Contents
- 1. Lilac Wine – Jeff Buckley
- 2. Summer Wine – Nancy Sinatra & Lee Hazlewood
- 3. Smoke & Wine – Hank Williams III
- 4. Red Red Wine – UB40
- 5. Cherry Wine – Hozier
- 6. Melva’s Wine – Johnny Cash
- 7. Wine After Whiskey – Carrie Underwood
- 8. Yesterday’s Wine – George Jones ft. Merle Haggard
- 9. Good Friends and a Glass of Wine – LeAnn Rimes
- 10. Two More Bottles of Wine – Emmylou Harris
- 11. Elderberry Wine – Elton John
- 12. I Will Drink the Wine – Frank Sinatra
- 13. Strawberry Wine – Deana Carter
- 14. Spill the Wine – Eric Burdon & War
- 15. Jack Straw – Grateful Dead
‘Wine’ is often celebrated for its ability to enhance a meal or social occasion, but it can also inspire musicians to create some of the most memorable songs in popular culture. From romantic ballads to upbeat anthems, the topic of wine has been explored in countless ways throughout music history. However, some of the most iconic songs about wine celebrate the full-bodied flavors that make this beverage so beloved by connoisseurs around the world.
In this article, we will explore the top 15 songs about wine with lots of body. These songs showcase the rich and complex characteristics of full-bodied wines, from their bold flavors to their robust textures. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a music lover, these songs are sure to provide a new perspective on the art of winemaking and the pleasures of enjoying a glass of wine. So pour yourself a glass of your favorite full-bodied red, sit back, and enjoy these musical odes to the world’s most beloved beverage.
1. Lilac Wine – Jeff Buckley
Lilac Wine – Jeff Buckley: Originally written in 1950, this song has been covered by countless artists, but Jeff Buckley’s rendition is one of the most hauntingly beautiful. With his soaring vocals and delicate guitar work, Buckley brings a sense of longing and melancholy to this ode to the intoxicating effects of wine. The lilac flower has long been associated with love and romance, making it the perfect metaphor for the bittersweet memories that can come with a glass of wine.
2. Summer Wine – Nancy Sinatra & Lee Hazlewood
Summer Wine – Nancy Sinatra & Lee Hazlewood: This 1967 duet between Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood is a playful and sultry ode to the joys of drinking wine with someone special. With its catchy melody and whimsical lyrics, “Summer Wine” perfectly captures the carefree spirit of summer romance. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but Sinatra and Hazlewood’s original remains a beloved classic. From the opening guitar riff to the final refrain, this song is sure to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
3. Smoke & Wine – Hank Williams III
Smoke & Wine – Hank Williams III: This song, by country musician Hank Williams III, is a rollicking tribute to the pleasures of indulging in a little bit of smoke and wine. With its twangy guitar riffs and Williams’ distinctive growl, “Smoke & Wine” is a high-energy track that’s perfect for getting you in the party mood. The lyrics are irreverent and playful, with Williams boasting about his ability to hold his liquor and enjoy a good time.
4. Red Red Wine – UB40
Red Red Wine – UB40: Originally written and recorded by Neil Diamond, “Red Red Wine” was given a reggae-infused makeover by British band UB40 in 1983, and it became a massive hit. With its laid-back rhythm and smooth vocals, the song has become a staple of summer playlists and beach parties. The lyrics, which speak of drowning one’s sorrows in a glass of wine, are given new life by the band’s unique sound. From the opening chords to the final notes, “Red Red Wine” is a classic that’s sure to get you singing along.
5. Cherry Wine – Hozier
Cherry Wine – Hozier: Irish singer-songwriter Hozier’s “Cherry Wine” is a tender and introspective ballad that explores the complexities of love and addiction. The song is a metaphor for the cycle of domestic abuse and the deep emotional scars it leaves behind. Hozier’s soulful vocals are backed by sparse guitar and piano, giving the song a haunting, melancholy quality. With its evocative imagery and poignant lyrics, “Cherry Wine” is a powerful reminder of the impact of abuse and the importance of breaking the cycle.
6. Melva’s Wine – Johnny Cash
Melva’s Wine – Johnny Cash: This upbeat track from country music legend Johnny Cash is a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, including good company and good wine. The song tells the story of a woman named Melva who makes her own wine, which is known to be strong and delicious. With its catchy melody and lively instrumentation, “Melva’s Wine” is a toe-tapping ode to the joys of rural living. Cash’s distinctive voice and effortless storytelling skills make this song a standout in his extensive discography.
7. Wine After Whiskey – Carrie Underwood
Wine After Whiskey – Carrie Underwood: In “Wine After Whiskey,” country superstar Carrie Underwood explores the aftermath of a breakup and the tendency to turn to alcohol to numb the pain. The song’s lyrics are raw and honest, as Underwood’s powerful vocals convey the heartache of lost love. With its bluesy guitar licks and smoky vocals, “Wine After Whiskey” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the emotional toll of failed relationships. Underwood’s ability to connect with her listeners through her music is on full display here.
8. Yesterday’s Wine – George Jones ft. Merle Haggard
Yesterday’s Wine – George Jones ft. Merle Haggard: This classic country song, originally written by Willie Nelson, tells the story of a man looking back on his life and reflecting on the choices he’s made. The melancholy tune is brought to life by the soaring vocals of George Jones and Merle Haggard, two of country music’s most iconic voices. With its wistful lyrics and mournful instrumentation, “Yesterday’s Wine” is a bittersweet reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing the moments that matter. The song is a true masterpiece of the genre and a testament to the enduring power of country music.
9. Good Friends and a Glass of Wine – LeAnn Rimes
Good Friends and a Glass of Wine – LeAnn Rimes: “Good Friends and a Glass of Wine” is a fun, upbeat song that celebrates the joys of spending time with loved ones and enjoying a drink or two. LeAnn Rimes’ soaring vocals bring the catchy lyrics to life, creating a party atmosphere that’s impossible to resist. With its infectious melody and relatable lyrics, “Good Friends and a Glass of Wine” is the perfect anthem for anyone looking to let loose and have a good time.
10. Two More Bottles of Wine – Emmylou Harris
Two More Bottles of Wine – Emmylou Harris: “Two More Bottles of Wine” is a classic country song that tells the story of a woman who turns to alcohol to cope with the pain of a broken heart. Emmylou Harris’ plaintive vocals capture the sadness and desperation of the lyrics, while the song’s rollicking instrumentation keeps the mood upbeat and lively. With its catchy chorus and timeless appeal, “Two More Bottles of Wine” is a beloved staple of the country music canon, and a reminder of the genre’s enduring popularity and influence.
11. Elderberry Wine – Elton John
“Elderberry Wine” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972 as a single from the album “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player.” The song is an upbeat rock track with lyrics about a man who has “the best homemade wine” made from elderberries. The song features John’s signature piano playing and a catchy chorus that invites listeners to join him for a drink. The song has been praised for its infectious melody and upbeat vibe, and it remains a fan favorite in John’s extensive catalog. “Elderberry Wine” is a great example of John’s ability to write catchy, radio-friendly rock songs with memorable hooks.
12. I Will Drink the Wine – Frank Sinatra
I Will Drink the Wine – Frank Sinatra: “I Will Drink the Wine” is a soulful ballad that showcases Frank Sinatra’s legendary vocal talents. The song’s lush orchestration and heartfelt lyrics create a romantic atmosphere that’s impossible to resist. As Frank croons about the pleasures of sipping wine with a loved one, the listener is transported to a world of romance and passion. With its timeless appeal and sophisticated charm, “I Will Drink the Wine” is a classic example of Frank Sinatra’s enduring popularity and influence.
13. Strawberry Wine – Deana Carter
Strawberry Wine – Deana Carter: “Strawberry Wine” is a nostalgic country ballad that tells the story of a young woman’s first taste of love and the sweet memories that accompany it. Deana Carter’s gentle vocals and the song’s gentle melody perfectly capture the innocence and wonder of young love. With its bittersweet lyrics and heartfelt emotion, “Strawberry Wine” has become a beloved classic in the country music genre and a timeless ode to the joys and pains of falling in love.
14. Spill the Wine – Eric Burdon & War
Spill the Wine – Eric Burdon & War: “Spill the Wine” is a funky, psychedelic rock song that showcases the unique musical style of Eric Burdon & War. With its infectious beat and trippy, surreal lyrics, the song is a celebration of good times and the pleasures of wine. Eric Burdon’s distinctive vocals and the band’s dynamic instrumentation create a sound that’s both funky and innovative. “Spill the Wine” remains a beloved classic in the world of rock music and a testament to the power of music to bring people together and inspire joy and creativity.
15. Jack Straw – Grateful Dead
“Jack Straw” is a song by the Grateful Dead, released in 1971 on their self-titled album. The song is a country-influenced rock track with lyrics that tell the story of a man on the run from the law. The song features the band’s trademark intricate guitar work and tight harmonies, as well as a catchy chorus that has become a fan favorite. The song’s memorable line “We can share the women, we can share the wine” has become an iconic lyric in the band’s catalog. “Jack Straw” is a great example of the Grateful Dead’s ability to combine country and rock influences into a unique and memorable sound.