Summer is finally here! Get your glass ready, we have plenty of refreshing wines to pair the season.
Warm weather means picnicking, grilling, hiking, beach and lots of sunshine. Whether you want to pair a crisp white for an outdoor brunch, a lighter red for a barbecue, a fruity rosé with a sunset or a refreshing red for a dinner under the stars, let me tell you something: there is a grape varietal for any occasion.
I always says, “one life is not enough to taste all the grapes in the world”. So let’s be adventurous this summer, taste something new!
- Look for wines with high acidity, this is what gives freshness to wines
- Search for medium to light body wines, that is also a sign of medium-low alcohol wines
- Don’t be afraid of rosés with an “intense personality”
- Low tannin levels are the best, avoid heavy wines during the season
A few suggestions:
Vinho Verde
Means “green wine” because this region in Portugal is truly green. This white, young, fizzy wine, made with local grapes, is extremely affordable. It has great acidity, and lot’s of green notes on the palate. Because they are low in alcohol, they become the best companion at the beach or picnic. Enjoy chilled.
Albariño
One of the most popular white wines in Spain. Fresh acidity, aromatic, with citrus and honeydew notes, rich stone fruit flavors, and a salty touch due to the proximity of the vines to the ocean. Perfect with seafood, sushi and vegetables. Serve chilled.
Tavel
This Rhone Valley region (France), host the most “dramatic” and fascinating roses. Tavel is usually a bold blend or nine grapes (primarily Grenache and Cinsault). The intense fresh red berries and sometimes nutty nose, enhances the wines with a unique complexity. Not a beach rosé, but a “light red wine” you have to slightly chilled to enjoy while grilling.
Lambrusco
Lovely and refreshing! This light, floral, dry frizzante (bubbles) red wine, makes great pairing with the sun. Made with native grapes from the Emilia-Romagna in Italy. This blend makes bright purple color, lightly tannic and low in alcohol wines with the perfect mix between acidity and sweetness. Look for the best quality, a DOC sealed in the bottle (protected region). Serve chilled and pair with charcuterie, bolognese or barbecue. Always affordable and always a pleasure to drink.
Bonarda
Argentina may be known for its Malbec, but during summer I prefer Bonarda to pair with burgers, dogs and empanadas. This french grape makes his home in Mendoza, Argentina. Great value, soft fruitiness, good acidity, medium alcohol and good price. It’s now on the spotlight.
If you can’t find them in your favorite wine store, order them online, don’t miss this experience. Except the Tavel, these wines don’t age. Chilled for 3-4 hours after tasting, don’t keep them for a few days in the refrigerator, unless is a wine cooler. If you want to chill last minute, insert the bottle in a bucket with water and ice (50/50) and a pinch of salt. In 20-30 minutes will be perfect!
Happy and healthy summer!
