The most popular red wines from Italy and France

There is no doubt that red wines are the most famous and appreciated in absolute terms: despite a strenuous struggle, red wine is generally consumed in greater quantities than white wine. But which are the most popular red wines in the world?

Red wines between Italy and France

We have compiled a list of red wines which cannot miss in the cellar of a wine lover and we have done so by focusing on the two wine-producing countries that you can find in our natural wines online shop, namely Italy and France.

The most famous Italian red wines

Chianti and Chianti Classico

Produced in the green Tuscan hills, both Chianti and Chianti Classico boast denominations of controlled origin including the territories of Florence, Siena, Arezzo, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato (and a more restricted area as regards the Classico). The organoleptic characteristics of Chianti are well known: ruby ​​red colour, intense odour, velvety and slightly tannic flavour. Chianti is an excellent combination with roasts and game, but also with mature cheeses.
Our tip: organic Chianti Guido Gualandi Montebetti Riserva Chianti Colli Fiorentini DOCG 2011

Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino comes from the Tuscan territory as well, produced in the Montalcino area in the province of Siena with 100% Sangiovese grapes. The organoleptic characteristics boast a ruby ​​red colour tending to garnet, an intense aroma recalling geranium, cherry and spices and a dry, warm and intense flavour. Excellent with Tuscan pecorino, with red meats and with elaborate dishes.
Our tip: organic Brunello di Montalcino Casa Raia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2009

Barolo

Barolo is the most famous wine produced in another area of ​​Italian wine production, Piedmont, with 100% Nebbiolo grapes. The denomination of origin includes the municipalities of Barolo, Castiglione Falletto and Serralunga d’Alba and part of the territories of the municipalities of La Morra, Monforte d’Alba, Roddi, Verduno, Cherasco, Diano d’Alba, Novello and Grinzane Cavour in the province of Cuneo. Excellent with red meat roasts, braised meats, game and mature cheeses.

The most famous French red wines

Cabernet Sauvignon

Famous for its body and intense red colour, Cabernet Sauvignon is undoubtedly one of the most famous red wines in the world. Obtained from the grapes of the same name, a meeting of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, it is mainly produced in the south of France, particularly in the Bordeaux region. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are the perfect match with tasty and rich dishes; on the contrary, they don’t go very well with delicate dishes, since the taste of the wine tends to cancel the taste of the food.
Our tip: Biodynamic Cabernet Sauvignon Alla Costiera Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Merlot

Merlot, whose name derives from the predilection that the blackbird has for its grapes, is a wine originating from Gironde in France. The grape of the same name is called “black berry” and gives this wine the typical intense red colour, almost blueberry tint. The other organoleptic characteristics boast freshness, robustness and fruity and floral aromas with hints of plum, blueberry and vanilla. It goes well with grilled meats, tasty cheese and lamb.

Pinot Noir

Another French region famous for its wine, another grape with incredible organoleptic qualities: the Pinot Noir takes its name from the pine tree because its conical shape recalls it and it grows mainly in the Burgundy region. While the French one produces an earthy wine with fruity aromas, there is a second variety cultivated in warm climates (for example California) which instead presents very fruity, full-bodied wines, rich in aromas. Pinot Noir wines are a perfect match with meat and cheese dishes, especially goat ones.
Our tip: Biodynamic Pinot Noir Domaine Barmès Buecher Pinot Noir Vieilles Vignes 2012