Wine Box Experience - Karen Joiner

Feels Like Summer

As the months are winding down this summer and the temperatures are still holding at scorching levels, I figured this would be a fun time to talk about perfect wines for this time of the year. Summer wines are all about embracing the heat, sunshine, and laid-back vibe. These wines tend to be lighter, crisper, and more refreshing, making them ideal wines for the hotter months. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, grilling in the backyard, or enjoying a picnic, summer wines add a certain chill approach to any occasion.

Adding summer wines to your collection is a savvy move for any wine enthusiast. They provide options that are seasonally appropriate and versatile. While richer wines might be perfect for winter, summer wines are like a breath of fresh air, offering something light and invigorating. They’re also a great way to explore different varietals and regions that shine in warmer climates, such as “rosés all day”, crisp whites, or lighter reds that can even be served with a slight chill on them.

They often feature bright acidity, vibrant fruit flavors, and lower intensity, which not only makes them incredibly drinkable but also perfect for pairing with the lighter food that make up summer menus—think salads, seafood, and grilled vegetables. Let’s take a look at your selections.

First off, we have the Papagiannakos Assyrtiko. A bright and vibrant white wine from the Attica region of central Greece. Nothing screams hot summer days quite like an Assyrtiko. Known for its flavors of lemon, grapefruit, green apple and peach, this wine is the perfect refreshing pairing for seafood, soft cheeses and lighter fare of salads and summer vegetables. It’s even just a great wine to “pop-and-pour” as a day drinker by the pool or at the beach with its lively style compared to other fuller white wines.

Next, we offer the Celler de Roure Safra. A lively red wine from the Valencia region of Spain. Obviously, the perfect hot weather wine has to come from Valencia which is known for its mediterranean climate. This wine features the Mandó grape which is a native grape to the region and provides bright red fruit flavors and a balanced brightness of acidity and aromatics. Perfect for grilled meats from a barbecue or tapas at a picnic.

I hope these wines provide the proper setting to enjoy during the last days of summer. These wines not only enhance your summer experiences but also diversify your palate and elevate your overall wine collection. They’re always a delight to have and bring out the brighter side of the world of wine. Stay cool and cheers!