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!

ThinK Wine thinks of expansion

Hayley and Kath

And in order to further facilitate the growth of the company they have appointed Hayley Coley as their new Sales Director.

Hayley joins the ThinK Wine team from established north west alcoholic drinks wholesaler Hops & Barley, where she held the position of Head of Sales for nearly four years, before she left to start a family. 

With in excess of two decades in the hotel and hospitality sector, mainly in F&B  sales and spa, golf and leisure hotels, it's Hayley's aims to employ her extensive contacts in the industry to spread the word about the unique features of the ThinK Wine brand. Hayley's tasked with driving forward an ambitious sales strategy that will exponentially grow the trade side of the business over the next five years.

Speaking of the latest appointment to her growing team, ThinK Wine founder, Kath Jones, said: “We're obviously very proud to welcome Hayley to the team.

“We have major plans to grow the trade side of our business, which hasn't been without challenges, especially for me as a female trying break through with a new brand in an industry that's still predominately male. 

"What spurs me on is that not only do I truly believe in our product and that palatable low calorie, low sugar options should be widely available on drinks menus, but once people try ThinK Wine, they are always won over by the taste and quality."

If you want to learn about stocking their delicious wines please visit https://www.thinkwinegroup.co.uk/pages/contact-us

In time for Mother's Day: Introducing the Della Vite Paloma Bellini, in collaboration with Ixchel

Ixchel, named for the Mayan goddess of the moon, is a beautiful Mexican restaurant on the King's Road, Chelsea. 

The talented team has created the Della Vite Paloma Bellini in honour of the weekend and all the women you choose to spend it with. 

This enticing cocktail is an exciting, zingy mix of the finest Tequila Blanco, fresh lime juice, homemade sugar syrup, zesty grapefruit soda and the smooth, extra bubbly and decadent Della Vite Superiore Prosecco, an award-winning Vegan premium fizz founded by Poppy, Chloe and Cara Delevingne. A delicate dusting of hibiscus salt on the glass adds floral and citrus notes to the finish. Salud!

Lunchtime diners will be offered a complimentary Della Vite Paloma Bellini with their meal. Head Chef Ximena Gayossa Gonzalez has crafted an exquisite menu with 'platos' designed to be shared. 

Why not try a Paloma Bellini alongside the Crab Macha Tostada, Grilled sea bass in pipián verde and sage butter and what is said to be quite possibly the best guacamole in London. Plus - prosecco AND tequila in the same cocktail? Sounds wonderful for all mums!

Friday 8th-Sunday 10th March; Ixchel, 33H King's Road,London, SW3 4LX. 

Visit: https://www.instagram.com/della_vite/?hl=en-gb 

Celebrate Sisterhood this Spring with Della Vite Prosecco

Raise a glass to the most important women in your life this Spring with the Delevingne sisters' wildly delicious Prosecco. From Mother's Day Celebrations, International Women's Day and beyond, Spring heralds celebration. Here's to sister soulmates!

Childhood holidays in Italy instilled a fervent love of the country, the traditions, and of course the food and drink for sisters Poppy, Cara and Chloe Delevinge. 

So when came of age they created their own perfect pour inspired by La Dolce Vita itself. Always passionate about family, the sisters are delighted to work with another close-knit famil, of third-generation expert winemakers, in stunning Valdobbiadene on the foothills of the Dolomites to create a stunningly delicious and timeless Prosecco. 

Della Vite production fuses the latest technology with traditional methods to produce the highest quality, vegan-certified liquid, encased in beautifully designed bottles. 

The unique extra long fermentation process of 90 days leads to a long smooth finish, extra creamy texture and the finest of long-lasting bubbles. This Spring, raise a glass to family and sisterhood. Saluti!

For an extra special Sunday Lunch

Della Vite Prosecco D.O.C Treviso Rosé is an elegant, pale coral pink in colour, made with Glera and Pinot Noir grapes. With an aromatic nose of freshly crushed wild berries and rhubarb. Perfectly paired with fresh ceviche, baked cavolo nero or nduja bruschetta, or try with mango sorbet or rhubarb panna cotta. Available from Sainsbury's, £21.50

Why not try a Rose Bloom Spritz?: Add 25ml Salcombe Rose Gin to a tumbler, and top with equal parts Della Vite Prosecco Rosé and London Essence Peach & Jasmine Soda Water. Garnish with a raspberry.

Gifts to toast to (under £20)

Della Vite Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. is delicious paired with nocellara olives, and figs with honey.  Under Italian wine law, D.O.C.G is the highest designation of quality among Italian wines, the hand-picked Glera grapes and offers a rich, extra-dry palate, with aromas of citrus blossom, olive, crostini and chamomile. Available in a luxe gift box at Sainsbury's, now £18 

Try a Sun Spritz:  Add 50ml Limoncello to a glass, 100ml chilled Della Vite Prosecco Superiore, and top with London Essence Peach & Jasmine Soda Water.

The Ultimate Foodie Gift (£65)

Make those important moments extra special: gorgeous glassware in stunning hues, designed by Poppy Delevingne in collaboration with super chic homewares destination Maison Flâneur. Each bundle set contains 2 unique glasses and a bottle of Della Vite Prosecco. Give the drinks trolly some decadence this year, this is glassware and bubbles to stand out and make a statement. 

The Pastel set - pink, blue and yellow, comes with a 75cl bottle of Della Vite Prosecco D.O.C Treviso Rosé.

The Velvet set - deep blue and green, comes with a 75cl bottle of Della Vite Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G.

Available from Maison Flâneur, here https://rb.gy/zqx0lm.

Savouring Love on a Budget: A Guide to Affordable Valentine's Day Dining

Valentine's Day, the day of love, is just around the corner. 

While many associate this romantic occasion with lavish dinners and extravagant gestures, it's entirely possible to celebrate without breaking the bank. 

This year, why not focus on the essence of togetherness and affection, rather than the price tag? In this guide, we'll explore creative ways to enjoy a delightful Valentine's Day eating and drinking experience on a budget.

Home-Cooked Delights:

There's nothing more intimate than preparing a meal together. Opting for a cozy night in allows you to control costs and create a unique dining experience. Select a simple yet delicious recipe that you both enjoy, and embark on a culinary adventure together. Not only does this save you money, it also adds a personal touch to your celebration.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients:

When planning your home-cooked meal, choose budget-friendly ingredients without compromising on flavour. Consider shopping for seasonal produce, which isn't only cost-effective but also fresher and more flavourful, too. Look for sales and discounts at your local shops and supermarkets to make the most of your budget.

DIY Decor and Ambiance:

Transform your home into a romantic haven without splurging on expensive decorations. Create a cozy ambiance with soft lighting, candles, (LED candles are safer) and maybe even a homemade playlist of your favorite love songs? Handwritten notes or small, thoughtful gestures can go a long way in making the evening special.

Wine on a Budget:

A romantic dinner isn't complete without a good bottle of wine. Instead of opting for high-end labels, explore more affordable options that still offer excellent quality. Many supermarkets carry hidden gems at reasonable prices. Check out Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrison's, Aldi, Lidl and Booths for some modestly priced but excellent wine. Own brand Propseco can be low in price but high in taste.

 Alternatively, consider a homemade cocktail or mocktail to add a personal touch to your beverage selection. 

Explore Budget-Friendly Dining Options:

If the idea of cooking at home isn't appealing, explore budget-friendly dining options in your area. Many restaurants offer special Valentine's Day menus or discounts on this occasion. Look for local deals, set menus, or prix-fixe options that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Wetherspoon and Hungry Horse are two good examples.

Daytime Adventures:

Consider celebrating Valentine's Day during the daytime to take advantage of lunch specials and matinee prices. A brunch date or picnic in the park can be just as romantic as a dinner date, and it often comes with a more budget-friendly price tag.

Gifts from the Heart:

Shift the focus from expensive gifts to thoughtful gestures. Create a handmade card, write a heartfelt letter, or put together a scrapbook of your favorite memories together. These gestures are not only more meaningful but are also budget-friendly.

This Valentine's Day, embrace the joy of love without the burden of overspending. Whether you choose to cook together, dine out on a budget, or opt for daytime adventures, remember that it's the thought and effort that truly make the day special. 

By being creative and mindful of your budget, you can create lasting memories without sacrificing the romance. Cheers to a love-filled and budget-friendly Valentine's Day!

(Image courtesy of Pexels from Pixabay)

The Ivy Collection Partners With Della Vite Prosecco Rosé for a Romantic Valentine's Day Celebration

From Saturday 10th February until Thursday 15th February, The Ivy is celebrating the season of love with a romantic set menu and partnership with Della Vite Prosecco Rosé, as well as a once-in-lifetime competition exclusive to Ivy Premier Rewards app members, making it the perfect place to spoil a loved one.

After receiving a glass of Della Vite Prosecco Rosé on arrival, guests can choose from a selection of dishes from The Ivy's delicious three course set menu full of culinary delights. Priced at £75 per person, diners are invited to enjoy a Duo of Prawns to start, complimented beautifully with avocado, tomatoes, and Marie Rose sauce. 

Main course options include exquisite plates like a succulent Fillet of Beef, Lobster Linguine or Coconut Sweet Potato Curry paired with Sprouting Broccoli and Truffle and Parmesan chips for the table. 

To finish, those with a sweet tooth can enjoy the 'Love is in the air' sharing dessert, with vanilla and strawberry parfait, raspberry sorbet and salted caramel chocolate truffles. 

Included in the menu is a glass of luxurious Della Vite Prosecco Rosé. Della Vite is a range of multi award-winning, vegan Proseccos founded by sisters Poppy, Chloe and Cara Delevingne and is all about freespirited, spontaneous and meaningful celebration. Della Vite takes the best of Prosecco's informal lifestyle and applies the craft, care and skill handed down through the generations to create one of the world's best tasting Proseccos. Indulge in the celebration of love with the sparkling allure of Della Vite Prosecco Rosé and the timeless charm of the Ivy Collection this February. 

Win an experience like no other with The Ivy Premier Rewards App 

Exclusive to The Ivy Premier Rewards App members, guests that make a reservation through the app in February will have the chance to win an experience like no other – business class tickets and an exclusive vineyard adventure for two to the Della Vite winery in Italy. 

The first joint venture between the Delevingne sisters, sees them partnered with a renowned Italian wine-making family, in the UNESCO-listed Prosecco region of Valdobbiadene. This extraordinary package includes a money-can't-buy private tour, a bespoke three course lunch, and a curated tasting of the Della Vite range amidst the enchanting vineyard surroundings. 

Unparalleled luxury awaits those who choose The Ivy Collection this February. 

 To book a table, please visit https://the-ivy.co.uk/book-a-table or book through The Ivy Premier Rewards App. 

Aldi expects to sell a bottle of fizz nearly every second

Aldi is predicting sales of its fizz range will jump 35%, as we Brits celebrate despite a lack of sunshine.

Shoppers can pick up a bottle of Aldi's popular Specially Selected Valdobbiadene Prosecco for a mere £7.99 a bottle, obviously available while stocks last.

Multiple Retailer of the Year, Aldi, is expecting bumper sales of its award-winning fizz range this Bank Holiday weekend, including today.

Despite a lack of sunny weather conditions, Aldi expects sales to jump 35% week on week, as we Brits celebrate our extra day off work.

Revellers are set to consume almost two million glasses of fizzy wines, that’s nearly a bottle of bubbly flying off Aldi’s shelves every second of the day.

So shoppers will be absolutely delighted to learn that Aldi's slashed the cost of its popular Specially Selected Valdobbiadene Prosecco (75cl) across stores all over the country.

Reduced to £7.99 a bottle from the original £8.49, this quality Italian sparkling wine is favoured for its light, creamy flavour and it delicate floral touches. Making a refreshing and aesthetically pleasing bottle of bubbles, perfect for raising a toast to the Bank Holiday weekend. No matter what the great British weather throws at us!

Aldi’s Specially Selected Valdobbiadene Prosecco is available in stores now, whilst stocks last.

You can check on the opening times of your nearest Aldi store here https://www.aldi.co.uk/opening-times/bank-holiday.

https://www.aldi.co.uk

Celebrate National Prosecco Day with a Witt pizza

Why not raise a glass to National Prosecco Day this Sunday 13th August with the perfect pairing, delicious authentic Italian homemade pizza and bubbly Prosecco?

Pop open a bottle of fizz, gather your friends and family members, and host a Prosecco filled pizza party with the help of Witt pizza curators of the impressive pizza oven range which is taking the UK by storm this throughout this summer.  

Says Geoff Johnson Witt Sales Director, and Pizza Guru at Witt UK & Ireland: “The crisp, aromatic flavours of Prosecco makes it a suburb partner with even the more traditional types of pizzas. 

The sparkling fruit nuances and light balance of Prosecco really create a wonderful contrast to the denser tones of cheese and sliced meats, and its clean, refreshing punch partners especially well with seafood toppings such as prawns and shellfish.”

https://www.wittpizza.com/

(Image courtesy of Nicole_80 from Pixabay)

Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals Launches Botanical Brunch

Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals, the enchanted land of flora and fauna in London's Fitzrovia is set to launch its special Botanical Brunch on Saturday 27th May. The bar will be bringing brunch classics, sweet treats and bottomless, build your own botanical prosecco Bellinis to Newman Street, just in time for the final Bank Holiday in May.

The Botanical Brunch will offer guests two courses, one savoury and one sweet, alongside bottomless prosecco or Kombucha Bellinis with plant-based purees in cucumber & mint, strawberry, red rose and lemon thyme or yellow and orange pepper, for 90 minutes. 

Additional a la carte cocktails include their unique, clear Bloody Mary. Each Bellini will be 'make you own' with a variety of foams, flowers, botanicals, sweets, fruits and vegetables.

First course brunch dishes range from classic Eggs Benedict with smoked ham, poached eggs, roasted tomato on a toasted muffin served with Hollandaise sauce and smoked salmon and avocado with watercress salad on toasted sourdough to aubergine parmigiana (Vegan option available) bringing together roasted aubergine, mozzarella, homemade tomato sauce and spinach.

Desserts will include The Pink Fluffy Pancakes with mixed berries, strawberries and maple syrup as well as a warm Vegan and Gluten Free Chocolate Fudge Brownie served with berries.

The Botanical Brunch from Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals will happen every Saturday priced at £48pp, for two-course brunch, bottomless botanical Bellinis and take-home wildflower seeds and is available to book here https://www.mr-foggs.com/event/botanical-brunch.

You can find Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals here:- 48 Newman Street London W1T 1QQ.

mr-foggs.com

T & IG: @mrfoggsgb

Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals is home to a stunning and magnificent display of the explorer's botanical acquisitions and eccentric souvenirs of his global adventures. A perfect complement to the other Mr Fogg's bars across London, the space is flooded with welcoming natural light with large sash windows and ceilings high enough for the tallest of trees, creating a sense of bright airiness throughout.  

The downstairs features an intimate seating area shrouded in plants, plenty of hanging ivy and a beautifully crafted handmade oak wooden bar surrounded by floriferous foliage. 

Head upstairs and you'll discover a more intimate cocktail experience: The Treehouse, available to hire for everything from floral cocktail master classes to guided tasting parties.

Opening Hours:

Monday – Closed

Tuesday – Thursday: 4pm – 12am

Friday: 2pm - 1am

Saturday: 12pm – 1am

Sunday: 2pm – 11pm

The Inception Group are well-loved for their unique and eclectic hospitality concepts and own and operate all of the Mr Fogg's venues across London including Mayfair based Mr Fogg's Residence, modelled on the actual home of Jules Verne's character Phileas Fogg, and Mr Fogg's Apothecary.

Mr Fogg's Tavern, is  Victorian-inspired pub in Covent Garden, and Mr Fogg's Gin Parlour, which serves over 300 different varieties of gin. 

As well Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals, a Fitzrovia-based floral oasis, there's Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration, just minutes away from Charing Cross station and of course Mrs Fogg's Drinkery and Distillery, and the newly launched Mr Fogg's Pawnbrokers in Soho, with more sites planned for later this year2023.

Other Inception Group venues include Cahoots, a 1940s-inspired bar set in a hidden underground tube station, a Chelsea speakeasy called Barts, 80s themed nightspot Maggie's, as well as Bunga Bunga Covent Garden and the newly launch Control Room B at Battersea Power Station.