Rosé All the Way
Summer and rosé are a match made in heaven. There’s something utterly joyful about pouring a glass of pale pink wine as the sun sets. Provençal styles are crisp and dry with delicate notes of wild strawberries, watermelon, and a touch of herbs. For something with a bit more oomph, try rosés from Spain or Italy—they often pack a little more fruit but still keep that refreshing edge.
The Joy of Chilled Reds
Not enough people give reds a chance in summer, but I’m a huge advocate of serving certain reds lightly chilled. A cool Pinot Noir or Gamay takes on a deliciously silky texture, with vibrant red berry notes that feel almost as refreshing as a white wine. It’s a brilliant choice with summer charcuterie boards, grilled vegetables, or even a simple tuna niçoise.
Summer Whites: Crisp, Bright, and Lively
Of course, white wines are the summer classics. I’m talking about wines with zingy acidity, clean citrus notes, and maybe a little touch of minerality or salinity. Albariño from Spain (or its Portuguese twin, Alvarinho) is an absolute favourite of mine this time of year. It bursts with peach, lemon zest, and a whisper of sea spray—perfect with grilled prawns, chicken Caesar salad, or a flaky fillet of salmon.
For a lemony, super-refreshing hit, you can’t go wrong with a Sauvignon Blanc. Or, if you fancy something aromatic, try a dry Riesling—it’s like a burst of lime and green apple, and it works wonders with spicy Asian dishes enjoyed in the garden.
No & Low Alcohol: Summer Sips Without the Buzz
Of course, summer’s not just about what’s in your glass—but how it makes you feel. Sometimes, you want all the refreshment and flavour without the alcohol, whether you’re the designated driver, pacing yourself on a long sunny afternoon, or simply taking a mindful break.
The good news? No & low-alcohol wines have come on in leaps and bounds, and there are some brilliant bottles out there that capture all the vibrancy of summer without missing a beat.
A sparkling option like Zeno Alcohol Liberated Sparkling is perfect when you’re craving bubbles. It’s crisp, bright, and offers delicate fruit notes that make it feel like a celebration, even if you’re keeping things light.
