By Ryan Burkett

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it’s time to embrace the spirit of summer with a glass of refreshing wine in hand.

From crisp whites to light-bodied delights, the world of wine offers a plethora of options that perfectly complement the sunny season. Join us as we explore a selection of summer-friendly wines from across the globe, each offering their own unique characteristics to enhance your summertime enjoyment.

Txakolina: The Effervescent Gem of Basque Country
Hailing from the Basque Country in northern Spain, Txakolina (pronounced chah-ko-LEE-nah) is a vibrant and slightly fizzy white wine that’s an absolute delight on a warm summer day.

Made from indigenous grape varieties such as Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza, Txakolina offers refreshing acidity, vibrant citrus flavors, and a subtle saline note. Its effervescence adds a touch of liveliness, making it a perfect accompaniment to fresh seafood, salads, and light tapas.

While there are a number of great Txakolina producers, one of the best is Bodegas Zudugarai- grab a bottle of their 2022 ‘Antxiola’ today!

Vinho Verde: Vibrant and Zippy Portuguese Elegance
From the vineyards of Portugal’s Minho region comes Vinho Verde, a wine renowned for its zesty character and light effervescence.

Despite its name, Vinho Verde (meaning “green wine”) refers to its youthful and vibrant nature rather than its color. Typically a blend of local grape varieties such as Alvarinho, Loureiro, and Trajadura, Vinho Verde offers crisp acidity, citrus flavors, and a refreshing, slightly spritzy mouthfeel.

Enjoy it as a standalone aperitif or pair it with fresh salads, grilled seafood, and light summer fare. The Vinho Verde from Quinta de Santiago offers amazing value and is a great way to get introduced to the style.

Soave: Italian Elegance in a Glass
Hailing from the Veneto region in northeastern Italy, Soave is a white wine that exudes elegance and style.

Crafted primarily from the Garganega grape, Soave offers delicate floral aromas, ripe orchard fruit flavors, and a lively acidity. Its medium body and smooth texture make it a versatile companion for a variety of dishes, from grilled vegetables to seafood pasta.

Soave’s balance and finesse are perfect for alfresco dining and warm summer evenings. But frankly, a lot of terrible Soave gets made. So make sure you are shopping at a reputable wine shop that selects their Soave carefully!

Albariño: The Essence of the Atlantic Coast
From the coastal regions of Galicia in northwest Spain comes Albariño, a white wine renowned for its crispness and aromatic charm.

With its notes of ripe stone fruits, zesty citrus, and a distinctive mineral character, Albariño embodies the essence of the Atlantic Ocean. Its bright acidity and medium body make it a versatile partner for grilled fish, shellfish, and summer vegetable dishes, capturing the coastal spirit with every sip. Do yourself a favor and find the Benitos Santos Albarino. You won’t need another wine all summer.

Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and Herbaceous Classic
No list of summertime wines would be complete without Sauvignon Blanc. Grown in various regions worldwide, Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated for its zesty acidity, vibrant fruit flavors, and distinct herbaceous and grassy notes. From the lively examples of New Zealand to the elegant offerings of Sancerre in the Loire Valley in France, Sauvignon Blanc is a go-to wine for its refreshing character and versatility. Enjoy it alongside fresh salads, goat cheese, grilled vegetables, or as a refreshing sip on its own. Our favorite comes from right next door to Sancerre, offering a similar climate to grow grapes without the price tag. Isabelle and Pierre Clément make a delicious, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc from Menetou-Salon that competes with the best from Sancerre.

Now is the time to unleash your inner wine adventurer and embark on an exploration of flavors. From the effervescent gem of Basque Country’s Txakolina, to the zippy Portuguese refreshment of Vinho Verde, these wines are ready to dance on your taste buds. Let’s not forget the Italian elegance of Soave and the essence of the Atlantic Coast in a bottle of Albariño. Go forth, wine-loving friends, and embark on a journey of delightful discoveries. Summer awaits, and so do these perfect wines. Cheers to a summer filled with flavor and fun!