4 Best Red Wines to Sip This Fall, According to a Wine Expert Chris Lehoux, October 23, 2026 As the weather cools, many wine drinkers trade crisp whites and light rosés for richer reds. Wine consultant Leslie Sbrocco recommends looking for medium- to full-bodied wines with dark fruit and earthy aromas. They pair well with fall meals like stews, saucy pasta, lentils, beans, and grilled mushrooms—and are just as enjoyable on their own. Sbrocco will discuss bold reds at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston. In the meantime, these four wine styles are good places to start. Each covers a range of bottles and prices, so ask your local wine shop for recommendations. Argentinian Malbec Malbec originated in France, but Argentina is now its leading producer. The grape is grown especially around Mendoza, near the Andes. Its wines are typically full-bodied, with dark-fruit flavors such as blackberry, plum, and cherry. Sbrocco says the grapes benefit from sunny days and cool nights, which help preserve freshness. The wines often have a deep purple color and a balance of ripe fruit and bright acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon is grown around the world and forms the foundation of many acclaimed wines. In Bordeaux, it contributes structure and complexity, often alongside Merlot, which adds a softer texture. Cabernet Franc is another common blending partner, bringing elegance and mineral notes. Napa Valley Cabernets, shaped by warm days and cooler nights, are known for concentrated fruit, firm tannins, and a velvety feel. If you’ve tried Cabernet from only one region, exploring bottles from other places may change your impression of the grape. Grenache Grenache thrives in warm, dry regions including southern France, Spain—where it’s known as Garnacha—and Australia. Compared with Cabernet Sauvignon, it tends to be softer, with less tannin and acidity, while still offering body and complexity. Sbrocco describes Grenache as earthy and spicy. Its approachable structure makes it a versatile match for roasted meats, root vegetables, and other autumn dishes, and a good option for drinkers who prefer a less tannic red. Old-vine Zinfandel California’s old-vine Zinfandel comes from regions including Sonoma, Paso Robles, and the Sierra Foothills. Some vines are more than a century old, producing rich, full-bodied wines with ripe fruit, earth, and spice. Sbrocco calls it “the black leather pants of the wine world”: showy, spicy, and bold. Its warming character and jammy fruit make it especially appealing on a cold autumn evening. About the Author: Chris Lehoux Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored! Wine