Now that we are well into winter, it is time to find ways to stay cozy and warm until the spring thaw. While gloves, hats, and scarves can keep the cold out reasonably well, they cannot lift our spirits after a long commute in a snowstorm. That is where red wine comes into play. Even though it cannot literally warm us up, everyone always feels warmer and cozier after a glass or two. Red wine can be enjoyed during any time of year, but there are a few reasons its consumption is especially fitting in the winter.

Comforting

Few things compare to the feeling of taking the first sip from a glass of red. It tastes rich, inviting, and goes down smoothly. Curling up on the couch after a long day at work followed by a snowy commute is only made that much more therapeutic with red wine. It is comforting knowing you have a bottle of red waiting for you once you get home.

Hearty

When the temperature drops outside, the recipes people prefer tend to get richer. Instead of light salads, people opt for bowls of stew and plates of hearty pasta. A sweeter and spicier wine is needed to complement these types of dishes. Winter reds will have rich and dark tones of flavour and taste distinct. They can even be added to meats and sauces to enhance their flavouring.

Mulled Wine

A toasty mug of mulled wine has warmed the bodies of Nordic and Germanic people for centuries. It is enhanced with spices like ginger and cinnamon for a robust flavour profile. Mulled red wine can only truly be enjoyed during the dead of winter. It is a great drink warm up with that does not have the caffeine of coffee or tea. Simply warm up your favourite Cabernet Franc, Merlot, or Zinfandel and add ginger, cinnamon, and honey. It is the perfect way to warm your hands up again after shovelling your driveway or walkway.

Seasonal Wine

Some wines taste better in the winter than the summer and vice versa. Save your sangrias, rosés, and whites for the spring and summer when you want to cool down. A rich, dark Pinot Noir goes down better while sitting under a blanket in front of a fire or heater. Reds come in a variety of price ranges, which means you are sure to find one that suits your budget.

If you are in search of the perfect red wine to complement a meal, make mulled wine with, or to get cozy, stop by Seven Degrees. We have a wide selection of winter reds that are sure to make the coldest days seem a bit warmer.