The World of Summer Wines

As the warmth of summer envelops us once again, it brings with it the promise of long, lazy afternoons and evenings spent in the company of friends and family. And what better way to complement these moments than with a glass of wine that captures the essence of the season? This year, we’ve traveled the globe through the lens of wine, uncovering bottles that promise not just a sip, but an experience. From the rolling hills of France to the vibrant landscapes of Argentina, each wine on our list is a testament to the diversity and richness of the world’s vineyards.

The Excellence of Domaine Joliet, Fixin Premier Cru Clos de la Perrier Blanc 2020

Type: White

Origin: Burgundy, France

Tasting notes: This exquisite wine demonstrates a great balance with good acidity, indicative of its high-quality, young Chardonnay vines from the esteemed Clos de la Perrier vineyard. For generations, wines from this vineyard have been celebrated as some of the finest in all of Burgundy, offering a taste that is both profound and refreshing.

Pairing suggestions: Its vibrant acidity makes it a perfect companion for seafood dishes, goat cheese salads, or a simple, elegant chicken piccata.

Occasion: Ideal for a sophisticated dinner party or a serene evening on the porch, this wine is sure to elevate any summer gathering.

Discover the Delights of Domaine Christophe Petit Chablis 2022

As we delve deeper into the realm of summer wines, the Domaine Christophe Petit Chablis 2022 emerges as a beacon of lightness and refreshment, perfectly embodying the season’s carefree spirit.

Type: White

Origin: Chablis, France

Vinification: Crafted with meticulous care, this wine is vinified entirely in stainless steel, which preserves the grape’s purest expressions and imparts a pristine clarity to the wine.

Tasting notes: The Domaine Christophe Petit Chablis is a harmonious blend of lightweight structure and roundness, bursting with ripe, juicy fruits that lead to a bright and lively finish. Its stainless-steel vinification ensures that each sip offers a clean, focused taste of the unique terroir of Chablis.

Pairing suggestions: This wine’s vibrant acidity and fresh fruit profile make it an excellent partner for a variety of dishes. Enjoy it with fresh oysters, kabobs on the grill, or a simple grilled chicken for a delightful summer meal.

Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or enjoying a tranquil sunset, the Domaine Christophe Petit Chablis 2022 is a versatile choice that brings a touch of class to any moment.

Savor the Organic Elegance of Von Donabaum Grüner Veltliner 2022

Continuing our journey through summer wine discoveries, we venture into the lush vineyards of Mittelburgenland, Austria, to spotlight the Von Donabaum Grüner Veltliner 2022. This selection is a testament to the beauty of organic winemaking and the unique qualities of Austrian viticulture.

Type: White

Origin: Mittelburgenland, Austria

Vinification: Embracing the natural rhythms of winemaking, this Grüner Veltliner is a product of spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel, followed by a three-month refinement on the lees in stainless steel tanks. This careful process, coupled with the exclusive use of organic grapes, results in a wine of distinct purity and character.

Tasting notes: The wine showcases a lovely array of pretty fruit flavors, underscored by a vibrant acidity and a subtle minerality, characteristic of the Grüner Veltliner varietal. The organic grapes contribute to its clean, expressive profile, making it a versatile and food-friendly option.

Pairing suggestions: Its ability to pair well with a wide range of dishes makes this wine a favorite for dinner parties and gatherings. It shines alongside dishes such as fresh summer salads, grilled seafood, or even spicy Asian cuisine, enhancing the flavors with its crisp fruitiness.

Occasion: Perfect for those who appreciate the art of pairing wine with food, the Von Donabaum Grüner Veltliner 2022 is ideal for culinary explorations on warm summer evenings or as a refreshing accompaniment to a leisurely lunch.

Experience the Authenticity of Jean Pascal Aubron Folle Blanche 2021

Our exploration of summer’s finest wines takes us to the renowned French wine region of Nantes in the Loire Valley, where the Jean Pascal Aubron Folle Blanche 2021 stands as a testament to traditional winemaking and authentic flavor.

Type: White

Origin: Nantes, Loire Valley, France

Vinification: True to the ethos of minimal intervention, this wine is the result of spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel, followed by a four-month maturation on the lees in stainless steel tanks. This process, along with the decision against fining and the minimal use of filtering, ensures a wine that is as natural and unadulterated as possible.

Tasting notes: The Jean Pascal Aubron Folle Blanche 2021 is a prime example of the terroir of the Loire Valley and the purity of its grape variety. It offers a crisp, clean palate with a lively acidity and a bouquet of delicate white flowers and fresh citrus fruits. The wine’s minimal filtering allows its natural character and complexity to shine through, presenting a truly authentic tasting experience.

Pairing suggestions: Its freshness and vibrancy make it an excellent complement to shellfish, light poultry dishes, and soft cheeses. It’s also enjoyable on its own, serving as a perfect aperitif to start a summer evening.

Occasion: Ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking a genuine expression of Loire Valley terroir, this wine is best enjoyed in settings where simplicity and elegance are cherished — be it a casual outdoor gathering or a more formal dinner under the stars.

Discover the Pure Charm of Ca La Bionda Valpolicella Classico 2022

Our summer wine journey takes us next to the picturesque hills of the Valpolicella region, where the Ca La Bionda Valpolicella Classico 2022 emerges as a tribute to the art of organic viticulture and the rich winemaking heritage of Italy.

Type: Red

Origin: Valpolicella, Italy

Composition: Crafted from a careful selection of Corvina and Rondinella grapes, this wine embodies the quintessence of Valpolicella Classico, offering a glimpse into the soul of its land and the passion of its people.

Vinification: With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, the grapes are farmed organically, ensuring that every bottle is a pure expression of the varietals and the terroir. The wine’s fermentation and maturation processes are designed to highlight the natural, juicy fruit flavors, resulting in a wine that is both clean and light.

Tasting notes: The Ca La Bionda Valpolicella Classico 2022 captivates with its bright, juicy fruit flavors, enveloped in a structure that is both elegant and accessible. Its organic origins contribute to a clarity and purity of taste, with a very pretty profile that makes it a joy to drink.

Pairing suggestions: This Valpolicella Classico is exceptionally food-friendly, pairing beautifully with a range of dishes from charcuterie and cheese platters to grilled vegetables and light pasta dishes. Its versatility makes it a perfect match for the casual, eclectic dining that epitomizes summer gatherings.

Occasion: Ideal for an afternoon barbecue or an evening dinner al fresco, this wine is a celebration of summer’s laid-back lifestyle, offering a moment of pure enjoyment and relaxation.

Please drink responsibly.

Kathleen Todaro

Kathy Todaro, who writes the wine column, grew up in Stone Harbor. She has been the wine expert at Fred’s Avalon Liquors for more than 20 years. She resides in Medford and Avalon with her husband and two children.

Previous
Previous

Times Talk

Next
Next

Outdoor Entertaining: Sizzle Into Summer — Elevate the Backyard Barbecue