Six summer reds to sip in the sunshine

These characterful, fruity gems can be enjoyed chilled, says Sam Wylie-Harris

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IT ONLY takes a trio of heatwaves to make you realise how much better everything tastes, with a refreshing jolt to stir the senses, making you feel comfortably cool... including ruby red wines.

Surprisingly delicious, when you pour a medium-bodied red; or fun, fruity new world label straight from the fridge - somewhere between 12 to 18 degrees - those ripe berry flavours and aromas become fresher, more focused, and totally in tune with blue skies and sunshine.

We're talking easy drinking styles... think fragrant fruit bombs, polished pinot noirs and smooth, silky merlots, with fine to medium tannins - the wines become brighter, better even, with a moreish drinkability, served slightly chilled.

Check out these perfect picks for balmy weather and summertime menus...

Irresistible Pais 2023, Chile, £8.65, Coop, in-store