This beautiful spring weather has gotten me excited for dining al fresco and hosting outside soirées with friends — oh and that delicious glass of wine. In the warmer weather I definitely tend to drink more (no judging please) and lean towards rosé or white wines, but I also love a good red and make sure I have multiple options on hand if I’m hosting a get together. Marc Berry, Wine Buyer & Sales Manager at Grapes & Grains in Barrington, Rhode Island, and who I tend to harass on a weekly basis for the perfect wine, shares his wine picks for the season (all for under $40) — whether it’s opening a bottle with friends for a casual get together, watching the sunset on the beach or hosting a backyard party.
Here are five wine picks for that perfect get together when the weather warms up:
“Every soirée is a little more lively when you start with some bubbles,” says Berry. “Mercat Brut Nature Cava is a crisp, refreshing conversation starter with no added sugars and minimal less contact, this sparkler goes wonderfully with tapas or small bites.”
Berry’s pick for a light lunch with friends: “A bright and fruity Sauvignon Blanc such as the wine from Satellite of Marlborough, New Zealand enhances the light and easy attitude.”
Backyard BBQ? “Relaxation is almost involuntary with a chilled glass of pink next to you. Day Owl Rosé is 100 percent Barbera from California. The nose of raspberries and hint of orange zest will keep you just as cool as the glass is.”
Sunset beach days are coming. Berry suggests sharing a bottle of Pinot Noir with your company. “An Old World styled Pinot Noir is optimal for this occasion, as the darker notes of black cherry and earthy nuances lend to the waning of the day. Roco Gravel Road Pinot Noir has just the right balance of dark fruit notes and long finish that lingers wave after wave.”
For a fab and fun dinner party, Berry recommends a smooth Bordeaux. “With a not too heavy mouth-feel, Mirambeau Papin has a classic deep fruit profile with blackberry on the nose that can easily adapt to a variety of meals. Predominately Cabernet or Merlot (depending on year and style), wines of Bordeaux pair well with beef, game, grilled vegetables, and waiting for someone to stop telling the same story they told 40 minutes ago.”
Recommendations:
Mercat Brut Nature Cava, $16
Satellite Sauvignon Blanc, $13
Day Owl Rose, $14
Roco Gravel Road Pinot Noir, $27
Mirambeau Papin Bordeaux, $19
Main image taken by Cynthia Ragona for Sea Green Photography
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