The heat calls for more refreshing drinks, so for wine lovers, whites, rosé and sparkling wines can always be a good option, provided they are served at a cool temperature. However, reds can also be an excellent choice, as long as they are equally light. The reds with soft tannins and light-bodied are great to accompany the fresh summer dishes.

Let's see then which are the best wine varieties for the summer.

Pinot Noir

Although Pinot Noir wines are normally red, they are quite light, fruity and smooth, ideal for the summer. Therefore, when buying wines from this variety, choose those with red fruit aroma, because it gives a fresher mouthfeel.

Sauvignon Blanc

These white wines are also light, fresh and fruity. Note that the lighter the color of the wine, the younger it is, and the darker, the older or fuller the wine is. It’s up to you to choose which one you prefer. Remember that these characteristics are not related to the quality of the wine.

Served at a lower temperature (between 6º and 8ºC), this wine combines perfectly with seafood and octopus, for example.

Alvarinho

This variety produces delicate and fragrant white wines, although with a high amount of tannins. It has floral and fruity notes, mainly citrus, making its flavor fresher.

They go well with many recipes, including fish, cod, sardines, seafood as well as pork, poultry and rice.

Rosés

Rosé wines are very versatile and, of course, perfect for summer. Lighter than red wines, they harmonize with many dishes, whether fish or meat.

Photo by Nicole Klesy from Pixabay