Autumn Reds - This Month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club

Welcome to this month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club, the UK's most exciting wine subscription for the curious drinker. Each month, we will introduce you to a new wine region as part of our promise to deliver no two wines the same for a whole year. Not a member yet? Subscribe here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, were bracing ourselves for the cool days and chilly evenings by putting together a lovely mix of Autumn reds.

As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that first autumn chill, there’s nothing quite like a glass of red to warm the spirit. This month’s case brings together a collection of bold, characterful wines from unexpected corners of the world — perfect companions for hearty dishes, fireside conversations, or simply unwinding after a crisp autumn day.

From the velvety depths of India to the spice-kissed elegance of Lebanon, this selection is a journey through distinctive winemaking traditions. You’ll also find the rich flavours of North Macedonia, the plush smoothness of Ukraine, and the sun-soaked intensity of Croatia.

Each bottle tells a story of place, passion, and craft — together, they offer a vibrant taste of autumn in all its richness.

So pull on a sweater, pour something deep and red, and settle into the season with us.

 

And don’t forget, our team are always happy to answer any questions you have on these wines (and about wine in general!), but also we’ve provided plenty of information below, so pull the cork and let’s explore!

 

 

 

 

Sula Dindori Reserve — Nashik, India

 

From the sun-baked hills of Maharashtra, Sula’s Dindori Reserve shows just how far Indian wine has come — and why it deserves a place on your table. Made from hand-picked Shiraz grapes grown in the red clay soils of Dindori, this is a plush, polished red with exotic flair.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, and sweet spice jump from the glass, joined by hints of vanilla and mocha from oak ageing. The palate is velvety and generous, with layers of dark fruit, soft tannins, and a warming, peppery finish that lingers long after the last sip.
Bold yet beautifully balanced, this is a wine that pairs as easily with slow-cooked curries as it does with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Rich, inviting, and distinctly Indian — it’s a wine worth discovering.

 

 

Ksara Le Prieuré — Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

From Lebanon’s ancient Bekaa Valley — one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world — comes this expressive red blend that speaks of history, tradition, and sun-drenched vineyards. Ksara, founded by Jesuit monks in 1857, remains a pioneer of Lebanese wine, and Le Prieuré is one of its most beloved bottlings.
On the nose, it’s fragrant and generous, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant layered with eastern spice, dried herbs, and a touch of earth. The palate is fresh and supple, full of juicy red fruit, gentle tannins, and a savoury, almost Mediterranean finish.
Food-friendly and endlessly drinkable, it’s the kind of red you’ll reach for again and again — perfect with mezze, roasted lamb, or simply shared with friends.

 

Imako Primitivo — Tikveš, North Macedonia

 

Italy may have made Primitivo famous, but in North Macedonia’s warm Tikveš region, this grape thrives just as brilliantly — delivering a wine full of sun, spice, and generosity. Imako’s Primitivo captures the grape’s dark, juicy personality while adding a distinctly Balkan edge.
Expect ripe black cherry, plum, and fig aromas, lifted by notes of baking spice and a subtle smoky touch. The palate is round and concentrated, with velvety tannins and a smooth, mouth-filling richness balanced by a flicker of freshness.
It’s the kind of bold, comforting red that shines with pizza, pasta, or a hearty autumn stew — warm, approachable, and full of character.

 

 

 

Shabo Merlot — Odessa, Ukraine

 

Ukraine’s Black Sea coast has long been home to vineyards, and Shabo — one of the country’s leading wineries — is showing the world just how much potential this region has. Their Merlot is a polished, approachable red with a distinctly Ukrainian stamp.
Aromas of ripe red plum, cassis, and raspberry mingle with gentle touches of cedar and cocoa. On the palate, it’s soft and silky, with bright fruit, fine tannins, and a clean, elegant finish that makes it surprisingly versatile at the table.
Unfussy yet full of charm, this is a wine equally at home with roasted chicken, charcuterie, or simply a quiet evening glass. Smooth, balanced, and quietly impressive.

 

 

  

Ezimit Vranec — North Macedonia

Vranec — meaning “black stallion” in Macedonian — is the signature grape of the Balkans, and Ezimit’s version shows exactly why it’s so loved in the region. Deep, dark, and bursting with personality, this is a red that makes an impression.
The nose is full of blackberries, blueberries, and dark cherries, with hints of violet, spice, and a touch of wild earthiness. The palate is bold and structured, with juicy fruit at its core, balanced by lively acidity and firm, food-friendly tannins.
This is a wine that begs for hearty pairings — think grilled meats, rich stews, or aged cheeses. Rustic yet refined, it’s a brilliant introduction to one of Eastern Europe’s most characterful grapes

 

Merga Victa Plavac — Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

From the sun-soaked vineyards of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast comes Plavac Mali, the country’s flagship red grape and a close relative of Zinfandel. Merga Victa crafts a modern, expressive take on this classic variety, brimming with Adriatic charm.
On the nose, expect ripe dark berries, dried figs, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs, all wrapped in a subtle hint of spice. The palate is robust yet approachable, with juicy fruit, supple tannins, and a savoury, sea-breeze freshness that reflects its coastal origin.
Rich, warming, and deeply evocative of its homeland, this is the perfect bottle for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or simply savouring on a crisp autumn night.