A generous serving of red wine in a Beef Bourguignon recipe helps to create a rich flavor in the sauce. The recipe calls for a red wine from the burgundy region of France, primarily made from Pinot Noir grapes. You can substitute a Pinot Noir from another region or other light-bodied red wines like Grenache, Gamay, or a light-bodied Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon is typically more robust, but it can work if you choose a softer and less tannic variety. Ultimately, when you are choosing a cooking wine, make sure that it is one that you will also enjoy drinking.