Is Red Wine Good For You?
There has been much debate over the years about whether drinking red wine is good for you. Some studies have shown that moderate red wine consumption can actually provide some health benefits.
Certain substances in red wine called antioxidants can help to protect your cells from damage, and it has also been linked with a lower risk of heart disease. Compared to red wine, a typical white wine has a lower level of antioxidants present, hence most people opt for red wines when it comes to health benefits.
However, it is important to remember that, with most things, moderation is key especially when it comes to drinking alcohol.
That being said, red wine can be healthy for you, and here are some of our red wine picks.
Healthy Red Wines That Are Good For You
1. Pinot Noir
Pinot noir is a lightweight red wine that originated in the Burgundy region of France and is considered one of the healthiest wine types. When it comes to health benefits, pinot noir is a good source of resveratrol, an antioxidant compound that has been linked to reduced inflammation and blood clots, improved heart health and damage prevention in blood vessels. In addition, pinot noir wines tend to be lower in sugar, alcohol, and calories than other types of wine. So, the next time you're looking for a healthy wine to enjoy, reach for a bottle of pinot noir.
Our Choice:
Cambria Julia's Pinot Noir 2018 Jackson Family Wine
Cambria Julia's Pinot Noir 2018 is a medium-bodied red wine with complex aromas of dark fruit, spice, and dried herbs. The flavors are well-balanced with juicy acidity and balanced tannins. We recommend this bottle for its food-friendly qualities and easy drinkability. The Cambria Julia's Pinot Noir 2018 is an excellent value for the price and is sure to please both novice and experienced wine drinkers alike.
2. Merlot
Merlot wines are often described as being "smooth" and "velvety." Merlot is also a rich source of resveratrol, which can help your cardiovascular health. Studies have found that Merlot contains high levels of procyanidin, a compound that helps to prevent cholesterol from buildup in the arteries. If you are looking for a red wine that is good for your heart health, Merlot is a great choice.
Our Choice:
Vergelegen Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot 2015
A red wine from South Africa. The wine is made with 100% Merlot grapes and aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. The result is a full-bodied wine with aromas of blackberry, plum, and chocolate. The palate is well-balanced, with flavors of dark fruit and spice. Not to mention, this is also vegan and vegetarian-friendly. This is an excellent wine to pair with grilled meats or hearty stews.
3. Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular red wines around, and for good reason. Not only does it have a delicious, full-bodied flavor, but it also offers some impressive health benefits. Cabernet Sauvignon is rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage and help prevent coronary artery disease. The wine is also a good source of resveratrol, a compound that has been linked to heart health and longevity.
Our Choice:
Vergelegen Stellenbosch Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Another red wine from Vergelegen Wine Estate. This quality wine has a complex flavor profile with notes of cassis, blackberry, and spice. The tannins are well-integrated, and the finish is long and persistent. This is a superb cabernet sauvignon that will provide drinking pleasure over the next 10-15 years.
4. Malbec
Malbec is a deep-colored red wine that originated in South West France. The antioxidants present in red wine can help to promote healthy cells and may even help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Benefits of red wine from Malbec grapes also include anti-inflammatory properties, lowering the risk of chronic illnesses. For these reasons, Malbec is considered to be a healthy choice for those who enjoy red wine.
Our Choice:
Clos siguier Vieilles Vignes “Les Camilles” 2017
The “Clos siguier Vieilles Vignes” is a stunning organic wine that comes from the south of France. The nose is full of black fruit aromas with some spice. The palate is very well balanced with ripe black fruit flavors, nicely integrated tannins, and good acidity. The finish is long and lingering with more black fruit flavors. This is a great healthy wine to drink now or to age for a few years.
5. Rosé
Rosé wine is made from red grapes, but the skins are removed much sooner than for red wine, giving it its characteristic pale pink color. Rosé wines are often lower in alcohol than other wines. They also tend to be lower in calories and sugar. In addition, rosé wines are a good source of polyphenols, which are compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as antioxidants that promote cardiovascular and immune health. A refreshing and healthy choice!
Our Choice:
The AIX Provence Rosé 2020 is a delicious and refreshing wine that is perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day. This wine has a beautiful pink color, and it offers aromas of strawberry and citrus. On the palate, the AIX Provence Rosé 2020 is light and flavorful, with notes of cherry and melon. The finish is crisp and clean, making this an extremely versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. The AIX Provence Rosé 2020 is healthy red wine that is sure to please.
6. Nebbiolo
Nebbiolo is a red wine that has been shown to have a number of health benefits. One of the most notable is its high melatonin content. Melatonin is a hormone that helps to regulate sleep, and research has shown that it can be helpful in treating insomnia. Nebbiolo also contains high levels of procyanidin which can help to prevent cholesterol from building up in the arteries.
Our Choice:
Carlo Giacosa Luca Barbaresco Riserva 2016
The Carlo Giacosa Luca Barbaresco Riserva 2016 is a stunning example of the traditional Nebbiolo grape. Hailing from Piedmont, Italy, this winery has a prestigious place in Italy's finest wines. The wine is well-structured and complex, with flavors of red fruit, spice, and tobacco, pairing well with red meat and hearty pasta dishes. Aged for 36 months in oak barrels, this bottle has a deep ruby color and rich flavor profile. The Carlo Giacosa Luca Barbaresco Riserva 2016 is a beautifully crafted wine that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
Honourable Mentions
Château Grand Village Bordeaux Supérieur 2015
A red wine made from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc grapes. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, giving it a complex flavor with notes of blackberry, cherry, and cassis. The tannins are well-integrated, making the wine smooth and easy to drink. The Château Grand Village Bordeaux Supérieur 2015 is a great example of a Bordeaux wine that is approachable and enjoyable.
Final Notes
Drink red wine to improve your health but remember to watch your red wine consumption as the key to a healthy heart and body is balance. We hope you enjoyed these healthy red wine recommendations. Let us know what your favourite red wine is below.
