Relegating red wine to winter really does mean missing out on some of the most enjoyable warm-weather drinks. Far be it from us to pigeonhole any wine; at Edenvale we’re big believers in enjoying whichever varietal takes your fancy whenever you feel like it with whoever you want.
So as the warm weather lingers, we’re happily letting go of old stereotypes and embracing just how refreshing non-alcoholic red wines can be in summer. In this guide, we’ll explore why red varietals shine in the warmer months, which alcohol-removed reds you’ll find in the Edenvale range, and how to store and serve them for maximum enjoyment.
Find the perfect light red wine for summer at Edenvale - shop online here for delivery Australia-wide. Shop Alcohol-Free Red Wine
Why Low-Alcohol Red Wine Works for an Australian Summer
The scorching sun is setting, the barbie’s getting fired up - why does it make sense to open a bottle of alcohol-free red wine as opposed to white? The fact that alcohol has been removed is a big reason. Without the ‘weight’ of alcohol, the body of the wine just feels like it sits a little softer. But that’s not all…
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Several non-alcoholic red wines shine when lightly chilled
A gentle chill can have a remarkable effect on red wines, softening the tannins and encouraging the fruit to take centre stage. Berry, cherry and plum notes can become particularly vibrant. More on chilling later… -
Summer food perfectly matches red wine
BBQ’d meats, grilled vegetables, tomato-based dishes, burgers and charcuterie platters pair deliciously and very naturally with red wine. These dishes can all be extra big in flavour, and reds let those tasting notes rise to the occasion. -
Some of the best red varietals come from warm-weather climates
There’s a reason big, bold, juicy reds thrive in hot weather regions. Think Shiraz from South Australia, Cabernet Sauvignon from Western Australia, Tempranillo from Spain, and Mataro from Southern France, just to name a few. Full-bodied and fruit-forward, they carry fabulously juicy berry notes that feel right at home on a warm day.
Keen to know more? Learn everything about non-alcoholic red wine
How to Serve Alcohol-Free Summer Red Wine
The success of serving red wine for summer lies in keeping things light and fresh. Here are our top tips:
1. Chill it more than you think
A gentle chill is the difference between a red that feels heavy and one that feels perfect on a warm day. Aim for around 12–14°C. Pop the bottle in the fridge for 30 to 45 minutes before serving, or keep it on ice with a tea towel wrapped around it so it cools gradually.
2. Be careful not to overchill
It can be a fine line. When a red wine becomes too chilled, the flavours go flat. If you’ve popped a bottle in the fridge and then become distracted (we’ve all been there!), take it out, pour it into room-temperature glasses and leave it to sit for a few minutes. It will bounce back in no time!
3. Choose the right glassware
A standard red wine glass still works beautifully and gives the aromatics space to open up even when the wine is cooler. If it’s extra toasty outside, a slightly smaller bowl helps the wine stay chilled for longer. Great quality wine glasses really do make a great drop even more special.
4. Keep the bottle cool between pours
We’re conditioned to do this with white wine, but red can sometimes be overlooked. Wine can warm up fast in the summer, so slip the bottle back in the fridge or esky in between pours.
What is the Best Non-Alcoholic Red Wine for Summer in Australia?
Edenvale crafts some of the best summer red wines available. From vibrant berry notes to soft, rounded tannins, each varietal is designed to be enjoyed your way: slightly chilled, shared at a barbecue or poured at a long, lazy lunch. If you’re looking for an alcohol-free red wine that truly works in summer, Edenvale has you covered. Here are some of our favourites:
The Best Summer Red Wine Without Alcohol
Although there is plenty of in-house competition, if we were forced to choose a still non-alcoholic red wine, we’d suggest the award-winning Edenvale Pinot Noir. This is an elegant red, full of ripe fruit and layered with subtle earthiness and savoury complexity. On the palate, sweet cherry and mulberry notes come through clearly, supported by fine, interwoven tannins that create both delicacy and intensity. The wine finishes clean and rounded, with a juicy lift that ties everything together.
Good Light Red Wine For Summer
We’re heading to Spain for some Mediterranean warmth with this recommendation. Our award-winning Edenvale Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon carries all the classic hallmarks of this much-loved Spanish varietal, and when served chilled its notes of bramble, fig, blackberry and gentle spice become even more expressive. The cooler temperature also lifts the structure, making every sip feel vibrant and refreshing.
Chilled Red Summer Sparkling Wine
Edenvale’s award-winning Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Shiraz really shines in summer. It brings together all the things people love about the season, including freshness, flavour and a bit of celebration, without the weight of alcohol. Lifted notes of blackberry and ripe cherry sit alongside hints of plum, soft spice and chocolate.
Cheeky Rose
It may be bending the rules to mention a rosé, since it’s not technically a red, but we can’t help ourselves. Our Non-alcoholic Rosé is young, lively and made for warm weather. With bright berry flavours and a fragrant mix of roses, currants and fresh fruit, it really does feel like sipping summer.
Want to try more than red? Discover the best non-alcoholic wines of 2025.
Shop the Best Summer Red Wines at Edenvale
If all this talk of luscious, refreshing, fruity reds and long, warm days has inspired you, take a moment to explore our collection. You’ll find vibrant, beautifully crafted alcohol-removed varietals made for easy summer drinking, whether you’re planning a long lunch, a picnic or simply unwinding at home.
Shop Alcohol-Free Red WineBest Summer Red Wine FAQs
What is alcohol-free summer red wine?
Alcohol-free summer red wine is simply a non-alcoholic wine that can be enjoyed during warm months. It is not a wine deliberately crafted for summer, but is often a fruit-forward, lighter varietal that lends itself beautifully to long sunny days.
Can you drink red wine in summer?
Yes. Many red varietals taste wonderful when lightly chilled, especially those with bright fruit characters and softer tannins. Alcohol-removed reds often shine even more in warmer weather because of their lighter, fresher style.
How cold should you serve red wine in summer?
A short 20–30 minutes in the fridge is usually enough. You’re aiming for a gentle chill rather than full refrigerator temperature, which helps lift the aromatics and soften the palate.
What is a non-alcoholic light red wine for summer in Australia?
Many red wines make for great summer drinking when they’re served chilled. In fact, wine-loving warm-climate cultures like Spain and Portugal have been enjoying their reds this way for generations. When you look at alcohol-removed options, the lighter red varietals, especially Pinot Noir, which is naturally low in tannins and wonderfully fruit-driven, tend to shine in the heat. And although not technically red, rosé often finds its place on the table, thanks to its bright, refreshing style.
Why choose an alcohol-removed red wine in summer?
Alcohol-removed red wines offer full flavour with a lighter feel, making them ideal for long lunches, picnics or outdoor gatherings where you want to stay refreshed.
How should I store red wine during summer?
Keep bottles in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. For serving, a brief fridge chill will bring out the best in most summer-friendly reds.
What foods pair well with chilled red wine?
Summer barbecues, grilled vegetables, charcuterie, lighter meats, antipasto and berry-forward desserts all complement a chilled red beautifully.
