Red wine in the summer? Absolutely. Whether you’re chilling a bottle for the picnic cooler or pairing a bold red with a grilled dish, California’s diverse red wines prove that great flavor knows no season. From Cinsault to Zinfandel, there’s a red for every summer mood.
When the weather heats up, most people reach for chilled whites or crisp rosés — and hey, we love those too! But in California, red wine is always in season. With more than 60 red varieties grown across the state, there’s a red wine for every kind of summer vibe, from backyard barbecues to breezy park picnics.
The key to picking the perfect red for warmer days? Look for styles that are light- to medium-bodied, fruit-forward and lower in tannins. Many of these reds are also amazing when served slightly chilled (yes, really!).
Here are five California reds to try this summer — plus recipe pairings to bring out the best in every bottle.
Light, bright and picnic-ready
Once mistaken for Gamay (the grape behind France’s Beaujolais), Valdiguié is a California gem. It’s light-bodied with juicy red cherry and berry notes, soft tannins and zippy acidity — basically made for summer sipping.
How to enjoy it: Chill slightly before serving and pair with charcuterie or your favorite wood-fired pizza.
Try it with: Homemade Pizza with Figs, Prosciutto, Arugula and Fresh Mozzarella
Silky, spicy and made for Mediterranean meals
California Grenache is all about juicy red berries, floral aromas and a soft, spicy finish. With naturally lower tannins, it’s a super food-friendly red that shines with herb-heavy dishes.
How to enjoy it: Serve at your next outdoor dinner with grilled veggies, lamb or anything with olive oil and fresh herbs.
Try it with: Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Salad with Parsley Parmesan Vinaigrette
Floral, fresh and a little earthy
This lesser-known red is gaining fans fast — and for good reason. Cinsault is typically low in alcohol, high in acidity and full of bright fruit with just a hint of earthiness. It’s also fantastic slightly chilled (about 15–20 minutes in the fridge will do the trick).
How to enjoy it: Serve with grilled seafood or chicken, especially dishes with a little sweet and spice.
Try it with: Grilled Five-Spice Chicken with Cucumber Peanut Salad
Elegant and endlessly versatile
Pinot Noir might just be California’s most flexible red. From light and floral to richer, more complex styles, there’s a Pinot for every palate. For summer, go with lighter styles from cooler coastal regions like Sonoma Coast, Monterey County, Carneros or Anderson Valley.
How to enjoy it: Pair with pork, mushrooms, or grilled salmon — perfect for a chill summer dinner party.
Try it with: Pork Tacos with Garlic Grilled Tortillas and Avocado Cream
Bold, fruity and born for barbecue
There’s a reason Zin is a California classic — it’s rich, spicy and bursting with berry flavor. It also plays perfectly with grilled meats, thanks to its bold flavors and just-right tannins. Whether you’re throwing burgers on the grill or slow-smoking ribs, Zinfandel is your go-to.
How to enjoy it: Serve with grilled steaks, smoky brisket or anything off the barbecue.
Try it with: Grilled Steaks with Roasted Tomato-Garlic Butter
Ready to sip your way through summer? Find even more California wine inspiration, recipes and tips at discovercaliforniawines.com.
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