Summer is officially here and that means it’s time to enjoy the sun and the time off. Picnics and barbecues rule the weekends and wine is always a part of the fun festivities. We’ve gathered some bottles that will surprise, delight and entertain your friends and guests. Serve them well chilled with an aperitif menu items like a light and fresh charcuterie board, a classic cheese board or even pool/dockside.
Here are six bottles to enjoy this summer:
Graffigna Pinot Grigio
Graffigna is one of Argentina’s oldest wineries and Chief Winemaker Fernando Mengoni crafts his wines with precision and artistry. Graffigna was founded by an Italian named Santiago Graffigna, and the winery reflects the fusion of two cultures – Italy and Argentina. The wines of Graffigna showcase the cutting-edge spirit of Argentina with the passion, ambition, and heart of Italy. Blessed by the Andes Mountains with a climate built for grape growing, Graffigna Pinot Grigio has both tropical and citrus aromas and is crisp and delicious on the palate.
Nederburg Sauvignon Blanc
If you’re a lover of sunshine, Sauvignon Blanc is always a pairing that plays well. South African Sauvignon Blanc not only tastes fantastic but is always priced right (especially now with a $2 savings at the LCBO until July 16th, 2023). Full of zest, freshness and enticing aromas, this is a Sauvignon Blanc that everyone can fall in love with. Serve with freshly shucked oysters on a gorgeous patio sipping with friends for a fully complete experience!
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Quinta Da Raza Alvarinho 2022
Sipping exceptional white wines from Vinho Verde, Portugal has been my newest obsession. Unbelievably aromatic, incredibly textured and versatile, wines from Vinho Verde are a wonderful surprise for wine enthusiasts who love aged Rieslings, well-made Chardonnay, and premium Sauvignon Blanc (among others). I was able to visit Quinta da Raza when I was visiting the region in 2022 and fell head over heels for their wines. This Alvarinho (the name of the indigenous grape) is a definite must-try white offering up notes of soft jasmine, citrus and stone fruit. If you’re adventurous, reach for one of these bottles and you won’t be disappointed.
Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut Rosé Sparkling
Sparkling Rosé – need we say any more!? This Brut Rosé from Washington State’s founding winery Chateau Ste. Michelle is pure pleasure in a bottle. Beaming with light strawberry aromas, balanced with a crisp, clean and wonderful finish. This newly released bottle won’t be around for long, so grab some while you still can!
Chapoutier Belleruche CdRhone White AOC
White wines from the Rhône Valley in France are few and far between. This iconic bottle from Chapoutier has been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember and putting it in the fridge for a weeknight treat is a great way to celebrate the everyday. With soft pear, floral and citrus aromas, the palate is textured, mid-weight and just delightful. Made with Grenache blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Clairette et Bourboulenc this wine is an ideal aperitif to serve when guests arrive. No one can resist a fabulous wine from the Rhône Valley!
Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi DOC
Fazi Battaglia leaves a lasting impression, thanks to its iconic and historic bottle shape, as well as the extraordinary grape variety it houses. Verdicchio for this wine is grown in the hilly vineyards located in the heart of the Castelli di Jesi Classico area in the Marche region of Italy. Unforgettable, light and ideal with lunchtime pairings, Fazi Battaglia is always on my table when it comes to my family as it’s one of our favourites!
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