Light Wines For Summer

Everyone thinks wine is a winter drink to be served with heavy meals. Not true. There are plenty of light, fruity wines out there that would go well with salads and barbecues. They are delicate and crisp the perfect foils for grilled meats and vegetables. Some can even be used for accompanying desserts- unlike the more robust winter geared wines.

Summer wines are usually white although there are some refreshing reds and roses. Mostly everyone prefers the first however because it does go well with chicken and fish. Portugal gives us the perfect one in Vinho Verde a white with notes of grapefruit ans citrus. This can even be made into a white wine spritzer , perfect for back yard appetizers and finger sandwiches. Another summer stunner is the German Reisling wine. It too has citrusy notes as well as pear and apple. It can be accompany everything from the first course to dessert. It's the perfect drink on a warm August night.

Reds and roses get their due during these steamy days. Reds are always good next to a juicy home made burgers . The Spanish Riojas and French Beaujolais , with their mellow fruitiness and peppery notes are excellent with any barbecued ribs or grilled steaks. Roses are also good with these meats too. Roses are perfect with grilled salmon too. Try to buy ones that are low on tannins which give the wine depth and full bodiedness.

Don;t think that wine is only for the colder months. It's not. A good summer meals deserves a good summer wine. It'll bring out the sharp and delicious flavors of a barbecue or outdoor party.