OPI Malaga Wine VS Got the Blues for Red
Last updated 2026-03-23. This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
In today’s post, you’re going to see a comparison between two very similar, popular burgundy nail polishes.
The reason I’m sharing this comparison is because I happen to be a burgundy lover myself and have tested many of them.
These shades were featured in our post OPI Red Nail Polish Swatches: Find Your Perfect Red and while we haven’t posted all the burgundies in the world, of those that we have shared, they were the favorites.
In the above header image, you’ll see both colors on alternating fingers, side-by-side.
These colors are so similar they could be twins. Both are creamy burgundies, opaque in 2 coats, and plenty dark and vampy.
However, there are some minute differences - they’re subtle but present.
One great thing about OPI is that across all their lines (nail lacquer, long wear nail lacquer, nail treatment, gel color, dip powder, press on, etc), the colors have the exact same name.
This gives you the opportunity to branch out and experiment with different nail adornment types in your favorite color niche.
Now let’s look at their side-by-side similarities and differences:
What are the similarities?
They’re both burgundy red creams made by OPI that are opaque in 2 coats.
What are the differences?
They are minor, but Malaga Wine is cooler with more pink and blue tones; Got the Blues for Red is warmer with more red and brick tones.
These differences are so minute that it may not be easy for everyone to tell the difference.
But which one is right for you may come down to which undertone you prefer in a burgundy.
From this beauty writer’s perspective, pairing your skin’s undertone with the undertone of your nail polish is a flattering way to select a nail shade.
Though, if you already adore one of these colors, it’s worth it to try the other one, to have a variation of what you love in your collection.
Having nail polishes in a range of colors you enjoy is satisfying. It gives you choices when deciding your next manicure and variety is the spice of life.
Personally, I think they’re both beautiful shades - I wouldn’t be showing them to you if I thought otherwise.
Finally, something to consider is their legacy - OPI Malaga Wine is an original 1989 OPI Shade, with other favorites like Kyoto Pearl, Alpine Snow and OPI Red.
Got the Blues for Red was released in fall 2005 as part of the Chicago Collection, the same collection as Lincoln Park After Dark.
If you’re a polish historian, then in that case, I would start with Malaga Wine and then try Got the Blues for Red.
Other Articles You May Enjoy:
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Ulta Affiliate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.As a Beyond Polish Brand Ambassador, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Use coupon code LOTSOFLACQUER for 10% OFF at Beyond Polish!
