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“Refreshing Summer Wines”
As the weather grows warmer and the foods we eat get lighter, so does the vino. Wines with vibrant acidity, fresh fruit flavors, lower alcohol and less oak and little tannins are what your looking for. Some of my favorites for the summer are Albarino from Spain, Italian whites like Pinot Grigio or Moscato d’ Asti , Torrontes from Argentina, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc from France and California, Riesling from Germany and Washington State, French Sancerre and Pouilly Fume and Rosé. For reds look to lighter styles like Italian Bardolino or Valpolicella, Pinot Noir and Beaujolais. Of course if you’re having a juicy steak off the grill or some smoky BBQ ribs, don’t be afraid to pull out a Cabernet Sauvignon or a big Shiraz. There’s always the exception when the food is high in protein and robust. Here’s a list of outstanding summer sippers that sure to please almost everyone in the crowd. I will list the producer, grape varietal, short flavor profile and food pairing. Hope you enjoy the selection!
Martin Codax Albarino 2006 – fresh aromas and flavors of tropical fruits and peaches. The ultimate seafood wine. Pair with garlic shrimp and scallops. $ 14.99
Ottella Lugana Trebbiano 2005 – refreshing aromas and flavors of citrus, pear and apricots. Great snappy acidity like a fine Pinot Grigio. Great with summer green salads and oysters or shellfish. $ 12.99
Pighin Pinot Grigio 2005 – this wine is estate bottled and is fabulous. Crisp acidity and wonderful aromas and flavors of green apple, Bosc pear and citrus. Pair with light white fish, fresh salads and shrimp. $ 16.99
Batasiolo Moscato d’ Asti 2005 – lush and fruity with aromas and flavors of melon, peach and a touch of spice. Nice sweetness and semi-sparkling. Pair with fresh fruit and cheese cake. $12.99
Pannotia Vineyards Torrontes 2005 – one of the best examples of the Torrontes grape I’ve tasted in a year. Intense aromas of litchi and rose with flavors of peach, apricot and spice. Pair with seafood and Asian shrimp roll-ups. $10.99
St.Clair Sauvignon Blanc 20006 – this incredible wine has aromas and flavors of grapefruit and gooseberry with great balancing acidity. If you love New Zealand SB’s be sure to check out this producer. They also make a light Pinot Noir that’s great for the summer. Pair with fish, shrimp and as a aperitif. $14.99
Dry Creek Vineyards Dry Chenin Blanc 2005 – crisp and balanced with aromas and flavors of melon, citrus and tropical fruits. A must try for lovers of Pinot Grigio. Pair with smoked salmon, oysters or just by itself. $12.99
Have fun with your summer fare and grilling. I know I will!
Jeff Anderson
Sommelier
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