The Best Wines to Sip for Spring & Summer
White and Red Options that Are Perfect for Warmer Days
Apr 29, 2009
Wine has been widely and mistakenly panned as an "elitist" beverage; but this spring and summer, surprisingly affordable white and red wines are a match made in heaven with grilled foods and hot summer days.
Great Values for White Wine Lovers
White wine drinkers will do well to explore beyond the typical Pinot Grigios, Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays and Rieslings this summer. Lesser-known (but none-the-less respectable!) whites from around the globe offer exceptional bang for the buck, often costing less per bottle than a six-pack of domestic brew.
Exceptional value can be found in South African Chenin Blancs, such as the Wall Street Journal best bargain pick Ken Forrester Petit Chenin (which can be found for only $10.99 a bottle). Chenin Blancs tend to be crisp, clean, and fruit-forward with citrus, melon, and tropical fruit notes, but are not particularly sweet, making them a wonderful alternative for people who dislike sugary white wines. Chenin Blanc is a perfect wine to sip on the patio while waiting for the grill to heat up, or to enjoy with most Asian cuisines, especially sushi, Thai, and Chinese.
For an even lighter, more delicate crisp white, Vinho Verde is a fantastic value wine. From Portugal and literally translated to mean "green wine" (for the wine's youth, not it's color), this white is not a sparkling wine, but has a distinctive effervescence that makes for a refreshing drink on a summer's day. And even more delightful is it's price, which can range from around $6 to $12 a bottle at retailers like Whole Foods.
A Pinot By Any Other Name
A slightly more sophisticated alternative to Pinot Grigio is the same grape by another name: Pinot Gris. Pinot Grigio is known as Pinot Gris to the French, and in Alsace, France, this white wine is known for its clean minerality, floral aromas, and delightfully clean finish. A number of biodynamic and organic options are available, and while slightly pricier at around $25 a bottle, the quality is well worth the price. Domain Josmeyer in Alsace is a particularly notable biodynamic vineyard, and even makes a wine named for spring: the Pinot Blanc Mise du Printemps.
Red Wine in Summer? You Bet!
While many turn to white wine for its crisp and refreshing qualities in warmer weather, red wine makes an exceptional partner for summer fare. South African Pinotage, with its smoky, earthy notes and robust textures, brings out the juicy, savory notes in grilled meats, and being a lesser-known varietal, is still remarkably affordable. Take the Bon Cap Pinotage from Robertson, South Africa, which is organic and available for only $17.49. The leathery notes pair nicely with smoky sausage links or baby back ribs.
For white or red wine drinkers, this spring and summer are full of delicious wine and terrific value.
