91 points – Wine Orbit

This is an excellent value for money pick with an RRP of $28.
It’s definitely at it’s best cold, experiment for yourself and see what you enjoy. For me, it tasted best around 8c, or 60 minutes in the fridge from room temp. But drinking it at different temperatures certainly changes the flavour profile so change the serving temp around a little for yourself.

Learn more about Risky Business Wines

Risky business brings together the vision and decades of experience of grape grower/viticulturist Rob Quenby and vintner John Waldron. They have been sourcing fruit from Western Australia (primarily Margaret River) and Victoria’s King Valley, producing small batches of fine and distinctive wines from each area.

Chilled Red Wines

Red wine is often associated with being served at room temperature, but the trend of chilling red wines is gaining momentum, particularly in warmer climates like Australia. Chilled reds are refreshing, vibrant, and offer a completely different experience, especially when it comes to blends such as Shiraz and Pinot Noir.

A Brief History of Red Wine Blends: Shiraz & Pinot Noir

Blending red wines has a long history in Australian winemaking, where innovative producers have experimented with various combinations to create unique flavour profiles. While Shiraz and Pinot Noir might seem like an unusual pairing, this blend actually has deep roots in Australian wine tradition. Since the mid-20th century, winemakers in regions like the Perth Hills and Great Southern have crafted these blends to combine the boldness of Shiraz with the elegance of Pinot Noir, producing wines that balance fruit intensity with subtle complexity.

The result is a dynamic, fruit-driven wine that pairs the powerful, spicy character of Shiraz with the delicate, red-fruit profile of Pinot Noir. This fusion has become a favourite for those looking for a red wine that’s both vibrant and easy to drink, particularly when served chilled.

Serving Temperatures and When to Chill

The typical serving temperature for red wine is around 18°C, but when it comes to chilled reds, the ideal temperature is much lower, between 8°C and 10°C. Chilling a red wine helps to enhance its freshness, emphasise the fruit flavours, and reduce any heavy, tannic feel that might come with full-bodied reds. Shiraz and Pinot Noir, in particular, benefit from being served on the cooler side, as the crispness draws out their natural fruitiness and makes them more approachable, especially in warmer weather.

Food Pairings for Chilled Red Wines

Chilled red wines, particularly a Shiraz and Pinot Noir blend, are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. The juicy red fruits from the Pinot Noir, like raspberry and cherry, complement the rich, spicy notes of Shiraz, which brings flavours of blackberry and plum. Together, they create a wine that works beautifully with a range of dishes.

Some perfect pairings include grilled meats, such as lamb or steak, which benefit from the spice of the Shiraz, as well as roasted vegetables or barbecued fare. The lighter, more elegant side of the blend also pairs wonderfully with charcuterie, soft cheeses, and even salmon.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a casual dinner, or simply relaxing in the sun, a chilled red wine, especially a Shiraz and Pinot Noir blend, brings a refreshing twist to your wine experience. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile, food-friendly red wine that’s both refreshing and full of character.