Summer is finally here and this means that there is tons of occasions to gather around a good BBQ or for an aperitif on the terrace.
Holidays, Father's Day, vacations... these are all good reasons to uncork a good bottle to accompany a meal with friends or family.
In anticipation of these beautiful moments, here are 5 suggestions of wines to discover this summer to accompany charcuterie platters, grilled fish and seafood as well as roasted meat pieces.
Year after year, this Niagara-on-the-Lake wine is one of my favorites. Classified as a white wine, its slightly orange salmon color, obtained after a pellicular maceration, places it halfway between an orange wine and a rosé wine in terms of aromas.
Composed of pinot noir, pinot gris and petit verdot, hence the name P3, you can taste notes of strawberry and rhubarb, peach and white flowers.
It can be served as an aperitif, with charcuterie, grilled seafood such as shrimps or salads.
Malagousia is a Greek grape variety that was on the verge of extinction before being replanted in the 1970s. This is good as this aromatic variety produces elegant and delicate wines with notes of flowers, tropical fruits such as peach or mango and a hint of citrus.
This white wine can be served as is, as an aperitif, and goes very well with seafood, grilled vegetables, poultry, cheese and salads.
It will be a favorite on the terrace this summer, guaranteed.
Made from a blend of different grape varieties, including the famous national touriga, this organic wine from the Douro region is a versatile wine that is always a hit.
Excellent value for money, well balanced, with just the right amount of tannin, this wine goes well with grilled red meat as well as poultry.
The No.2 de Macaillou is a wine from the Moulis-en-Médoc appellation. Composed of cabernet-sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot, it is a charming and round wine with notes of black fruit, licorice, a touch of black pepper and silky tannins. It can age well, so it's also a great gift idea. Any ideas for pairing? Think cheese platter or grilled steak.
Washington state produces some excellent wines and Pendulum Winery is a good example. Its Cabernet Sauvignon, harder to find these days, is superb as is the Columbia Valley, a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. It's fruity and round, with notes of black cherries, plums and blackberries. You can also perceive spicy notes. It is perfect served with grilled beef or roast chicken.
Marie-Noël Ouimet is a writer and content creator specializing in gastronomy, wine, and travel. She is the founder of the digital magazine Urbaine City, where for over 10 years she has been highlighting the pleasures of the table and the destinations that bring them to life. She also holds the WSET Level 3 certification in wines and spirits.
