The summer is the best time to enjoy starry nights, long days of sunshine, and outdoor meals. Which wine is best to enjoy these moments with? Finding the perfect wine to drink in summer can be a difficult task. Not all wines can be sipped under the hot August sun. Some guidelines can help you choose the perfect wine for a hot summer day.
The summer months can present a challenge for wine storage. Temperatures above 30 degrees can damage the wine and accelerate its ageing.
How to store wine in the summer so that it retains its quality.
- Store the bottles at the correct temperature.
- The ideal temperature for wine storage is between 12 and 15° Celsius. If you do not have a cellar, consider purchasing a wine cooler. This will keep the wine at its ideal temperature and preserve its organoleptic qualities.
- Avoid direct light
- Wine can be damaged by direct sunlight, which alters its aromas and tastes. To protect your bottles from UV rays, store them in a dark area or cover them with cloth.
- Horizontal position
- Storing bottles horizontally ensures that the wine is in constant contact with the cork. This prevents oxidation and keeps the cork moist to keep air out of the bottle.
- Proper Humidity
- The ideal humidity for wine storage is between 60% and 80%. Too much humidity can lead to mould growth, while too little moisture can allow air into the cork.
How to drink red wine in the summer
Red wine has traditionally been a winter drink, perfect for pairing with hearty and rich dishes. Red wine is a great summer beverage but with a few adjustments.
- Serve Red Wine Cool
- It’s not very common to serve red wine slightly chilled, but it can be a nice surprise in the summer. Depending on its body, red wine can be enhanced by temperatures between 14 and 20 degrees Celsius.
- Select Light Red Wines
- Choose lighter reds with less tannin and structure. Barbera d’Alba, with its fruity aromas and refreshing acidity, is perfect for the summer.
Red wine recommendations for summer
This list includes red wines you can enjoy even on hot summer days.
- Boroli Langhe Nebbiolo: This wine is characterized by aromas of cherry and spices. It has a good structure and freshness and is ideal to accompany summer dishes.
- Lambrusco di Sorbara: A light and sparkling red wine with notes such as strawberry and raspberry.
- Valpolicella Classico: An easy-to-drink wine with cherry aromas.
- Pinot Noir: Pinot Noir’s lightness and aromas of red fruits make it a great wine to serve cool with summer dishes.
Summer foods like succulent meats and fish, colourful and fresh pasta salads, and light and tasty vegetables can be paired with red wines.
The richness of their aromas and body make them a great addition to any summer meal. They are perfect for sharing with your friends on warm evenings.
White wine to drink in Piedmont
Langhe, a region in Piedmont, is known for its aromatic and refined white wines. These are perfect for summer enjoyment. Here are some great options.
- The white pearl of Piedmont
- Arneis has a vibrant personality and an elegant structure. This wine is ideal for appetizers, fresh cheeses and fish dishes.
- Chardonnay – a classic wine that never fails
- Langhe Chardonnay can have a wide range of flavours, from mineral and fresh to complex and structured. Boroli’s Langhe Chardonnay Bel Ami is a great option for anyone looking for a refreshing white wine with ripe fruits and pleasant acidity.
- Moscato d’Asti: Piedmont’s sweet wine
- The perfect way to finish a meal in the summer is with Moscato d’Asti. Its slightly sparkling character and aroma make it a great match for fruit-based sweets or light desserts.
It’s not difficult to choose the perfect wine for summer. You can select the ideal wine for every occasion, from summer garden parties to Ferragosto celebrations, with the right tips.
Explore all of Boroli’s wines and discover the drinks that will enrich your summer experience.
