillou 2023 – Bordeaux, France
This polished Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot reveals layers of blackcurrant, ripe blackberry, and dark cherry, accented by whispers of cinnamon, white pepper, smoke, and tobacco. Medium-bodied yet concentrated, it delivers intensity and depth with precision. Fine tannins provide structure and support, guiding the wine to a vibrant, lingering finish that is both elegant and refined. $30
Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – Columbia Valley, Washington
A masterful blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec, this 2021 Cabernet opens with an intense nose of dark plum compote and bittersweet chocolate, on the palate, it is generous and concentrated, unfolding with waves of blackberry preserve, cassis, toasted cedar, and a touch of espresso. Supple yet structured tannins provide a seamless backbone, supporting abundant fruit and refined balance through a long, polished finish. $50
Merryvale Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – Napa Valley, California
A commanding blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, this Napa Cabernet embodies strength wrapped in finesse. The bouquet opens with lifted violet tones, crushed graphite, and seasoned cedar. On the palate, well-integrated tannins provide shape and poise, supporting layers of cassis and black cherry that unfold gracefully. Beautifully balanced today, this wine has the structure to mature elegantly over the next decade or more, gaining complexity and refinement with age. $78
Merlot
Merlot is celebrated for its smooth, approachable style and generous fruit character. It offers inviting aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, and blackberry, complemented by hints of chocolate, vanilla, and gentle spice. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, Merlot’s velvety tannins and supple texture make it easy to enjoy from the first sip. Known for its warmth and elegance, it balances richness with subtlety, finishing mellow and polished rather than overpowering.
And here are two I tasted recently:
Northstar Merlot 2021 – Columbia Valley, Washington
This 82% Merlot and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon blend captures the essence of Columbia Valley terroir. Concentrated aromas of black cherry and ripe raspberry are accented by fresh mint and subtle cream. The palate revealing layers of dark chocolate, graham cracker, and polished cedar that flow effortlessly. Lush but luminous, the wine’s velvety texture, harmonious structure, and enduring finish make it a pleasure to enjoy now, while offering the balance and complexity to age gracefully. $50
Famiglia Cotarella Montiano 2020 – Montefiascone & Castiglione in Teverina
Crafted from 100% Merlot grown on volcanic soils, this 2020 Montiano exudes elegance and depth. Hand-harvested grapes are vinified in stainless steel and aged 12 months in barriques, producing a remarkable red. The nose is opulent, with sweet, smoky blackberry, violet, and plum notes layered with subtle mineral undertones. On the palate, it is refined, combining intensity with a velvety texture. Silky, finely grained tannins glide effortlessly, lifted by vibrant acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish with hints of dark fruit, chocolate, walnut, and delicate florals. $75
Malbec
Deep and expressive, Malbec is known for lush fruit and velvety texture. It opens with aromas of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, accented by violet, cocoa, and a hint of sweet spice and lanolin. Full-bodied and richly textured, it delivers dark fruit flavors balanced by supple tannins and a soft, inviting finish. Sun-soaked vineyards give Malbec warmth and intensity, while evolving notes of leather, vanilla, and smoke add depth and intrigue.
Aluvia Malbec 2022 – Gualtallary, Mendoza
From limestone-rich vineyards in Gualtallary, this 2022 Malbec is a striking expression of altitude and terroir. Aromas of dark plum, blackberry, elderberry, and blueberry mingle with violet, wild herbs, licorice, and subtle incense. On the palate, it is succulent, balancing juicy fruit with chalky minerality and finely structured tannins. A delicate veil of fruit carries through to a long finish, enriched by wild herb and limestone notes. $30
What a spectacular set of wines for winter! Hopefully, I’ve tempted you to try them soon. Until the next one, cheers! Silvina
#thoughtsoflawina #winterwines #bigreds
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