Now that the summer days are well underway, nothing beats the pleasure of a good wine tasting, on the terrace, during happy hour or to accompany a meal, even when the thermometer is climbing. And God knows we’re getting a lot of hot weather this year!
Although white and rosé wines are often preferred for their coolness, red wine lovers shouldn’t deprive themselves during heatwaves.
Ready to rediscover the charm of red wine in warm weather? Here are five red wines, specially chosen to be enjoyed this summer.
Pierre-Marie Chermette Beaujolais Griottes 2022
A fresh, easy-drinking Gamay with cherries at its best. A thirst-quenching wine to be enjoyed as an aperitif, but with enough body to accompany spicy dishes or grilled meats. Available at the SAQ
Nicolas Grosbois La Cuisine de ma Mère 2021
Another fresh, fruity wine, with notes of strawberry, raspberry and rose. This organic and natural Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley has tannins that give it a lovely structure, perfect for pairing with charcuterie platters, roast chicken or grilled pork. Available at the SAQ
Le Bonheur Cinsault Swartland 2021
Le Bonheur is located in the Stellenboch region, renowned for its qualitative wines. Here, Cinsault is the grape variety in the spotlight. On the palate, we’re seduced by its acidity and aromas of cranberry, raspberry and pepper. This wine is easy-drinking and light, and its balanced tannins make it an ideal accompaniment to grilled white meats, such as chicken breast, as well as red meats. Available at the SAQ.
Château Mourgues Du Grès Costières de Nîmes Les Galets 2022
This blend of Syrah and Grenache is slightly bolder than its predecessors. This organic wine, with its notes of raspberry, cherry and flowers enhanced by a hint of spice, is generous on the palate and a perfect match for grilled white or red meats, as well as cold meats and cheeses. Available at the SAQ.
Le Rouge VRDC
This summer, the Rivière du Chêne vineyard launched a new range of wines for sale in Métro and IGA grocery stores.
The Rouge VRDC, a blend of Frontenac noir, Maréchal-Foch and Léon-Millet, can be enjoyed in warm weather on the terrace, accompanied by a charcuterie platter, pizza or pasta dish. With good acidity, a generous palate that opens with aromas of red berries and supple tannins, this is a perfect summer wine.