Summer is the perfect season to enjoy a chilled glass of white wine. From light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc to full-bodied Chardonnay, there’s something for everyone on this list of the top five white wines for summer sipping.
Sauvignon Blanc: Bright, crisp and fruit-forward.
Sauvignon Blanc is a refreshing, versatile white wine with a light body and fruity aroma. This wine has citrus, grapefruit and green apple flavours, making it perfect for sipping or paired with lighter summer dishes like salads or seafood.
Pinot Grigio: Light-bodied but flavorful with hints of apple and pear.
Pinot Grigio is a dry white wine with a light body and fruity taste. This variety combines citrus, green apple, peach and pear flavours and pairs perfectly with seafood, soups and salads. It’s also an excellent accompaniment to summer gatherings and parties since it’s easy to drink in large quantities.
Riesling: Crisp and fruity but with a touch of sweetness.
Riesling is a white wine variety with a sweet and floral aroma while being crisp and semi-sweet on the palate. Each producer’s flavour profile is unique, with notes of green apples, honey, jasmine and apricots. Although it’s a dessert wine due to its sweetness, it pairs perfectly with summer dishes such as seafood salads, grilled vegetables and savoury pies. It also has a high acidity level which helps cut through rich and indulgent foods while providing an intense burst of fruity flavours.
Albarino: A Spanish white wine made for enjoying in the sunshine.
Albarino is a Spanish white wine with its origins found in the northwest of Spain. It has become one of the most popular and easily recognizable white wines. You’ll find aromas of lemon and lime on the palate, along with notes of honeysuckle and apricot. Its acidity is balanced beautifully, making it an ideal pairing for fish-based dishes or salads with a citrus dressing. Its vibrant character also means it can be served slightly chilled to provide a cool but delicious refreshment over the warm weather months!
Chardonnay: Creamy and oaky, just perfect for outdoor entertaining.
Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines in the world and has a variety of flavours depending on its production. When aged in oak barrels, it develops some creamy and oaky characteristics on the palate. This makes it an excellent outdoor entertaining option, as its full-bodied character can stand up to heavier dishes like grilled vegetables or fish. Its complexity also allows for many different food pairings, making it a versatile choice for any summer menu.