Red wine in summer

Tips for a refreshing experience

Even though red wine is frequently thought of as suitable for the autumn or winter, there’s no reason you can’t sip on this classy libation throughout the summer. Red wine may be a delicious and cooling option for warm weather if used properly.

Choose a light red wine

Red wines that can be enjoyed in the summer are those with a lighter body and less alcohol. Look for grapes with a lighter mouthfeel and fruitier flavors, such as Pinot Noir, Gamay, Zweigelt, Cinsault, Zinfandel,  or Grenache. These wines typically have a lighter flavor and are perfect also in summer.

Gamay (Beaujolais Nouveau)

Fresh aromas, owed both to the production process – fermentation takes between 6 and 8 weeks – and to the grape variety (Gamay), which provides notes of red fruits, combine to create a playful character that uplifts your mood. You can find it here.

Zweigelt

Villa Vinea has one truly interesting Zweigelt, but it will be a slightly mature one. However it is still appropriate to be enjoyed towards the end of summer. The color is dark ruby, with a crimson edge, and the aroma brings a mix of cherries, sour cherries, and sweet wood.

Pinot Noir

Thesaurus Pinot Noir Amadoc ( DOC) is delicate, lively, juicy, it is easy to drink, even on summer evenings. And the aromatic profile respects the specificity of the grape variety, always offering notes of cherry, raspberry, dried leaves, tobacco, and a hint of spices.

Chill Your Red Wine

Contrary to popular perception, cooling some red wines throughout the summer is totally appropriate. To slightly lower the temperature of your bottle of red wine before serving, place it in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. It will taste better and be more refreshing on a hot day if the wine is chilled. Avoid over-chilling since too-cold temperatures might dull the flavors.

Experiment with Wine Cocktails

Consider adding red wine to energizing wine cocktails for a unique twist. For instance, a well-liked alternative is Sangria, which blends red wine, fresh fruit, and a dash of citrus or sparkling water. A wine spritzer, which combines red wine with soda water or another flavored sparkling beverage, is an additional choice. These mixtures offer a bright and hydrating experience.

Sangria

Perhaps the most common wine cocktail is Sangria. With an old recipe, it is today the most beloved summer cocktail based on red wine.

How to prepare it and ingredients

• The original Sangria will only have red wine, spices, sugar (optional) if you prefer it sweeter.
• Create a some simple syrup. Mix sugar and water in a ratio of 1:1. While preparing the rest, let it chill.
• Peel and squeeze the juice of 3 lemons and oranges.
• Add the citrus juice and peels to the wine (1l) that has been poured into a large pot.
• Add the syrup and stir everything. In addition you might add 30ml of brandy.

Must be served chill so make sure to put it in the fridge.

Serve in Appropriate Glassware

The appropriate glassware can improve how much you enjoy red wine. Choosing larger, wider-bowled glasses will help the wine breathe and unleash its flavors. This will enhance your sensory experience and increase how much you appreciate the wine in general. Additionally, insulated tumblers or stemless wine glasses can support preserving the wine’s temperature for longer times, particularly when used outside.

Food pairing can help

Your whole dining experience may be improved by serving red wine with lighter, summer-inspired fare. Think of serving your red wine with seafood meals like grilled salmon or tuna, fresh salads, or grilled veggies. These summertime treats’ flavors can be enhanced and complemented by the wine’s acidity and fruitiness.

Search for wine tastings

Throughout the summer, wineries and wine bars frequently arrange events where you may broaden your horizons and taste a variety of red wines.

Don’t limit drinking red wine to just cold-weather events. By using these suggestions, you can enjoy the fragrances and flavors of red wine while remaining energized during the summer. Try lighter styles, gently chill your red wine, experiment with wine cocktails, use appropriate glassware, match with seasonal foods, and attend outdoor tastings. Even on the hottest days of the year, red wine can be enjoyed for a variety of occasions. Cheers to a wonderful summer red wine experience!

Text and pics: IBMagazine