When temperatures start to rise, it’s time to reach for a refreshing wine. A heavy-bodied Merlot or Zinfandel won’t do the trick. Instead, it’s best to opt for something lighter and crisp.

Which are the best wines to enjoy during the summer months? Today we answer this question and more.

Below are the best wines to uncork this summer:

Best Red Wines

Contrary to belief, you can drink red wine in summer. However, not every red will be suitable for this season.

 Look for red wine with the following qualities:

• Low tannin levels
• High acidity
• Moderate to low alcohol levels

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is lighter than other reds and low in tannins. It has a fruity aroma of strawberries, raspberries and black cherries.

This is a red best served at a temperature of 15°C. It makes the perfect companion to a pork, chicken or mushroom dish.

Gamay

This light-bodied and earthy red wine has aromas of dried cherries and violet. You’ll also notice a bright and crisp flavour — making this the perfect wine for a hot summer day.

 Gamay is also a versatile wine that can be served with any dish.

Zweigelt

Zweigelt boasts a sweet and tart flavour with aromas of red cherry and black pepper. It’s possibly the best wine to serve at a picnic or barbeque.

Best White Wines

When choosing white wines for summer, we recommend wines with the following qualities: 

• High acidity
• Light to medium body
• Dry

 Riesling

There’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of riesling. With crisp notes of apple and citrus blossom, this wine can be enjoyed with spicy foods — like ginger and cayenne pepper.

Pinot Grigio

This light-bodied and crisp wine offers fruity aromas of pear and honeysuckle. It pairs well with seafood or light pasta.

Sauvignon Blanc

This dry and bright wine possesses fruity aromas of grapefruit, gooseberry and white peach. Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed with herb-dominant foods and hard cheeses like feta and gouda.

Best Rosé Wines

Rosé is a delicious summer staple. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your bottle of rosé: 

• Serve chilled at about 12°C
• Choose bottles younger than 2 years old

Pinot Noir Rosé

Pinot Noir Rosé delights your palate with delicate fruity flavours. With its high acidity, it’s best paired with fatty dishes like salmon or earthy spices like thyme.

Provence Rosé

This dry and fruity wine boasts refreshing flavours of berries and citrus — making it the perfect wine for a summer night.

Sangiovese Rosé

This bright and fresh wine offers vibrant notes of melon, strawberries, and peach. Serve with chicken, hard cheeses and couscous.

Which Summer Wine Will You Choose?

Whether you’re lounging on a beach or basking in the summer sun, the wines mentioned here are the perfect companion. Don’t forget to shop our array of reds, whites and rosés.