When it comes to enjoying a drink out-of-doors, the beverage that makes most mouths water is white wine. Cool, crisp and refreshing, there’s hardly a better way to celebrate the summer season.
With so many wines to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down. Here are a few wonderful, and affordable, options that you can find and order online, including recommended food pairings:
Le Citronnier 2011
This French white blend is filled with lemon fruit flavour and a bright, zesty finish. Made from crisp Colombard and tropical Sauvignon Blanc grapes, you can easily enjoy this wine on a day-to-day basis. Similar to a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, this wine is perfect for sipping on the patio while you get ready to enjoy a salad and fish or chicken on the grill.
Limited Release Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011
This wine is a favourite among wine drinkers. According to the Laithwaite’s online rating system, 14 out of 15 would recommend it. It doesn’t hurt that it’s a fantastic value! This New Zealand wine is the result of a surplus Sauvignon at an unnamed winery. In short, you’re getting a premium wine for a bargain price. Serve with seafood at a special celebration or dinner party.
Don Cayetano Chardonnay 2011
This wonderful Chardonnay is from a family estate in Chile. Their current winery was built just two decades ago, but the family arrived in Chile in the 19th century. Chief winemaker Christian Rojas is behind this fresh, fruity wine that’s alive with pineapple, citrus, fruit and melon flavours. While the above wines go well with fish, this creamy Chardonnay also pairs nicely with pork or roast chicken.
Gran TarapacĂ¡ Viognier 2009
Another delicious wine from Chile, this vibrant Viognier comes from TarapacĂ¡’s hill-top vineyards, the perfect location for producing the unmistakable spicy fruit flavour of Viognier. Pair this with a curry or pork dish and your taste buds will thank you!
Alessandro Gallici Pinot Grigio 2010
When it comes to Pinot Grigio, a good choice is from –not surprisingly- Italy. This wine is great for any type of dinner and likely to please any palate, given the balance between intense fruit flavour and freshness. The grapes come from two top vineyard areas: the Colli Orientali DOC and the Grave DOC, resulting in a deliciously drinkable wine. Pasta and seafood go well with this one.