Enjoy The Season With These Celebration-Worthy Wines
Days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and wait – is that sunshine I see? Oh, this calls for a party.
This is one of my favourite seasons to plan wine parties: there’s a lightness to the energy, feel and scope of the event; people just wanna have fun, loosen their ties, wear open-toed shoes and breathe in the newly-warmed-up air.
Of course, wines should reflect that buoyant attitude. Whites, rosés and juicy reds that have been waiting on deck all winter are finally ready to step up and shine. Perfect with warm weather fare – think fresh seafood, picnics and barbecue – these wines are easy-peasy picks for perfect parties every time.
Robert Mondavi Fumé Blanc, California, $23
A Sauvignon Blanc (with just the teensiest splash of Semillon), that has been mostly barrel fermented and aged in oak to give richness, texture and weight. Lemon curd, caramelized topical fruit and grilled thyme flavours make for a complex and tasty white to go. Goes well with rare tuna, vegetarian sushi or smoked salmon with creme fraiche and dill.
Big House “The Siren” Rosé, $4
WAIT! Stay with me. Wine-in-a-can is the next big thing, seriously trending in the US and quickly catching fire in Canada. Super cute packaging that’s perfect for beach-themed parties, pool side wedding celebrations and the company picnic, the bonus is the wine’s actually good and stays fresh thanks to the air-tight can. This rosé is fruity and fun with delicate notes of red berry fruit. It’s an easy sipper on its own, or pairs brilliantly with cheese plates, spring rolls or turkey burgers.
Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Villages, France $14
Not to be confused with Beaujolais Nouveau, Villages is the next tier up and offers a bit more weight, adding notes of black pepper spice to the juicy strawberry and cherry fruit flavours. A picnic staple, this is a terrific option to serve with chicken salad sandwiches, grilled sausage or simple pâté and charcuterie plates.
Henry of Pelham “Cuvée Catharine” Rosé Brut, Niagara $30
Henry of Pelham is arguably one of the best producers in the country for traditional method bubbles. Made in the same style as Champagne, this dry rosé sparker is roughly two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay and aged more than two years in the bottle before release. This shows zesty notes of red apple, cherry and orange. Dry and crisp, this is an elegant option for festive celebrations.
If you have questions about picking out wines for your next event, drop The Wine Sisters a line at drinkwithus@thewinesisters.com.