Wine Box Experience - Dustin Mangas

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 Grattamacco Bolgheri Superiore, a super-Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. When it comes to wines to enjoy during a summer cookout, you’d be hard pressed to look any further than a Tuscan red wine. The traditional kitchen of the region relies heavily on grilled rustic cuts of meat which this wine is ideal for. The addition of Merlot and Sangiovese bring vibrant red fruits and bright acidity which make this wine have a refreshing finish at the end of every sip.

Next, we offer the Viña Cobos Malbec Zingaretti Estates from the high-altitude single vineyards of the Mendoza region of Argentina. This higher elevation makes the grapes have a longer grow season providing the wine with greater levels of acidity and lively fruit flavors which produce a lighter style red wine. Similarly to the previous wine, the Argentinian kitchen is known for its grilled meats. This is another prime example of a red which pairs beautifully with rich meats but retains its brighter side. It would also benefit hugely from a 20-minute chill in the fridge to mellow it out.

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!