The Best Wines to Drink This Summer

When the weather heats up, your wine should cool things down. The best summer wines are light, crisp, and refreshing. Perfect for patio sipping, grilling in the backyard, or relaxing on a beach day. Whether you’re into white wines, rosé, or even chilled reds, there’s a perfect bottle waiting for you.

Here are five must-try wines that capture the spirit of summer:

1. Rosé Wine: The Classic Summer Favorite

Why it's perfect: Rosé is the go-to summer wine for a reason. Dry styles like those from Provence offer crisp acidity with flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and citrus.

Food pairing: Great with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, seafood, or enjoyed on its own.

Search tip: Look for “dry rosé wines for summer” or “best rosé under $20” if you’re shopping online.

2. Sauvignon Blanc: Zesty and Refreshing

Why it works: This white wine brings bright citrusy flavors and mouthwatering acidity. It’s ideal for hot days and light meals.

Top regions: Marlborough in New Zealand, California, and Sancerre in France.

Pair it with: Goat cheese, grilled shrimp, summer pastas, or anything with lemon.

3. Chillable Red Wines: Yes, Red Can Be Cool

Best picks: Gamay such as Beaujolais, Pinot Noir, or Lambrusco.

Why it’s different: These light-bodied red wines can be slightly chilled at around 55 to 60°F and still show off juicy fresh fruit flavors without feeling heavy.

Perfect for: BBQ, burgers, pizza night, or just something different from the usual whites.

4. Albariño: Spain’s Summer Secret

Flavor profile: Crisp, aromatic, and often a bit salty. Albariño tastes like a coastal breeze in a glass.

Pairings: Shellfish, ceviche, grilled white fish, or sushi.

Pro tip: Serve it around 45°F for peak refreshment.

5. Sparkling Wines: Make Any Day a Celebration

Options to try: Prosecco, Cava, Champagne, or Pet-Nat.

Why it works: Bubbles go with everything. Brunch, popcorn, oysters, even fried chicken. A chilled sparkling wine adds instant celebration to any day.

Looking for variety? Try a sparkling wine flight at your local wine bar or create one at home.

How to Serve Summer Wines

Keep it chilled but not ice cold. Aim for:

White wines and rosé: 45 to 50°F

Chillable reds: 55 to 60°F

Sparkling wines: 40 to 45°F

You can use a wine cooler sleeve or keep bottles in the fridge for about two hours before serving.

Final Pour: Wine and Summer Are a Perfect Pair

Summer wines are all about good vibes, fresh flavors, and laid back moments. Stock up on bottles that suit the season and your mood and don’t be afraid to try something new. Whether it’s a cold glass of rosé or a fizzy sparkling wine, the best summer wines make every sip feel like a little vacation.