A Guide to Pairing Summer-Friendly Wines with Summer Fruits

Summer is a time for sun-kissed days, breezy nights, and the vibrant flavors of fresh fruits and crisp wines. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or enjoying a lazy afternoon on the patio, the right wine can elevate the season’s delicious bounty to new heights. Join me on a delightful journey as we explore the best wine and fruit pairings that celebrate the essence of summer. Plus, for the adventurous among us, I’ll share a refreshing sangria recipe that will be the star of your summer soirées.

SOMM&SOMM Recommends Berries and Bubbles

Strawberries and Rosé

There’s something undeniably romantic about strawberries and rosé. The juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries complements the delicate floral notes and crisp acidity of a dry rosé. Look for a Provence-style rosé with hints of strawberry, peach, and citrus for a match made in heaven.

Raspberries and Sparkling Wine

Raspberries, with their tart and tangy profile, are perfect companions to the effervescence of sparkling wine. A brut Champagne or a refreshing Prosecco will enhance the bright acidity of the raspberries, creating a harmonious balance. For an extra touch of elegance, drop a few raspberries into your glass and let them dance in the bubbles.

SOMM&SOMM Recommends Stone Fruits and White Wines

Peaches and Riesling

The luscious, juicy sweetness of a perfectly ripe peach is beautifully mirrored by the vibrant fruitiness of a Riesling. A well-balanced Riesling, with its notes of apricot, honey, and citrus, can highlight the natural sweetness of peaches while offering a refreshing finish.

Apricots and Viognier

Apricots, with their slightly tart and aromatic nature, pair wonderfully with the rich and fragrant qualities of Viognier. This full-bodied white wine, often with flavors of peach, apricot, and floral undertones, enhances the fruit’s natural character, creating a symphony of summer flavors.

SOMM&SOMM Recommends Melons and Crisp Whites

Watermelon and Sauvignon Blanc

Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit—juicy, refreshing, and slightly sweet. Its subtle flavor is beautifully uplifted by the zesty, citrusy notes of Sauvignon Blanc. Opt for a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with its signature grassy and tropical fruit profile for a delightful pairing.

Cantaloupe and Pinot Grigio

Cantaloupe’s mellow sweetness and slightly musky aroma are complemented by the light, crisp, and refreshing nature of Pinot Grigio. The wine’s hints of green apple, pear, and citrus create a delicate balance that enhances the fruit’s flavor without overpowering it.

SOMM&SOMM Recommends Adventurous Pairings for the Bold

Pineapple and Gewürztraminer

For those who love bold and exotic flavors, pairing pineapple with Gewürztraminer is a must-try. This aromatic white wine, with its lychee, rose, and spice notes, beautifully balances the sweet-tart profile of pineapple, creating an explosion of tropical flavors.

Mango and Albariño

Mangoes are rich, sweet, and bursting with tropical goodness. Pairing them with Albariño, a Spanish white wine known for its high acidity and bright citrus flavors, creates a vibrant and refreshing combination that highlights the best of both.

Sun-Kissed Summer Sangria

Ingredients:

– 1 bottle of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

– 1/4 cup brandy

– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)

– 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)

– 1 orange, thinly sliced

– 1 lemon, thinly sliced

– 1 lime, thinly sliced

– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

– 1 cup fresh blueberries

– 1 peach, pitted and sliced

– 1 to 2 cups sparkling water or club soda

– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Stir well to mix.

2. Add the orange, lemon, and lime slices to the pitcher, followed by the strawberries, pineapple, blueberries, and peach slices.

3. Stir gently to combine the fruit with the liquid. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water or club soda to the pitcher for a refreshing fizz. Stir gently to combine.

5. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice, making sure to include some of the fruit in each glass.

6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!

Pairing summer wines with summer fruits is an art that brings out the best in both. The vibrant flavors of fresh fruits combined with the nuanced profiles of carefully selected wines can create unforgettable taste experiences. Whether you’re indulging in a classic combination or exploring adventurous pairings, the joy of summer is captured in every sip and bite. So, gather your friends, pick your favorite fruits and wines, and celebrate the season with these delightful pairings. Cheers to a summer filled with sunshine and sips of perfection! 🥂