07/08/08 Warm Weather Wines

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Yesterday's email question about wines with grilled foods inspired me. On today's program, we look at wines that are just plain good during the warm summer months. Yesterday we talked about the fact that not all of us enjoy red wine in the summer. I have to admit that I drink far less red wine during these months. I look at it as an opportunity to enjoy some fabulous dry rose', lots of the new Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and of course Champagne and sparkling wine. We often forget about the red wines that are very good with a slight chill on them, like Beaujolais, Rioja, some Rhone wines and many styles of Grenache. In fact, you can serve most any red wine at a cooler cellar temperature and you may find that you enjoy it even more. And when it comes to Sparkling wines, an Australian Sparkling Shiraz is a great wine to accompany outdoor grilling. It is rich, and refreshing at the same time. I know I mention it often, but in the summer especially, I think it is nice to take a break from heavily oaked white wines. Leave the big Chardonnay's behind in favor of crisper more fruity whites with good acid. I am becoming a real admirer of a well-made Viognier for summer sipping and dining. Break out of the mold and try some new things this summer. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at Vine to Wine dot net and thank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.