The balmy evenings stretch ahead.For some this might inspire jogging on the sea wall or slogging up the Grouse Grind but for me it encourages lingering on the patio over a glass or two. As the weather warms up, my drinking habits don't change too radically though there are certain qualities I seek when sipping al fresco.
My fridge is always stocked with well-chilled whites. I load up on crisp, uncomplicated examples that are light on their feet and serve the laudable purpose of providing refreshment. In particular, I prize elevated acidity and pretty aromas to match the scented air. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio may be default choices but I challenge you to try something new, like Albariño, Chenin Blanc or Verdicchio.
As for reds, Ilook for wines that are as delicious on their own as they are with food.This way I can drink a glass as the sun goes down and continue sipping on it if the aperitif turns into dinner. I tend to avoid thosewith the toughest of tanninsand stick to friendly, fruit forwardand easy-goingreds. If I crave something lighter, Beaujolais is my first choice. When I want a bit more substance, Grenache ratchets it up another notch and Zinfandel provides an even bigger mouthful.
Above all, it's the season to drink rosé. The freshest vintages have just started to arriveand the pink section is plumping up nicely. While I advocate rosé year round, it’s absolutely essential during the warmer months and simply made for outdoor drinking. Nothing is prettier by the pool and a glass in hand will improve your boccegame immensely. Now that sounds way more civilized than sweating up a mountain.
2013 Painted Wolf, ‘The Den’ Chenin Blanc • South Africa • $16, private wine stores (price may vary)
Will satisfy those who are looking for a fuller white yet still want to be refreshed. Pineapple, honeydew melon and lots of vibrant lemony acidity. Perfect when you are grilling up fish and veggies.
2012 Bassermann-Jordan, Riesling Trocken • Pfalz, Germany • $25.29, BC Liquor Stores
Enticing apple orchard and lime leaf aromas. A brilliantly dry and steely Riesling with a burst of peach on the long lingering finish. Mouth watering and hard not to chug. If you are having a fancier outdoor gathering, this works a treat with spot prawn ceviche.
2014 Roche, Rosé• British Columbia • $19, private wine stores (price may vary)
A unique roséfrom our own backyard that blends Austrian grape Zweigelt with a touch of the delightfully aromatic Schonberger. Fragrant flowers and strawberry aromas with peach and nectarine make for a fruity but decidedly dry wine. Picnic-worthy, especially with classics like curry chicken salad or Tex-Mex dip.
2013 Paso Creek, Zinfandel, Paso Robles, California • $14.19, BC Liquor Stores
Juicy and charming with plush black raspberries and blueberries along sweet spice and sarsaparilla. A great value Zin that will keep you warm when the sun goes down and may inspire you to throw some hamburgerson the barbecue.
2012 Rio Madre, Graciano • Rioja DOCa, Spain • $14.79, BC Liquor Stores
A rare Rioja made entirely from Graciano, a grape that is typically just used in small quantitiesin blends.Lots of violets, black plum and black cherry with sweet earth and red licorice notes chiming in on the soft, fleshy palate. This super characterful Spanish red is easy to drink on own but equally delicious with grilled lamb chops.
• Prices are exclusive of taxes.
