As summer begins to wind down, I can’t help but think of some of my favorite summer wines to enjoy before the the warm weather withers away. Today I’m sharing some of my favorites to enjoy. Whether a fruity rosé, a crisp dry white paired with your favorite seafood or a robust red on a cool night by a bonfire, wine is a great way to relax and enjoy on a picnic or a summer evening.
As with everything else in life, wine is all about personal preference. What I consider too dry you may think is not dry enough. What I find perfectly fruity you might find robust. It’s all about that pallet. Here are just my suggestions, however I do tend to shy away from super dry wines and prefer to use them for cooking and I rarely ever drink a Moscato as I find them way too sweet. I tend to be somewhere in between…
Whites
Oak Grove – California – a bouquet of ripe grapefruit, flavors of fig, melon and spiced orange unfold in an understated manner. This undeniable value is a perfect aperitif or great with chicken or shrimp salad.
Josh Cellars – California – a personal favorite! A deliciously refreshing Sauvignon Blanc offering bright citrus and tropical fruit, with hints of dried herbs and a crisp, juicy finish. Pairs well with grilled fish.
Cupcake – Marlborough, New Zealand – also another favorite I’ve enjoyed very much. A zesty, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc with layers of zing. Reminiscent of delicious lemon chiffon cake, Meyer lemons and key limes.
Rosé
Anchor & Hope – Rhode Island – These are by far my favorite local New England wines! They are worth looking for in your local retailers. This fun, light and refreshing rosé is a Cabernet Franc based blend that has flavors of strawberry and rhubarb with lovely floral aromatics.
Cavit – Italy – This rosé is well balanced, fresh, dry, light and crisp. Ideal with all fish dishes, white meat and lighter courses.
Whispering Angel The Palm – France – Light and fruity and simply perfect! Serving temp between 60-65°
Reds
Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – California – another personal favorite I enjoy cooking with and with a good quality peice of chocolate! Aromas of ripe black currant, smoke and saddle. Flavors of dark cherry and ripe plum with a hint of vanilla and cocoa.
Coppola Director’s Cut – California – another fave Cabernet I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying. The wine has an elegant structure with layered fruit and a long, aromatic finish. I tasted flavors of cassis and black cherries enhanced by hints of espresso bean, spice and toasted oak.
Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi – California – A well-balanced Noir wine with aromas of cherries and orange peels. This elegant wine is round on the palate, with flavors of berries and cocoa, and a touch of spicy, toasty oak from barrel aging.
Apothic Crush – California – A decadent red blend that’s easy on the pallet. Combines red fruit flavors with notes of caramel and chocolate for a luscious yet velvety smooth wine experience. Blend of Petite Sirah and Pinot Noir.
