It’s August. It’s sweltering in much of the country (though downright pleasant here at F&WT HQ in Downtown LA), and it’s time to drink some wine. But just what wines are required for hot August nights (and days)?
- Vinho Verde. This light, crisp, spritzy wine from Portugal is indispensable for drinking poolside. Plus, at around 10% alcohol it’s a bit lighter on the booze quotient for extended afternoon sipping.
- Aligote. The lesser-known white grape of Burgundy is full of ripe, tart green apple flavors and aromas. The wines rarely see new oak, ensuring a refreshing and not overly unctuous beverage.
- Getariako Txakolina. A wine which single-handedly saved the letter X from extinction is another lightly bubbly, tart Iberian white wine. Once difficult to find and very inexpensive, Txakoli is now available at most wine shops at higher prices, but good values can still be had.
- Gamay. Insisting on a red wine despite the summer heat? Fine. Gamay, the main red grape of Beaujolais that’s also found in France’s Loire Valley and in California, is excellent when served cellar temperature (55-60 degrees). Full of blueberry fruit and light, peppery spice, Gamay is delicious with burgers, sausages, and any other grillable you can think of.
So what’re you waiting for? Throw on a swimsuit, grab a bottle, and get drinking. Summer’s almost over!
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