Red wine is as diverse if not more diverse than the collection of white wines that are out there. Red wine varieties span an array of red wine taste, depth, and flavors.

Amazing red wine varieties lined up in a row!

As with almost any other wine out there, there are several factors that come into play when you are choosing a wine. Some of us are well educated on wine and know exactly what the red wine taste is down to every note.

On the other hand, there are those of us who do not know nearly all there is to know about wine. We need help planning the proper choice of wine out of all the red wine varieties available today. Choosing the right wine is not only great for flavor, but for pairing with celebrations or specific dinners.

Full-bodied red wines

Sometimes we do not want a timid drink. In fact, some days call for a downright full-bodied, stiff drink. For those occasions there are red wine varieties to fit the bill like you would not believe. Often times, these types of wine are on the higher end of the alcohol scale and should be consumed responsibly.

Cantena Malbec 2015

If you are a fan of the more full-bodied red wine taste, then you have undoubtedly heard of Malbec. This particular selection of the red wine varieties is more than affordable and is quite palatable. Ranked highly among the wine community, this wine tastes of deep, dark fruits, and lavender. It is the ideal choice for pairing with a nice, juicy, grilled steak or pasta with marinara sauce.

Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel 2015

Coming to us from Sonoma County, California is the perfect Zinfandel assuming you appreciate tradition. This full-bodied red provides a hefty red wine taste perfect for fans of a good, tart, classic Zinfandel. With intense flavors comparable to licorice, sweet spices, and blackberry layered perfectly, there is an exquisite result. If I were to choose a Zinfandel with a red wine taste like this, I’d pair it with your choice of red meats.

Try these amazing Red Wine Cocktails for Summer!

It is deep in color and features a fragrant bouquet of lively scents. This Beaujolais has a wonderful structure and depth with a light acidity and flavors of fruity jams.

Jaboulet Crozes Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert 2015

First off, this selection of the red wine varieties has been referred to as the best vintage to date. This satisfying, textured Crozes has many satisfying flavors from fresh blueberries to black currant, and even some Indian spices. It can be enjoyed at any moment or cellared for a special event for up to 20 years. Furthermore, this vintage is served perfectly alongside Asian fair, a variety of meats, stews, and more. It is perhaps the most versatile red on this list.

Lightweight red wine varieties

Perhaps you enjoy red wines, but you do not want to experience the sharpness of the aforementioned wines. Luckily, there are plenty of lighter red wines on the market that will be just delightful for your particular palate. I guarantee there is a wine on this list that will prove to be one of the best red wines anywhere.

Medici Ermete Concerto Lambrusco Reggiano 2016

This is one of the best red wines of the sparkling variety. When it comes to red wine varieties that are more light-bodied, this one hails from Emilia-Romagna, Italy and is simply beautiful. With quite intense flavors from various red fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and lovely cherries, it is highly palatable. You want to pair a Lambrusco with something like pork, Italian-style sausages, and prosciutto.

Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair Moulin-a-Vent Vieilles Vignes 2013

Provided to us from Beaujolais, Burgundy, France—this silky wine is quite the treat for the tongue. It is deep in color and features a fragrant bouquet of lively scents. This Beaujolais has a wonderful structure and depth with a light acidity and flavors of fruity jams. It has delicate tannin flavors beneath the sweetness and bitter finishing notes. Pair this Gamay with just about anything—particularly fish!

Flowers Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir 2014

Directly from the Sonoma Coast in California, this smooth pinot noir will light up your senses. It graces the tongue with an intense garnet core. For the price, this selection of the red wine varieties has an incredibly elegant red wine taste. From Bing cherries to Rhubarb, blood orange and pomegranate, there are plenty of unbelievable flavors found when you sip from this wine. Pair a pinot noir such as this with anything from pork to duck breast, or salmon. Herbs and citrus pair perfectly with red wine varieties like this.

If you find yourself on the hunt for some of the best red wines, this article has you covered. Whether you like full-bodied, rich reds that boast bold flavors and strong tannins, or something softer—there is a red for everyone. This list contains some of the best red wines that are tasty, beautiful, and actually affordable. For the best red wine varieties—any of these will do just fine.