The Best Wines to Drink During Summer: A Refreshing Guide

As the sun graces us with longer days and warmer temperatures, there's nothing quite like a refreshing glass of wine to enhance those balmy summer evenings. 

Whether you're planning a garden party, a picnic in the park, or a quiet evening on the patio, the right wine can elevate your experience. 

Here's a guide to some of the best wines to enjoy during the summer months.

1. Crisp Whites: Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a quintessential summer wine. Known for its bright acidity and refreshing crispness, it's perfect for those hot days when you need something to cool you down. Look for notes of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruits. New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are particularly renowned for their vibrant flavours and aromatic profiles, making them a fantastic choice for summer sipping.

Pairing Suggestions: Grilled fish, goat cheese salads, and light appetisers.

2. Elegant Rosés: Provence Rosé

No summer wine list would be complete without a nod to rosé. Provence rosé, with its pale pink hue and delicate flavour, is the epitome of summer elegance. These wines typically offer a delightful balance of fresh red fruit, citrus, and floral notes. They're light, versatile, and perfect for almost any occasion.

Pairing Suggestions: Mediterranean dishes, seafood, and fresh salads.

3. Zesty Whites: Albariño

Albariño, a gem from Spain's Rías Baixas region, is a superb summer wine. It’s known for its high acidity, zesty citrus flavours, and subtle hints of stone fruits and minerals. Albariño's crisp and clean profile makes it incredibly refreshing, particularly on a hot day.

Pairing Suggestions: Shellfish, sushi, and light tapas.

4. Refreshing Reds: Beaujolais

While red wines are often associated with cooler weather, certain reds are perfect for summer. Beaujolais, particularly Beaujolais Nouveau, is light, fruity, and best served slightly chilled. This wine, made from the Gamay grape, is known for its vibrant red fruit flavours and low tannins, making it a refreshing choice for summer.

Pairing Suggestions: Charcuterie, grilled vegetables, and barbecued chicken.

5. Sparkling Wines: Prosecco

Sparkling wines are a fantastic way to add a touch of celebration to your summer gatherings. Prosecco, with its light body, fruity flavours, and fine bubbles, is an excellent choice. It’s generally more affordable than Champagne but still provides that sense of festivity. Serve it chilled to enjoy its crisp, refreshing qualities.

Pairing Suggestions: Fresh fruit, light appetisers, and summer desserts.

6. Aromatic Whites: Riesling

Riesling is another versatile wine that shines in the summer. Its balance of sweetness and acidity, along with its aromatic profile, makes it incredibly refreshing. Look for dry or off-dry versions for the best summer experience, with flavours ranging from green apple and citrus to peach and apricot.

Pairing Suggestions: Spicy Asian dishes, pork, and summer fruits.

Tips for Serving Wine in Summer

Chill Wisely: While it’s common to serve white and rosé wines chilled, consider lightly chilling some red wines like Beaujolais or Pinot Noir for a refreshing twist.

Proper Glassware: Use glasses designed to enhance the wine's aromas and flavours. For example, a wider bowl for reds and a narrower one for whites.

Keep it Cool: If you're hosting an outdoor event, keep a bucket of ice water nearby to maintain the optimal serving temperature of your wines.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wine for summer is all about finding those light, refreshing, and vibrant flavours that complement the season's activities and cuisine. Whether you prefer a crisp white, an elegant rosé, or even a chilled red, there's a perfect summer wine out there waiting for you. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and enjoy the warmth of the season with your favourite summer sips. Cheers!