Summer is synonymous with freshness, conviviality and fun.
The summer, with its longer days and relaxed atmosphere, inspires the desire for outdoor dining, picnics, and refreshing tastings. This is also the time to enjoy easy-drinking wines without having to invest in expensive bottles. Rose is the wine that represents summer, but it’s certainly not the only option. You can enjoy white wines and even reds during the summer. Here are some of the best wines to drink during the summer months.
Roses – Summer’s unavoidable stars
Rose is the wine of summer. Contrary to popular belief, this colour can be used in a variety of styles. We’ve even written an entire article on the topic. Roses come in a variety of flavours that can be used as an aperitif or even to complement a meal. Press roses are ideal for those who want something light, fruity and refreshing. Consider, for instance, roses from the Corent wine appellation or certain Cotes de Provence. To get the most out of them, serve them chilled. You can do this in your fridge, an ice bucket or even a cooler box.
Summer Reds: Light and Fresh
Red wine is not prohibited in the summer. However, you must choose it carefully. Choose light, fruity, and fresh reds to quench your thirst in the heat. Red wines are available in the Loire Valley and Jura, as well as Alsace. Choose from pinot noirs, gamays, pineau-d’Auniss and trousseaus. Above all, serve them chilled at 14degC to avoid alcohol causing a sensation.
Whites: Minerality and tension in the season
The summer is the perfect time to put your sweet, syrupy white wines in the back of your cellar and replace them with more vibrant, tauter wines. These wines are often distinguished by their minerality, and they pair well with light summer dishes. These wines are available in the Loire Valley, from Muscadet and Montlouis to Savennieres and dry Montlouis. To fully enjoy their aromas, serve between 10degC and 12degC.
Choose Extra Brut Sparkling Wines
Summer is a great time for sparkling wine lovers to switch to less or even no dosage of champagnes and cremants. Choose extra brut or brutnature champagnes without tirage liquor instead of overly vinous or semi-dry champagnes. Blanc de Blancs, blended roses, and blanc de noirs are all better options than some overly structured Blancs de noirs. For a sparkling, refreshing experience, serve them as “frappe” at 8deg to 10degC.
Summary: Wines to suit every moment of summer
Summer is a season full of possibilities for wine enthusiasts. There are options to suit every mood, whether you’re a fan of rose, red or white. Do not be afraid to experiment with new combinations to enhance your summer meals.
