|
"Wines for the Patio"
This time of the year we're getting outside with family and friends and serving up lighter fare. As the weather continues to get warmer we start gravitating towards crisp and refreshing wines. Red, white or rosé can all fit the bill as long as the wine has the right body style and mouthwatering acidity. If you're looking for an aperitif choose a wine with low oak and light to medium in body. High alcohol wines with tons of oak tend to be much too heavy as starter wines and should be used with grilled meats later on. Some of my favorite whites this time of the year are Sauvignon Blanc, Albarino and Gruner Veltliner. For reds I like Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Rhones and blends. If like dry wines and want something in a pink shade' check out some of the fabulous dry Rosé coming from around the globe. These wines are super food friendly because there lighter in style but still have body to them. Also remember serving temperature is 45 degrees for Champagne/Sparklers, 50 for whites and 60 for reds. If its 80 outside don't be afraid to give your reds a chill. Here is a super fun list for you and your friends to enjoy!
Chateau Font Mars Picpoul De Pinet 2008, France - Picpoul is the grape and means lip stinger because of its vibrant acidity. If you enjoy Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio check this grape out for the summer. Pale golden color with aromas of lemon and lime. Flavors of pineapple and peaches fill the mouth with crisp acidity. Great with shrimp, scallops, fresh green salads or as a starter wine.
Venta Morales Tempranillo 2008, Spain - Here is another gem from Spain that will be great this spring and summer. It's also light enough to pair with all kinds of food. Dark inky purple color with aromas of red fruits and spice. Flavors of licorice and black cherry sing on the palate with a silky mouth feel. Killer for the money! Pair with grilled chicken, grilled pork or rare beef.
Saint- Peyre Sauvignon 2008, France - I love this wine because of it's food friendliness and refreshing snap. Pale color, with aromas of grapefruit and stone fruits. Flavors of mango and peach sing in the mouth with a balance between fruit and acidity. A real winner for the price! This wine sings with summer salads, chicken salad, grilled chicken or fish. Also excellent on its own.
Montoya Pinot Noir 2009, Monterey California - This winery is making one of my favorite Pinot Noir for the money. Monterey has a perfect climate for this grape and it shows through in the bottle. Light ruby red color in the glass. Aromatics of raspberry and spice fill the air. Flavors of black cherry, strawberry and raspberry coat the palate with a silky texture. A serious wine for a great price! Pair with grilled Salmon, Brie cheese, chicken and grilled pizza.
Chateau Grande Casagne Rosé 2008, France - If you enjoy a serious dry rosé at a great price this is it. The Darde family has been making tasty wines for generations and it show in their wine. Gorgeous salmon pink color. Aromas of strawberry and cherry fill the air. Mouthwatering flavors of raspberry and more strawberry fill the palate. Dry ,but very refreshing. Pair with cold cuts, sandwiches, salads and chicken.
Jeff
Sommelier
|
