India makes some seriously good red wines. From bold, spicy Shiraz to elegant blends and juicy, easy-drinking reds, there is plenty to explore beyond the familiar favourites.
But with more Indian wine labels competing for attention, choosing the right bottle can get confusing. Should you stick to a trusted classic or try something new?
To make that decision easier, we've selected some of the best Indian red wines in 2026, based on their scores at India Wine & Spirit Ratings by Sonal C Holland (IWS Ratings). Each wine has been independently assessed by India's first and only Master of Wine on the globally recognised 100-point scale.
From light, zesty and fruity to bold, nuanced and memorable, there’s a red wine recommendation for every palate in this list. All you have to do is choose what works for you the best.
What Makes a Good Indian Red Wine?
A good red wine is about more than intense fruit flavours or a hefty price tag. The real magic lies in balance.
Look for fruit flavours that feel fresh rather than overly ripe, tannins (the drying sensation you feel on your gums) that complement the wine, and enough acidity to keep every sip lively.
Then there's the finish. In a good-quality wine, the flavours linger pleasantly after you've swallowed, rather than disappearing immediately.
Most importantly, the fruit, acidity, tannins and alcohol should work together. No single element should overpower the others.
Bold Indian Red Wines Worth Trying
Love a red with richness, structure and plenty of personality? These wines deserve your attention.
Grover Chene Grande Réserve Rouge 2023 (93 points) is ripe, structured and generous, making it a wonderful choice for a special dinner. It also received the Exceptional Value seal, recognising quality that exceeds expectations at its price point.
Fratelli J'NOON Red 2024 (92 points) brings a savoury, structured and stylish character to the table. Meanwhile, Fratelli Sette 2024 (90 points) offers complexity, elegance and a firm structure.
Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts should explore Vallonne Anokhee Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (90 points). Expressive, full-bodied and generous, it's one to consider when you're craving a richer red.
The Best Indian Shiraz to Explore
Shiraz, also called Syrah, has found a comfortable home in India's vineyards. Known for its dark fruit flavours, spice and sometimes peppery character, it's a favourite among lovers of bold reds.
Sula Dindori Reserve Shiraz 2024 (91 points) is smoky, rich and bold. It also carries the Best Value Buy seal, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate quality and value.
For something with a plush, layered character, try Big Banyan Limited Selection Shiraz 2022 (90 points). Its brooding personality makes it an interesting alternative.
And if you enjoy blends, Grover La Réserve Syrah Grenache 2025 (90 points) combines jammy fruit with complexity and firmness.
Smooth, Fruit-Forward Indian Reds
Not every red wine needs to be intense or tannic. Sometimes, you simply want a deliciously fruity glass that's easy to enjoy.
Grover Vijay Amritraj Rougé 2025 (92 points) is ripe, supple and polished. With its approachable texture and Best Value Buy seal, it's an excellent option for sharing with friends.
Another interesting pick is Rasa Zinfandel 2025 (91 points). Jammy, smooth and generous, it delivers the kind of fruit-forward character that makes a red wine immediately inviting. It too has earned a Best Value Buy seal.
Lighter Indian Reds for Warmer Days
Who says red wine is only for winter?
Lighter reds can be wonderfully refreshing, especially when served slightly cool.
The Source Pinot Noir 2025 (88 points) is fruity, light and contemporary, ideal when you want something less intense.
Equally inviting is The Source Grenache Red 2025 (87 points). Juicy, smooth and cheerful, it also carries a Best Value Buy seal. Both wines fall within the IWS Recommended classification.
How to Pair Indian Food with Red Wines
Indian food is full of spices, rich gravies and smoky flavours, which can make red wine pairing a little tricky. But get the balance right, and the two can work beautifully together.
Here are a few simple rules to remember:
- Match richness with structure: Full-bodied reds with firm tannins work well with rich meat dishes such as rogan josh and slow-cooked lamb. The rich, greasy flavours of such dishes help soften the tannins, making them feel smoother on the palate.
- Go fruity with aromatic spices: Soft, fruit-forward reds pair well with mildly spiced biryanis, pulao and tomato-based curries. The ripe fruit flavours complement the spices without overpowering them.
- Pair smoky with smoky: Shiraz and other peppery, robust reds are natural partners for tandoori chicken, seekh kebabs and grilled paneer, especially when the dishes are more smoky than spicy.
- Keep it light with lighter dishes: Pinot Noir, Grenache and other lighter-bodied reds can work beautifully with mushroom preparations, lightly spiced vegetables and milder paneer dishes.
- Watch the chilli heat: Very spicy food can make high-alcohol, tannic reds taste hotter and more astringent. Choose softer, fruitier reds with lower tannins, and avoid heavily oaked styles.
One golden rule: When it comes to Indian cuisine, don’t just focus on the protein or the central element of the dish. Consider flavours in the gravy and the spices used while cooking too.
Find Your Next Favourite Indian Red
The best Indian red wine isn't necessarily the most expensive bottle. It's the one that delivers quality in a style you genuinely enjoy.
And that's where an expert rating helps. Whether you're shopping for a dinner party, exploring a new grape or simply upgrading your weekend wine, IWS Ratings gives you a trusted starting point.
Ready to discover more? Explore the IWS Ratings website for expert-rated Indian wines and find your next favourite bottle.