We are now firmly in white wine territory, which does not mean red wines are off the table. It is simply a seasonal state of mind. For late spring and summer events and dining, the inherent freshness of a chilled white wine naturally appeals. While a juicy red pairs wonderfully with a burger off the grill, a patio-side aperitif or a meal featuring seafood or dinner salad leans toward a fresh white. Here are three value picks.
Pietrame 2024 Pinot Grigio, Italy ($11.99 on sale until May 30)
Bring on the piazzas, or at least a patio. The next best thing to sipping Pinot Grigio in an Italian piazza is enjoying a glass on your private deck. Pinot Grigio is made for casual, leisurely alfresco affairs. The casual vibe highlights that this wine does not need to be overly complicated. Pietrame's offering, from Italy's Abruzzo region, delivers classic aromas of citrus, white flower, and pear skin in an easy, breezy style. It is balanced and fresh, with a smooth, subtly fruity finish. Bottom line: B+. Piazza or patio partner.
Emiliano O 2024 Organic Reserva Viognier, Chile ($14.99 on sale until May 30)
The extravagant number of labels and certifications on this wine were distracting: environmental, organic, social, non-GMO, vegan, and "because we care." It is great to care, but the sale price first drew attention to this bottle. The fact that it is Viognier also helped, as it is typically a fun and expressive white wine. This one brings a cacophony of aromatics: lemon, herbs, floral, toast, lanolin. A robust entry with evident oak leads to an almost savoury, smooth finish with brightness throughout. It makes a fantastic partner with rotisserie chicken. Bottom line: B. Vivacious Viognier.
Squealing Pig 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand ($19.99)
There will always be a place on the patio table for New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. It is a quintessential fresh white, though that paints too much of a one-dimensional caricature. It is fresh and exuberant, but Kiwi SB also tends to be textural and food-friendly. Another great example has recently landed on shelves. Despite the odd name, Squealing Pig presents classic stylistic traits with aromas of tropical fruit and cut grass, met with citrus, herbs, and a lip-smacking finish. It would pair well with pork satay or sweet-and-sour pork. Bottom line: B+. Sunny Savvy B.
The Swirl: Wine Country Restaurants Are Open
Another sign that we have fully moved into late spring and summer wine season is the reopening of winery restaurants. Black Hill's Vineyard Kitchen is now open Thursday through Sunday, and The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate is serving Thursday through Monday, expanding to seven days a week in June. This extends and expands wine country travel options. Start planning summer touring itineraries and check favourite B.C. winery websites for visiting and dining options.
