Discover chilled red wine this summer
Assistant Copywriter
Florence Head
The chilled red wine trend
Rosé had its moment, followed by orange wine, and now chilled red wine is having its turn in the spotlight. While it may feel like a modern trend, serving certain red wines lightly chilled has long been part of wine culture in countries such as France, where lighter, fruit-forward reds are often enjoyed cool during the warmer months.
As more people look for alternatives to rosé and spritzes in summer, chilled red wine offers the best of both worlds. Cooling the right red can lift its freshness and vibrant fruit character, creating an easy-drinking style that's perfect for sunny afternoons. Whether you're already a red wine fan or simply looking to try something different, it's a trend well worth exploring.
Best red wine to chill
When it comes to finding the best chilled red wine, lighter-bodied wines with bright fruit flavours, soft tannins and refreshing acidity tend to work best.
Looking for inspiration? The M&S wines below are all excellent candidates for serving lightly chilled.
Domaine Mandeville Pinot Noir: Soft and smooth, this southern French Pinot Noir's dark cherry fruit and savoury notes become even more refreshing when poured cool.
Palataia Pinot Noir: A medium-bodied Pinot Noir with ripe cherry flavours and subtle earthiness, benefiting from a light chill that highlights its freshness.
Rosso Sicilia: Packed with ripe cherry character and a touch of spice, this Sicilian red becomes fresher and more vibrant when served slightly cooler.
Lady A Red: A smooth, lightly spiced French wine which reveals vibrant red fruit with delicate citrus notes when chilled.
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo: Unoaked and refreshingly vibrant with fresh fruit flavours and peppery finish, ideal for a gentle chill.
Araldica Barbera D'Asti: Juicy black cherry and damson flavours are balanced by naturally vivid acidity, making this a brilliant match for serving cool on warmer days.
Etna Rosso: Made from native Sicilian grapes on the slopes of Mount Etna, this elegant red combines bright cherry flavours and freshness that shine when lightly chilled.
Tierra y Hombre Pinot Noir: Light, lively and packed with juicy berry notes, this wine is made to be enjoyed chilled, bringing out its floral aromas and refreshing style.
M&S Classics New Zealand Pinot Noir: Rich in black cherry and cranberry flavours with subtle spice, chilling helps lift the wine's freshness while enhancing its vibrant fruit character.
Published 28/07/2026
