How to Choose the Perfect Wine for Your Summer Dishes: Tips and Tricks

Summer is the season for al fresco dining, barbecues and light dinners. Choosing the right wine can enhance the flavours of your dishes and turn a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience. Below, we offer a complete guide to selecting the perfect wine to accompany your summer dishes, with practical tips and specific recommendations.

1. White Wines: Freshness and Lightness

White wines are the kings of summer thanks to their freshness and lightness. These wines are perfect to accompany salads, fish, seafood and vegetable-based dishes.

• Sauvignon Blanc: This wine is known for its citrus and herbal aromas, which pair perfectly with fresh salads and seafood. Try a Sauvignon Blanc with a tomato and mozzarella salad or with fish ceviche.
• Albariño: Originating from the Galicia region of Spain, Albariño is a white wine with fruity notes and refreshing acidity. It is ideal for pairing with seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or steamed mussels.
• Chardonnay: If you prefer a white wine with a little more body, Chardonnay is a great choice, especially if it's lightly barrel-aged. It pairs well with grilled chicken dishes, fish in creamy sauces, or even light pastas.

2. Rosé Wines: Versatility for Summer

Rosé wine is the perfect ally for a wide variety of summer dishes. Its versatile profile allows it to accompany everything from appetizers to main dishes.

• Rosé de Provence: This type of French rosé is dry, fresh and with a light touch of red fruits. It is excellent for pairing with summer salads, beef carpaccio or grilled fish dishes.
• Tempranillo Rosado: A Spanish rosé made from the Tempranillo grape, with a slightly more robust flavour. Pairs well with barbecue dishes, vegetable pizzas or even paellas.
• Grenache Rosé: A full-bodied rosé, perfect for richer dishes such as white meats, sausages or even Mediterranean dishes with olives and capers.

3. Red Wines: Light and Plush

Although summer is often associated with white and rosé wines, red wines should not be ruled out. Light red wines, served slightly chilled, can be a perfect pairing for grilled meats and heartier dishes.

• Pinot Noir: A light red wine with notes of cherry and spices, which pairs perfectly with white meats, roast chicken and more substantial fish dishes such as tuna or salmon.
• Garnacha: Garnacha is a variety that produces fruity, medium-bodied wines, perfect for grilled lamb dishes, roasted vegetables or even gourmet pizzas.
• Beaujolais: Produced from the Gamay grape, this French wine is light and fruity, ideal for drinking slightly chilled. It is perfect with charcuterie plates, soft cheeses or a chicken salad.

4. Sparkling Wines: The Festive Touch

Sparkling wines are a must at summer celebrations. They are refreshing, bubbly and add a festive touch to any meal.

• Cava: The quintessential Spanish sparkling wine, with a vibrant acidity that makes it perfect to accompany tapas, seafood or even fattier dishes such as patatas bravas or fried calamari.
• Champagne: The French classic that adds elegance to any occasion. Ideal for pairing with oysters, sushi, or creamy cheeses like Brie.
• Prosecco: A sweeter, lighter Italian sparkling wine, perfect for aperitifs, fresh fruit, or summer desserts like fruit tart.

5. Practical Tips for Serving Wine in Summer

• Serving Temperature: In summer, it is crucial to serve wines at the right temperature to maximise their flavour. White and rosé wines are best enjoyed between 7-12°C, while light reds can be served between 14-16°C.
• Decanting: Although decanting is more common with red wines, some complex whites such as Chardonnay also benefit from this practice, allowing the aromas to develop better.
• Pairing of Contrasts: Don't be afraid to experiment with contrasting pairings, such as a sparkling wine with spicy dishes or a light red wine with fish. Sometimes, less conventional combinations can pleasantly surprise you.

6. Conclusion: Choose According to Your Taste and the Food

In the end, the best wine choice is one you enjoy. Use this guide as a starting point, but feel free to try different combinations and find your perfect pairing for every summer occasion.

Whether it's an al fresco lunch, a barbecue with friends, or a romantic sunset dinner, the right wine can elevate any meal. Cheers!