The sunshine is finally out in Vancouver and with it comes some great opportunities to drink. Wine is welcome at summertime BBQ’s, brunches, and on the patio for happy hour so it got me to thinking about which wines pair well with this hot, hot heat.
White Wine
Let’s start with a light, crisp wine. I recommend a nice Pinot Gris for a refreshing afternoon sip. Let’s not forget that white wine is served chilled, so it offers the benefits of cooling you down and also satisfying your taste buds. A great wine to have over lunch with poultry or fish, this can also be enjoyed with fresh fruit and veggies.
Next on my list to try: Gray Monk Pinot Gris
Sparkling Wine
If there’s one thing I love, it’s brunch. I’ll admit I’m a foodie when it comes to every meal, but there’s something about brunch that makes my heart sing. My favourite thing to have with eggs benny or an omelette? A mimosa. And in the summer? Score. Although mixed together, the champagne is a great compliment to the orange juice and creates a sparkly, heavenly drink. The type of champagne you use matters too! I would love to say I’ve tried a mimosa with Dom Perignon, but alas, I haven’t. I guess I’ll just have to stick with the under $20 varietals. Not so crazy on mixing your champagne with juice? Try enjoying a glass with a few strawberries thrown in. It tastes great and looks pretty too!
Next on my list to try: Baby Canadian Champagne
Rosé
Rosé is the type of wine that I drink most infrequently, which is a shame because it really is delicious and delightful. This would be a great hostessing gift to bring to a summer get together and can be easily paired with dishes ranging from appies to entrées. It’s not too light or too heavy and puts a smile on everyone’s faces because it’s pink! Ok, well, it at least puts a smile on my face because it’s pink.
Next on my list to try: Sawmill Creek White Zinfandel
Red
I used to think that I would shy away from red wines in the summer. I would hear words like “full-bodied” and “heavy” and they would make me think about the exact opposite of summer, so…winter. Truth is, there are a lot of great reds out there that can definitely hold their own at this time of year. Just think about all the barbecued steaks and hamburgers that are so often-enjoyed right now and how good a nice glass of red would pair with them .
Next on my list to try: Fetish the Watcher Shiraz
Hope you get to try some of these and please suggest some others for me to try! Happy summer!
