There’s still plenty of summer left and likely you will be planning outdoor gatherings, pool or beach days, picnics and family barbecues. Wine is always a welcome guest! Set up some pairings, make selections available to sip with friends and family, and be sure to bring along a bottle or two when visiting. These top-quality wines are very accessible. Websites are included for you to peruse the producers’ portfolio of wines.
Reds for the win when you are having a barbecue or serving a family style meal.
La Pieve Gran Selezione 2021 – This wine expresses the essence of San Felice’s Chianti Classico. It is comprised primarily of Sangiovese grapes harvested from the company’s finest vineyards. Each pour has an inviting rich ruby color in the glass. The broad and beautiful aromas have hints of blackcurrant and violet with the sweet spicy scent of licorice. This Chianti is a full-bodied, smooth and well structured. The ripe, juicy tannins blend nicely on the palate with the acidic component. Serve it with your favorite meat dishes, Italian charcuterie, pasta with a light tomato sauce and of course, with the family’s Sunday supper.
Visit: San Felice: the historic Tuscan vineyard, winery and 5* hotel | Borgo San Felice
Doña Paula’s Estate Malbec 2023 – This wine from the Mendoza, the premiere region of Argentina, shows exceptional character and reflects Doña Paula’s dedication and skills applied to vineyard management. The purity of the Malbec variety is highlighted through a harmonious palate and deep flavors, with a full body that is also lively and complex. Intense violet in color, the wine opens with aromas of black fruit, violets and spices on the nose, with some mineral and graphite notes. This Malbec has a great balance and freshness on the palate and the wine demonstrates great concentration and structure.
Visit: Doña Paula | Argentina
Louis Bernard Cotes du Rhone 2024 – This luscious blend is comprised of Black Grenache and Syrah. This wine has a festive cherry red color in the glass. It is expressive on the nose with the scent of ripe cherry and red fruits. On the palate, it is harmonious and rich, with round tannins and a lively, fruit-forward character. This supple wine is an exquisite example of the southern Rhone valley region. It pairs perfectly with poultry, grilled or stewed red meat, pizza, chili con carne or vegetable pie. It is appropriate to all occasions and it’s also vegan friendly.
Visit: Louis Bernard – Vallée du Rhône
Fresh, beautiful rosé wines shimmer to add a cheery note to your summer gathering.
KAIKEN Nude 2025 – This pale pink, clear and bright wine is comprised of 90% Grenache and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It offers the floral aromas of roses and violets. On the palate, the wine delivers a spirited freshness and a pleasing acidity that adds a real liveliness. Fresh on the palate, this rosé delivers notes of currants and blueberries with the delicate tastes of peach and apricots. It is a wine with a sophisticated structure, a smooth texture, and a long lovely finish. Pair Kaiken Nude with appetizers or a tapas meal and fresh seasonal salads.
Visit: KAIKEN WINES | HOME
Vera Wang, Rosé, Côtes and the Vera Wang, Rosé, IGP Méditerranée – These two Vera Wang Rosé wines are produced by Château Roubine. They are the result of a great collaboration between two extraordinary women: Vera Wang, fashion megastar, Queen of Bridal; and Valérie Rousselle, proprietor and CEO of Vignobles Riboud which owns and operates Château Roubine, one of the only 18 cru classé estates in Provence. Together, they have launched these two wines that represent the excellence of the southeastern coast of France and Provence, the birthplace of rosé. Of course, they’re adorned with stunning Vera Wang labels. It is Vera’s endorsement of their quality and taste, which are in symbiose with her uncompromising standards. In addition, they’re both made with organic certified grapes grown in accordance with Valerie’s and Roubine’s sustainable practices. Oh, and yes, they’re both kosher.
Visit: Château Roubine – Vignoble Cru Classé et vins AOC Côtes de Provence près de Draguignan dans le Var
Bring out the chilled summer whites to refresh and delight wine lovers!
KAIKEN Ultra Chardonnay 2023– The wine is golden yellow with bright old-gold highlights. On the nose, it is elegant with ripe white stone fruits such as candied pear with hints of citrus. Barrel aging contributes delicate aromas of hazelnut, and sweet spices such as vanilla and a subtle smoky touch. The complexity evolves with aeration, revealing notes of honey and dried white flowers. This Chardonnay is full-bodied and silky on the palate with a vibrant acidity. The long, lingering finish entices you to take another sip. Ideal to pair with grilled white fish with butter and herb sauce, mushroom risotto, roasted chicken dishes; and aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano. It also pairs well with delicate Asian cuisine.
Visit: KAIKEN WINES | HOME
Pine Ridge 2023 Chenin Blanc + Viognier -From the Napa Valley in California comes a crowd-pleasing classic with a special twist. This unique blend combines the crispness of Chenin Blanc with the floral notes and lush mouthfeel of Viognier. It is a versatile wine at a fine value that can be poured with everything from hummus dip to charcuterie boards. It is also the ideal wine to serve for your weekend brunches.
Visit: Home – Pine Ridge Vineyards
Brassfield Estate 2024 Sauvignon Blanc – Sourced entirely from estate vineyards in the High Valley AVA of California, this expressive white wine is layered with freshly sliced white peaches, Meyer lemon, and a refreshing minerality, just right for the season. Plan a late summer escape with this wine, even if it’s just in your backyard, or on the patio. Pair this Sauvignon Blanc with dishes such as grilled chicken, grilled veggies, or ceviche. It is a summertime delight.
Visit: Welcome to Brassfield Estate Winery
Top photo: Bigstock
