Light Red Wines

Light red wines focus on freshness, bright fruit and easy drinkability, with softer tannins and lighter body than fuller red styles. From Pinot Noir and Gamay to Frappato and Cabernet Franc, these are reds chosen for balance, energy and versatility at the table.

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Light red wine offers a fresher, softer and more approachable style of red wine with lower tannins, vibrant fruit character and excellent drinkability. Typically lighter in body than fuller styles such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, these wines work especially well for everyday drinking, food pairing and serving slightly chilled.

Our collection focuses on elegant, juicy and expressive wines from classic lighter-bodied grape varieties including Pinot Noir, Gamay, Frappato, Cinsault and Cabernet Franc. Alongside traditional regional styles, the range also includes low-intervention and natural wines where freshness, purity and bright acidity remain central to the style.

Rather than heavy extraction or prominent oak influence, light red wines tend to emphasise red berry fruit, floral aromatics and silky texture. Expect flavours of cherry, raspberry, cranberry, redcurrant and subtle spice supported by lively acidity and soft tannins that keep the wines refreshing and highly versatile.

The category spans everything from Beaujolais and Alpine reds to Mediterranean varieties and cooler-climate Pinot Noir, with many wines particularly suited to relaxed drinking and food-focused occasions. Many of these bottles also work exceptionally well served lightly chilled, helping highlight freshness and aromatic lift without losing structure.

Whether you're looking for an easy-drinking red, a lighter wine for warmer weather or a food-friendly bottle with energy and balance, light red wine offers some of the most approachable and vibrant styles in modern wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a light red wine?

A light red wine is a style of red wine that has a lighter body, softer tannins and a more delicate structure compared to medium or full-bodied reds.

What does “light body” mean in red wine?

“Light body” refers to how the wine feels in your mouth. Light red wines feel more delicate, less dense and more refreshing, similar in weight to white wine but with red fruit character.

What do light red wines taste like?

Light red wines typically show fresh red fruit flavours such as cherry, raspberry and strawberry, often with floral, herbal or slightly earthy notes.

Which grapes are used for light red wines?

Common grapes include Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cinsault, Frappato and lighter expressions of Sangiovese or Grenache.

How strong are light red wines?

Most light red wines are typically around 11%–13% ABV, making them lower in alcohol than many medium or full-bodied reds.

Are light red wines dry or sweet?

Most light red wines are dry, although their bright fruitiness can sometimes make them feel softer or slightly sweeter on the palate.

Should light red wine be served chilled?

Yes, light red wines are often best served slightly chilled to enhance freshness and highlight their bright fruit character.

What food pairs well with light red wines?

They pair well with charcuterie, roast chicken, grilled fish, pizza, salads and lighter pasta dishes due to their freshness and low tannin structure.

How is light red wine different from full-bodied red wine?

Light reds have lower tannins, lighter colour, lower alcohol and more delicate fruit flavours, while full-bodied reds are richer, more tannic and more intense in flavour and structure.