Which wines to drink in summer?
Summer: synonymous with freshness and conviviality
Summer, with its lengthening days and relaxed atmosphere, inspires a desire for outdoor meals, picnics and refreshing tastings. It's also a time for easy-drinking, accessible wines, without necessarily investing in expensive bottles. While rosé remains the emblematic wine of the summer season, it's not the only one that can accompany your moments of relaxation. White wines, and even reds, can also find their place on your summer tables. Here's a roundup of wines to enjoy during the warmer months!
Rosés: Summer's Unavoidable Stars
If there's one wine that goes hand in hand with summer, it's rosé. But contrary to popular belief, this color conceals a wide variety of styles. In fact, we've devoted an article to the subject. Whether for an aperitif or to accompany a meal, rosés offer a wide range of flavors to suit every occasion. For those looking for something light and very refreshing, press rosés, lightly colored and fruity, are ideal. Think, for example, of rosés from the Corent appellation or certain Côtes de Provence wines. And to take full advantage of their qualities, don't forget to serve them well chilled, whether in the fridge, in an ice bucket, or even in a cool box for picnics.
Summer reds: light and fresh
Contrary to popular belief, red wine doesn't have to be banned in summer, as long as you choose it wisely. Opt for light, fresh, fruity reds that will quench your thirst even in hot weather. The Loire Valley, Jura and Alsace offer a wide variety of red wines perfectly suited to the season. Varieties to choose from include pinot noir, gamay, pineau d'Aunis and trousseau. And above all, don't forget to serve them chilled, at around 14°C, to avoid the heat reinforcing the sensation of alcohol.
Whites: minerality and tension for the season
Summer is the ideal time to leave your sweet and syrupy wines at the back of the cellar, in favor of livelier, tauter white wines. These wines, often characterized by their minerality and freshness, are perfect for accompanying light summer meals. The Loire Valley offers a fine selection of these wines, from Muscadet to dry Montlouis and Savennières. Serve between 10° and 12°C to fully appreciate their aromas.
Sparkling wines : Go for Extra Brut and Non Dosé
For lovers of sparkling wines, summer is the perfect time to turn to champagnes and crémants with less or no dosage. Forget overly vinous champagnes or semi-dry crémants, and opt for extra brut or brut nature champagnes, without tirage liqueur. Similarly, blanc de blancs and blended rosés are better choices than certain over-structured blancs de noirs or rosés. Serve them "frappé" between 8° and 10°C for a refreshing, sparkling experience.
Conclusion: Wines for every summer moment
To sum up, summer is a season rich in possibilities for wine lovers. Whether you're a rosé fan, a red enthusiast or a white devotee, there are perfect options for every moment of the day. Don't hesitate to think outside the box and explore new pairings to enrich your summer meals and make the most of the beautiful season.