Savoring Red Wine in the Summer: A Seasonal Delight
As the sun blazes and temperatures rise, many wine enthusiasts might instinctively reach for a chilled white or a refreshing rosé. However, summer is also a splendid time to enjoy red wine, with its rich flavors and diverse profiles offering a delightful contrast to the season's heat. Whether you’re a dedicated red wine aficionado or just exploring new seasonal beverages, there are plenty of reasons and ways to savor red wine during the warmer months.
Red wines, when chosen thoughtfully, can be just as refreshing and enjoyable as their cooler counterparts. Light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Grenache are perfect for summer sipping, offering bright acidity and vibrant fruit flavors that pair wonderfully with grilled foods and summer salads. Additionally, slightly chilling your red wine – yes, you read that right – can enhance its refreshing qualities, making it an excellent choice for a summer evening on the patio or a picnic in the park. Embrace the unique pleasure of red wine in the summer, and discover how these robust, complex flavors can elevate your warm-weather gatherings.
2020 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
This brand-new Silver Oak vintage just launched August 3rd, with captivating notes of cedar and concentrated red fruit character that dance gracefully on the palate. Aged 24 months in American oak, this new release is perfectly timed to the end of summer and encroachment of fall, making it a great bottle to enjoy now or add to a collection where it will continue to improve through 2042 given proper cellaring conditions.
Set along the westernmost boundaries of Paso Robles, California, surrounded by the wild, and wide-open Santa Lucia Mountain Range of the Central Coast, Halter Ranch is a 2,700-acre organic nature estate dedicated to land, art, and legendary terroir-driven wine made with the finest organic grapes. The emphasis on quality in the vineyard is complemented by a commitment to environmentally responsible grape-growing practices.
A blend of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 13% Mourvèdre, 2% Tannat, the 2020 CDP has aromas of raspberry, ripe plum, and a touch of Herbes de Provence. The entry is bright and fresh, driven by red and blue fruits. The midpalate is rich and layered with flavors of bing cherry, olallieberry, and pomegranate. The wine finishes with a soft tannin structure, making it an easy-drinking, great food pairing wine. Pair with pork chops, lamb, sausage and meat-based pastas.
Sonoma-Cutrer has been crafting wines since 1981 in the esteemed Russian River Valley growing region of Sonoma County, California. Today, their female-led winemaking team produces sustainable certified wines.
As this wine is poured into the glass, you will notice its beautiful, dark ruby red color. The first impression starts in the nose with intense blackberry fruit aromas, cola and cassis jam followed by a touch of vanilla and tobacco accented with hints of baking spice and red licorice. The wine is richly textured and balanced with a beautiful brightness. Flavors of black cherry, tobacco and sweet barrel spice shine throughout. With fine tannins that round out the long, smooth finish, it is sure to be a favorite of pinot noir lovers.
Savor the smooth and velvety texture of this wine, perfect for complementing your slow-cooked BBQ meats or smoked grilled cheese/ cheese alternative. Pour yourself a glass while you're cooking, and let the remaining bottle breathe, allowing its delicate spices to mingle with the atmosphere, enhancing your dining experience.
Crafted to highlight its unique terroir, this Sonoma Coast gem is a true delight. Best enjoyed with your favorite live music played by a couple of friends, alongside a vegan burger or juicy steak, its flavors will complement every bite. Best with savory sides like grilled shiitake mushrooms or a medley of dark vegetables for an extra layer of richness, this pinot noir has a character that will intrigue each guest.