from the vine
toast to summer.
by: SAMUEL BLACK
Break out the grill and hose down the lawn chairs! It’s time for grillin’ and chillin’ on the back patio with friends and family and there’s nothing that can start the summer like a tasty barbeque. If you enjoy flipping the burgers with one hand while holding your favorite Chardonnay or Pinot in the other, then read on. I have some of my own favorite summer wines to share with you and all for under $20! The list I’ve compiled below will be of help in planning your next outdoor feast. Whether you’re serving chicken, fish, pork or steaks, there’s a wine for any dish although I have to say, over the years I’ve found that pairing wines with barbequed food can be a little challenging.
Maybe it’s the varying wood flavors or simply the heat of summer that make selecting a “cool” summer wine tricky. What I have learned over time, though, is that the lighter, fruitier wines seem to compliment most barbeque menus the best.
For the record, don’t fall for the “you get what you pay for” thinking when it comes to wine. Just because a wine costs more doesn’t mean it’s better, more full bodied or of superior quality. Spending a bundle of cash on a good wine isn’t necessary and the following list of really good wines prove it. The price is right for these perfect barbeque wines. Happy grilling!
Mandolin 2005 Chardonnay
California $9.99
Lush tropical core balanced by crisp acidity
Robert Mondavi 2005 Fume Blanc
California $14.99
Bright citrus, melon and floral character with a silky finish
Dr. Burklin Wolf 2005 Riesling
Germany $19.99
Apple characteristics, medium to light sweetness with a nectarine finish
Anselmi 2005 San Vincenzo
Italy $12.99
Blend of Soave and Chardonnay grapes
Frog Hill Rose 2005
South Africa $11.99
Refreshing lingering taste of wild strawberry with a cranberry finish
Mandolin Pinot Noir
California $11.99
Bright cherry and raspberry with a hint of spice, leather and cedar
Gnarly Head 2005 Zinfandel
California $8.99
Boasts layers of blackberries, cassis and liquorice
Lawson Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
California $8.99
Aromas of black cherry, blackberry and spice
Samuel Black is a wine consultant. He does educational classes, special events, and private wine parties, wine and food preparations, and lectures on wine
