The best wines to enjoy on a cold winter’s day

Date Published: June 28, 2019, Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by I Like Wine

When the temperature drops, many wine drinkers start reaching for styles with a little more depth, warmth, and flavour. A good winter wine should feel satisfying in the glass and suit the slower meals and quieter nights that come with the season.

From rich reds to fuller white wines, the best wine for a cold day is one that matches both your taste and the moment. Whether you’re settling in at home, sharing a meal with friends, or looking for something comforting to enjoy on a chilly evening, there are plenty of winter-friendly options to explore.

If you’re ready to find a bottle that suits the season, browse our winter wine collection and shop online with I Like Wine.

Easy-drinking wines to enjoy on colder days and cosy nights in

Colder weather often calls for wines with a little more generosity in the glass. That might be a bold red, a smooth blend, or a fuller white wine, depending on your taste and what’s on the table.

Winter is often when people choose more comforting styles. That doesn’t necessarily mean the heaviest wines, but bottles that feel satisfying and easy to settle into.

Sometimes that means something rich and warming with a slow-cooked meal, and other times it means a softer, more approachable bottle for an easy night at home.

Shiraz and bold reds for winter

Shiraz is a natural winter favourite, offering depth, richness, and warmth in every glass.

It pairs beautifully with roast meats, slow-cooked dishes, and hearty meals, making it a reliable choice for colder nights. If you enjoy fuller-bodied reds with generous flavour, Shiraz is often one of the easiest places to start.

Cabernet and structured reds for the table

Cabernet Sauvignon is a strong choice for winter meals, especially with beef, lamb, and richer dishes.

If you enjoy reds with a little more structure and presence, this style is well suited to the table. It can feel more classic and food-driven than softer reds, which makes it a great option for shared meals and longer lunches.

GSM and red blends for easy drinking

Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre (GSM) and other red blends offer a smoother, more approachable style.

These wines are easy to enjoy, versatile with food, and ideal for relaxed nights in. If you want something with flavour and warmth without going too heavy, a good red blend can be a very easy winter pick.

Chardonnay and fuller white wines

Chardonnay is one of the best white wine choices for winter.

With more body and texture, it pairs well with creamy dishes, roast chicken, and comforting meals without feeling too light. Fuller white wines can be especially appealing if you want something warming and food-friendly, but are not in the mood for red.

Pinot Grigio and Riesling for balance

For something a little lighter, Pinot Grigio and Riesling still have a place in winter, especially when paired with food.

They offer freshness and balance, making them a good option if you do not want something too heavy. These styles can work particularly well with lighter comfort meals, spiced dishes, or occasions where you want a wine that feels fresh but still suits the season.

Winter food and wine pairing ideas

Find the perfect wine combination for hearty, warm dinners at home.

Roast meats and slow-cooked dishes

Roast lamb, beef, and slow-cooked meals pair especially well with fuller-bodied reds like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines have the depth and structure to handle rich flavours and hearty cooking.

Pasta, casseroles, and comfort meals

For pasta, pies, and casseroles, medium-bodied reds and blends are often a great fit. They bring enough flavour to the table without overwhelming the dish.

Creamy dishes and roast chicken

Fuller white wines, especially Chardonnay, work beautifully with creamy sauces, roast chicken, and lighter winter meals. Their texture helps tie the food and wine together.

Spicy or lighter dishes

If your meal has a little spice or feels lighter overall, Pinot Grigio or Riesling can be a great choice. Their freshness and balance help lift the flavours without competing with them.

 

Shop winter wines online

From cosy nights in to long lunches and hearty dinners, the right bottle can make colder days feel even more enjoyable. From rich reds and smooth blends to fuller whites, find wines suited to the season. If you’re not sure where to start, browse our winter wine collection to find a bottle that feels just right for winter.