Men, just like women, can feel intimidated by making the “wrong” choice the moment a sommelier approaches their table, especially in settings where wine connoisseurs are present.
Just like all things in life, it’s best to approach wine selection with a laid-back approach and trusting your gut to guide you. There are no wrong choices if you enjoy something.
If you’re still worried, keep reading. Whether you’re new to wine or looking to expand your palate, we will break down the best wines for men based on flavor profiles that typically appeal to masculine tastes. That should be a handy reference for your next dinner.
Best Wine For Men
Generally, red wines are considered a more “masculine” choice due to their bold taste. But that doesn’t mean it’s the only choice. The best wine for men will depend on your preferences and individual tastes.
Some of the well-known wines men love include:
Merlot is the gentleman’s gateway to red wine. It’s smooth, approachable, and never overwhelming. If we talk about its taste, it feels rich and velvety with flavours of dark cherry, plum, and subtle chocolate notes.
Merlot’s uniqueness lies in its impeccable balance and food-pairing versatility. It pairs well with almost everything and never overshadows your meal. It’s sophisticated enough for important occasions, yet relaxed enough for everyday enjoyment.
If wines had personalities, Cabernet Sauvignon would be that bold and confident alpha. It’s full-bodied with intense flavours of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco. When you take a sip, expect firm tannins that give your palate a satisfying grip.
What makes Cabernet Sauvignon stand out from other wines is its ability to age gracefully while maintaining incredible structure. It pairs beautifully with red meat and actually elevates its flavours, too. Consider pairing your steak with merlot next time and see how that combination feels.
When in doubt, choose Malbec with confidence each time.
Originally from France but perfected in Argentina, Malbec brings the rugged charm of the Andes to your glass. Malbec’s signature smokiness and fruit-forward nature make it incredibly satisfying, especially when paired with grilled meats or enjoyed on its own.
Each pour is deep purple in colour with robust flavours of blackberry, plum, and spice, perfect for that masculine feeling with every sip.
Riesling can be bone-dry and incredibly sophisticated. It’s the thinking man’s white wine that pairs beautifully with spicy cuisines. Compared to other white wines, Riesling’s versatility is unmatched.
A dry German Riesling can hold its own against any complex dish, while its natural acidity makes it incredibly refreshing. It’s perfect for warm climates or spicy food adventures.
Shiraz (Australian) or Syrah (French) delivers power, spice, and complexity in one. with intense flavours of dark fruit, black pepper, smoke, and sometimes bacon or leather notes. The tannins are substantial but well-integrated.
Shiraz’s signature peppery spice and bold fruit flavours bring the heat (literally)! It’s perfect for men who appreciate intensity and aren’t afraid of wines with character.
To truly complete the wine bar experience, take a look at this style guide on what to wear to a wine bar so your outfit complements your wine choice.
Sparkling Wines & Rosé Are Not Just for Women. Here’s Why.
The moment we hear “sparkling wine” or “Rosè”, the reputation of it being “women’s drinks” often strikes our mind. Let’s be honest – who made the myth that it only belongs to women? In fact, men love both drinks as much as women do.
Sparkling wine has been enjoyed by kings, emperors, and titans of industry for centuries. Champagne was Napoleon’s drink of choice, and today’s most successful businessmen toast their victories with bubbles.
Similarly, French Provence rosés are bone-dry and mineral-driven, offering complexity that rivals any serious wine. Smart men know that choosing the right wine for the moment shows true sophistication, regardless of color.
So, if your choice is sparkling wine or Rosè, don’t hesitate to order one!
Tip: You can refer to our guide on How to Order at a Wine Bar so you can confidently place your order.
Occasion-Based Wine Selection for Men
Let’s be real. Not all wines go with every occasion, unless you really love them. Here are some of our recommendations for the best wine selection for men based on occasion:
|
Occasion |
Wine recommendation for men |
|
Date Nights |
Merlot or Pinot Noir |
|
Business dinner |
Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux blends |
|
Steak dinners |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
|
Casual evenings |
Australian Shiraz or Argentine Malbec |
|
Celebrations |
Champagne or high-quality Prosecco |
|
Summers |
Dry Riesling or crisp rosé |
Now that you’re ready to try wines, here are some more guides you’d love to check out:
Conclusion
Wine is about pleasure, connection, and celebrating life’s moments, both big and small. So the best wine for men is simply the one you enjoy drinking.
To begin your wine experience, you can start with our recommendations mentioned above, but don’t forget to explore your options that align with your preferences. Remember, the sommelier isn’t judging you when you stand there confused about which wine to order. Instead, they’re there to enhance your experience. Ask questions when curious, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of discovering what you love.
Go ahead and order with confidence!
Want The Best Wine Experience? Belle Wine Bar Awaits!
Ready to put your new wine knowledge to the test at the best wine bar in Bali? At Belle Wine Bar and Grazing Boards, our team provides an excellent selection of carefully curated wines perfect for men. Our expert sommeliers will walk you through tastings to help you discover the wine that matches your taste and personality. Visit us in Bali today!