Enjoying Summer Wines

Summer is all about having fun, staying cool and relaxing. When you think about enjoying summer wines, the same rules apply. Drink wines that allow you to have fun, stay cool and relax. So how do you do that?

Tip #1 for Enjoying Summer Wines

Keep it simple. In WineEnthusiast, Dick Rosano says that “the key to successful wine-food pairing for outdoor dining is simplicity. Don’t choose a wine that requires too much thought because the setting doesn’t call for that. The wines should fit the food, but they should also fit the casual mood of the gathering.” He says that the spirit of outdoor dining necessitates serving lighter, less cerebral, beverages. Think crisp, acidic and refreshing. What immediately comes to mind is Sparkling Wine, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. I also think of Rosé, which can be incredibly refreshing. For reds, I would go with Sangria, Gamay or Pinot Noir. These three wines are on the low tannin side, making them refreshing options.

Tip #2 for Enjoying Summer Wines

Keep the alcohol content down. Not only can alcohol go to your head more quickly in the summer. It can also negatively affect the taste in your glass. Wine heats up quickly on a hot day, which can result in an overbearing alcohol flavor, instead of the fruitiness or citrus notes you’re looking for.

Tip #3 for Enjoying Summer Wines

Chill everything. Serving reds at 60 degrees instead of 70 degrees will bring out the wine’s fruitiness, which will make it much more refreshing.

As an independent wine consultant with WineShop At Home, I love bringing the taste of the Napa wine country home to you one sip at a time. Whether you simply love to drink wine, would like to host a tasting, seek a special gift, or are in search of a new wine business opportunity as a wine consultant, feel free to contact me for a truly unique wine tasting experience.

Cheers!