6 suave reds for Sunday roasts
From Chile and France to South Africa, these full-bodied reds at £15 and under are worth seeking out, says Sam Wylie-Harris.
As we swing into snug season and thoughts turn to home-cooked, comforting food, there’s nothing like a Sunday roast for that feel-good factor before the start of the working week.
Whether it’s roast beef with Yorkshire puddings, venison, or slow-cooked leg of lamb with perfect roast potatoes, nothing beats a classic roast lifted by a delicious glass of ruby red wine.
Naturally, styles vary and all sorts of berry flavours come into play, but these rich reds signal gratification in a glass, and worth basting the tender red meat for – all at £15 and under…
1. Sainsbury’s Taste The Difference Malbec Cahors Red Wine 2022, France, £9, Sainsbury’s
The definition of a top-value red, this moreish malbec proves how Cahors – the grape’s spiritual home – overdelivers with its full-bodied wines; complex with boldly spiced black fruits framed by hints of vanilla, earthy note and smooth finish, it’s one for roasted dishes with crispy roast potatoes and savoury gravy.
2. Waitrose No 1 Corbières 2023, France, £12.75, Waitrose
A deep, rich red, Corbières hails from the Languedoc and is another top drop displaying its regional character. A blend of local varieties, it’s aromatic with black fruits, dried herbs and spices at the fore; classically styled with a generous core of dense, dark fruit, cherry, and black peppery spice, with a lingering finish. Think roasted venison with rosemary and garlic roast potatoes.
3. Co-op Irresistible Carménère 2024, Chile, £9.95, Co-op, in-store
Brimming with juicy plum, black cherry and brambly fruit, this is a brilliant example of Chile’s signature red grape, with characteristic hints of green bell pepper and leafy, herbal notes lending complexity and interest; finishing long and plush with notes of spice. A favourite find with roast beef seasoned with herbs and cracked black pepper, topped with caramelised onion gravy.
4. Nederburg Double Barrel Reserve Red Blend 2024, South Africa, £14, Waitrose
With a glass of this impressive red, you really do step into the realms of a Bordeaux blend with its five headline grapes – merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and malbec… showing how South Africa turns its hand to these classic varietals.
Richly flavoured with a seductive bouquet of ripe berries and violets, it’s layered, structured and smooth from two-step oak-ageing; with a forest floor of black fruits, touch of cassis, everything melds seamlessly together with spices riding on the lingering finish. A leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic come to mind.
5. M&S Freedom Ridge Cabernet Merlot 2023, South Africa, £12, Ocado
Another deftly blended red, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and malbec are in the mix and this full-bodied, savoury red more than delivers. Harmonious with good structure, expressive blackberry fruit, savoury notes, herbs and soft spice are at its heart, tasting plush and palate-coating. Instantly enjoyable, it’s another winner with roasted lamb or beef, crispy roast potatoes and rich-pan juices.
6. Bodegas Roqueblanca Rioja Garnacha 2025, Rioja, Spain, £14.99, Virgin Wines
A crowd-pleasing red, this fruit-forward red showcases the fresh face of Rioja with its vibrant flavours, vivid juicy red berries, ripe black cherry notes, sweet spice, and fresh, rounded finish. Made from 100% Garnacha, it’s just as impressive as those of its better-known tempranillo blends. A natural bedfellow with roasted meats, seasoned veggies, olive oil and garlic. Cheers!