DOES DECENT ENGLISH RED WINE EXIST? HERE ARE THE BEST ENGLISH RED WINES.
At a party recently, a friend and I found ourselves debating the English wine scene. His argument? English wines are far too expensive. On that point, I couldn’t complete disagree (although there are some exceptions!) But when he declared there are “absolutely no decent English red wines,” I had to step in and politely suggest otherwise.
In this blog post, you’ll find out why I think that good English red wines do indeed exist. And, 7 of the best English red wines for you to try – at different price points of course.
Does decent English red wine really exist?
The English wine industry is undeniably dominated by sparkling wines and still whites like Bacchus and Chardonnay, which have rightly earned international recognition. However, claiming there are no good English red wines? That’s simply not true. Many English vineyards now produce at least one red wine. While they’re not all show-stoppers, some are truly exceptional.
Don’t believe me? Just ask the Decanter World Wine Awards. Last year, English reds took home 16 awards—a remarkable feat for a country historically seen as too cold for quality red wine production. Among these winners were juicy, flavourful reds crafted from cool-climate grape varieties like Pinot Noir, as well as lesser-known varieties like Regent and Rondo.
English winemakers have embraced the challenge of crafting red wines suited to the country’s climate. The result? Wines that reflect their terroir, bursting with character and freshness.
What is unique about cool-climate red wines?
Cool-climate red wines, like those from England, offer a distinct experience. They tend to be lighter-bodied, with vibrant acidity, soft tannins, and elegant layers of flavour. Think fresh, bright notes of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, often complemented by earthy or herbal undertones.
The cooler climate means grapes ripen more slowly, developing complexity while maintaining freshness and lower alcohol levels. This makes English reds ideal for pairing with food—they’re refined and versatile, perfect for everything from roasted poultry to grilled vegetables.
This is also why Pinot Noir does particularly well in England. And, they often draw comparisons with wines from Burgundy -but with a distinctive English twist.
Recent improvements in viticulture and winemaking techniques, along with warmer growing seasons, have helped English reds stand out on the global stage. Once seen as an experiment, they’re now proving that England isn’t just a one-trick (sparkling) pony.
7 of the best English red wines
Here are 7 of the best English red wines available to buy online.
1/ Lyme Bay Winery – Pinot Noir
This wine is produced by Lyme Bay Winery, based in Devon. This Pinot Noir is all about balance. Bright red fruit flavours are accompanied by subtle spice, making it a great introduction to English reds.
If you buy only one – make it this one. Their 2021 vintage won a Silver Medal winner at the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2024.
Buy direct from Lyme Bay Winery for £29.99.
2/ Simpsons – Rabbit Hole Pinot Noir
Hailing from the chalky soils of Kent, Simpsons has crafted a silky Pinot Noir brimming with cherry, strawberry, and a touch of vanilla. It’s a real crowd-pleaser.
Serve with duck or lamb dishes to get the best from this English red wine.
Buy from Grape Britannia Wine for £27.99.
3/ Marks & Spencer/ Balfour – Pinot Noir
A collaboration between retail giant Marks & Spencer and Balfour Winery, this Pinot Noir offers excellent value. Its soft fruit flavours and smooth finish make it perfect for casual sipping.
Oh and it’s not just any red wine, this is M&S wine. And, it won a Bronze Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2024.
Buy from Marks and Spencer or Ocado online for £22.
4/ Gusbourne – Mill Hill East Pinot Meunier
A rare example of an English red made from Pinot Meunier, Gusbourne’s effort is a triumph. Expect vibrant red berries, floral notes, and a surprising depth of flavour. Oh, and it won a Silver Medal in the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2024.
Buy for £35 direct from Gusbourne.
5/ Bolney Estate – Pinot Noir
Bolney’s Pinot Noir is a classic. With its delicate structure, layers of cherry and cranberry, and a whisper of oak, it’s a testament to the potential of English reds.
6/ New Hall – Barons Lane Red
Produced in Essex, New Hall’s Barons Lane Red is a blend of Rondo and Pinot Noir. The result? A medium-bodied wine with rich dark fruit, a touch of smokiness, and an earthy finish.
Buy from Grape Britannia for £17.99.
7/ Radlow Hundred -Rondo
The Rondo grape tends to pack a bit more punch that Pinot Noir. For a bold and full-bodied option, look no further than Radlow Hundred’s Rondo. With deep blackcurrant, plum, and a hint of spice, this Herefordshire red proves English wines can offer robust flavours.
Buy from Grape Britannia for £12.99.
Planning your Christmas wine?
If you’re looking for more suggestions for Christmas wine, you can find a few guides below.
Where to next?
A few of my favourite things
Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.
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