It’s hot outside and you want a wine that will lift you up, without weighing you down. Here are a few ideas sure to please this summer and beyond.
Light and easy, one of the best options in white wine I have found lately is a Picpoul de Pinet from the Languedoc region of Southern France. Tasting like the sea, with a hint of fresh brininess melding with juicy citrus and orchard fruit notes, along with a layer of steely minerality, this will transport your palate to the Mediterranean. Pair with a bowl of steamed clams for a great summer night. Domaine Fonts Mars, Montignac, Gerard Bertrand and Paul Mas make lovely selections for $10-$15 a bottle.
Rioja is known for its Tempranillo wines, but the fresh and balanced white of the region, Viura is a perfect option for enjoying on warm summer days. One favorite is from Beronia, filled with white flowers, orange blossom and fresh citrus, and retailing for about $13 a bottle.
The wines of Alto Adige are crisp, fresh and very balanced with incredible character. From Gruner Veltliner to Gerwtztraminer to Pinot Bianco and Pinot Grigo, the wines are layered and lively. Look for producers like Tieffenbruner, Abbazia di Novacella, Elena Walch & Alois Lageder. Prices range from $15-$30 a bottle for many of their exported options.
Rias Baixas is the home of briny, citrus and floral filled Albarino. The perfect pairing to grilled octopus, fresh fish, light pasta and summer salads this Spanish wine is more than simple, as the texture filled wine has great depth and concentration, while remaining elegant and fresh. Martin Codax, Santiago Ruiz, Terras Gauda and Mar de Frades are excellent options for around $15-$25 a bottle.
I love an Italian Vermentino, juicy lemon-lime, crushed stone and clean minerality keep this balanced wine interesting. Happily, one of the best is made in Texas. Duchman Family Winery elevates their Vermentino with layers of white flower, lemon zest and mineral notes. Excellent, for about $15 a bottle.