Most of our summer plans have been cancelled because of Covid-19 and that’s definitely a bummer. That being said, the warm weather, sunsets, hot summer nights, new recipes to try out and BBQ dinners ahead aren’t canceled. During times like these, it’s especially important to focus on the things that we are lucky enough to have access to and enjoy. For that reason, we asked our favorite food and wellness guru, certified biochemist and wine connoisseur Charlotte Skye, to curate a list of her favorite wines to enjoy as the weather gets warmer. Read up to find out more about her favorite summer wines !
For more recipes, tips and tricks, and wellness advice follow @lifeofchaskye on Instagram
Parés Baltà Pink Cava
This sparkling rose is the perfect add-on for a celebratory picnic or a zoom graduation party. Light and not overly sweet, so you can enjoy it midday without feeling terrible in the evening. At a great price point, so you can celebrate without fear of breaking the bank. The flavor has hints of grapefruit in it which can be a fun twist on the classic Apérol Spritz !
Louis Bouillot Perle d’Aurore Crémant de Bourgogne
If you want to impress your in-laws without splurging too much, this is truly a hidden gem. This elegant and equally delicious sparkling rose is so good, nobody would ever think that it’s on the “cheaper” side. It’s has a floral taste to it, with hints of peonies and roses, which is a great pairing with a light summer dish like smoked salmon with dill.
Sayuri Nigori
A little saké never hurt nobody, or maybe it did — since this one is so incredibly creamy and delicious, it’s hard to stop once you’ve had a sip! Unfiltered, which makes it more milky and is what gives your mouth such a soft and smooth feeling after each sip- like drinking into a cloud. Pair with cute sushi dinner or with any light, fresh dish.
Lou Pigna Bandol 2018
We love a full mouth experience (no pun intended) and this rose is a lot fuller than they typically tend to go for. It has a similar texture to that of an American Chardonnay and is less acidy than most roses. It’s great for cocktail hour because it tastes very good on its own, but can also be paired with seafood such as oysters. If you want something that is different from your typical rose this one is great !
Famille Bourgeois Sancerre Les Jeunes Vignes 2018
Perfect for a fancy picnic at the park . This one is a bit pricier than the other wines on this list, so I’d consider it for a special occasion. A little floral and quite light yet still has a deep flavor to it which would make it a great pairing with cheese and baguette. Bonus points for the twist cap because it seems bottle openers are always left behind!
Domaine Vacheron Sancerre 2017
This one is like the cashmere sweater of rosés. Higher in price but worth the investment. Delicate, smooth and not too fatty and incredibly versatile in terms of what you can pair it with. The perfect present for your wine connoisseur uncle who disses on rosés all the time. This one will change his mind !
Miraval Côtes de Provence
This wine is the product of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s marriage, and we’re so happy that it remains in full custody even though they Hollywood couple has announced their plan to divorce. Light and fruity, this one is a perfect everyday kind of wine. With hints of citrus and raspberries, great to have on its own for happy hour or even with desert like sorbet or cake .
Domaine St-Jacques 2019
The most “budget-friendly” wine on this list, Domain St-Jacques always wins in terms of quality/price. Fruity and light, a little acidy but still nicely balanced. Great addition to a watermelon and feta salad. Can also be nice with a platter of charcuterie and cheese. If you are hosting — a couple of bottle of these and you’re set for a good time !