Wines That Love a BBQ
The Taste Union Guide to Grilling with Natural Reds
Barbecue season has landed—and if you're anything like us, you’re already debating marinades, marvelling at someone else’s outdoor pizza oven, and wondering if rosé really is the only acceptable summer wine (spoiler: it’s not).
This summer, we’re making the case for three unapologetically bold reds that love a bit of smoke, spice, and sunshine. These aren’t heavy, brooding winter wines—they’re alive, wild, and built for hot weather feasting. Introducing our BBQ Red Wine Trio: three small-batch, natural reds from the South of France, hand-picked for your next grill session.
Our BBQ Three: Meet the Wines
All three of these wines are made by real people, not in a factory. No synthetic additives. No unnecessary sulphites. Just hand-harvested grapes, native yeasts, and a commitment to soil, soul, and sustainability.
These wines don’t shout. They sing—especially when paired with flame, good music, and good people.
1. Born to Be Wine — Mouton Noir
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Carignan
Pairs with: Burgers, BBQ ribs, big opinions
Let’s start with the black sheep. This wine is loud. A little chaotic. And 100% fun if you’re into wild, fruit-forward reds with a punk edge. Born to Be Wine isn’t for everyone—and that’s kind of the point. It’s juicy, spicy, and full of dark berry swagger. Sip it with burgers, brisket, or sticky ribs, and let it be the guest who always gets people talking.
A total vibe shift from safe supermarket reds—and proud of it.
2. Kashmir 2017 — La Nouvelle Don(n)e
Grapes: 100% Carignan
Pairs with: Charred meat, lamb chops, anything smoky
This one’s the showstopper. Aged Carignan with depth, soul, and spice. Think blackberry, black olive, and the kind of earthy backbone that makes it the perfect companion to flame-grilled lamb or a steak that’s been kissed by smoke.
We like to call it the wine equivalent of a leather jacket: smooth, seasoned, and effortlessly cool.
3. Stone & Chardons Vol. 1 — Domaine Pion
Grapes: Carignan, Syrah
Pairs with: Wood-fired pizza, grilled halloumi, aubergine
Let’s talk chillable reds. Stone & Chardons is light enough to serve slightly cool (yes, even in a red wine glass), but it doesn’t skimp on flavour. With hints of forest fruits and a wild herbal kick, it’s an ideal match for rustic pizza straight from the outdoor oven or skewers of chargrilled vegetables and cheese.
This is your ease-into-the-evening wine. No stress, no rules, just you, a slice of something smoky, and a glass of something vibrant.
Why a Natural Red Wine Absolutely Belongs at a BBQ
Think red wine is just for cosy winter nights? Think again. The best red wines for BBQ are vibrant, juicy, and built for heat—both in the bottle and on the grill. When you choose right—like our small-batch, natural red wines made from grapes like Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache—you get bold flavour, food-friendly structure, and that magic touch that turns a BBQ into something unforgettable.
These aren’t the heavy, oaky reds that demand decanters and roast dinners. These are alive. Made by independent winemakers in the South of France, they’re fresh, full of personality, and ready to join the party. Here's why natural red wine deserves pride of place at your next summer BBQ.
🥩 Fruit + Fire = BBQ Wine Perfection
Char, caramelisation, and smoke bring out the best in red wines with fruit and spice. Whether it’s a flame-grilled burger, barbecued lamb, or sticky ribs, the right red wine adds a deeper, juicier layer to the meal. Carignan’s wild berry notes and Syrah’s gentle peppery spice are a dream pairing with smoky flavours—it's the ultimate way to elevate your outdoor feast.
❄️ Chillable Red Wine = BBQ Gamechanger
Chillable red wine for summer? Yes, please. These natural reds are best served slightly cool—pop them in the fridge for 20 minutes and let the fresh acidity shine. You’ll keep things crisp, juicy, and totally thirst-quenching, even in the heat of the day. It’s an easy upgrade that turns good wine into great BBQ wine.
🌶️ Handles Heat Like a Pro
Bold flavours need bold wines—and the best red wine for grilled meat can take on spice, tang, and smoke without getting lost. Whether you’re working with spicy marinades, hot sauces, or charred edges, these wines hold their own. Think balance, not battle. They're here to play nicely with your food, not fight for attention.
🍕 Wine for Outdoor Pizza Ovens? Oh Yes!
If you're lucky enough to have (or know someone with) an outdoor pizza oven, there's a natural red wine with your name on it: Stone & Chardons. It’s light enough to chill, bold enough to bite back, and perfect with everything from crispy pepperoni to flame-blistered veg. This is the best red wine for wood-fired pizza—no contest.
Pizza might not be your classic BBQ dish, but it’s outdoor dining at its finest. Rustic, relaxed, and full of flavour. Just like the wine.
Ready to Try It?
Each of the wines in our BBQ Red Wine Trio has been picked not just for their quality, but for their personality. They’re all:
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Made with low-intervention methods
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Grown organically or sustainably
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Packed with flavour and zero pretension
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Ideal for summer BBQs, garden parties, and long evenings outdoors
Normally £70 → now just £50 with code 'BBQWINE'
👉 Shop the BBQ Red Wine Trio Now