Yes, there are questions we get tired of answering. Guess that’s true in all professions, but some questions really deserve thoughtful answers. The obvious question of the moment is: what are the best wines for summer?

There are hundreds of great wines out there that are perfect for warm summer days. Although there are about as many styles as there are bottles, a few common denominators exist when selecting a wine for the patio. Start with crisp acidity, throw in a low alcohol content and then mix vigorously with lighter fruit flavors. The end result is a wine that will delight the senses and dance across the palate.

White wines with fruity flavors are always a great choice for summer. You can never go wrong with a Reisling or Gewurztraminer. They tend to have a touch of sweetness, which makes them refreshing when chilled, because the residual sugars and the aroma will really stand out. When the fruit flavors are easily recognizable (peaches, pears and citrus) and fruit forward, the aroma itself is energizing and inviting.

While many Chardonnays with heavy oak and cream won’t really do the trick on a hot day, there are numerous Chards that avoid the oak and the malolactic fermentation (that adds that rich and creamy feel) and thus stay crisp and fresh. Chardonnays from Australia or even progressive California wineries express little malolactic and oak and the result is pure fruit, a lighter mouth feel and a zippy finish.

Sauvignon Blanc is a favorite summer white as the grape is naturally high in acidity and has a backbone of citrus fruit that is very refreshing. Although there are those who consider Rosé a weak substitute for red and an odd replacement for white, for summer sipping a crisp rosé is hard to beat. And a fruit forward Pinot Grigio can’t be beat while sipping at the pool.

Pairing wine with grilled foods is a forgiving task. Most grilled dishes are relatively simple; there’s a main ingredient plus the possibility of various seasonings in the form of marinades, rubs and sauces. To choose a wine to pair with something off the grill, just consider the heartiness factor. For lighter foods—white-fleshed fish, vegetables, chicken breasts—pick a lighter wine. For heartier foods—sausages, burgers, steaks—choose a more robust wine. Both reds and whites can be light, medium, or full-bodied. It’s summer - err on the side of lightness.

And admittedly, although many adamantly oppose the idea, Sangrias are a good choice for hot weather. Mixing various citrus fruits with wine, sparkling water and ice can make for a beautiful summer drink, because they are not high in alcohol and well - definitely fruity.

So, we’ve come full circle. When choosing a summer wine start with crisp acidity, look for low alcohol content and embrace the fruit. And as always, if you need a specific suggestion - just give us a call.