What to drink this Summer: Our favourite food and wine pairings
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy chilled wines and light, fresh foods. At this time of year, crisp and fruity whites and rosés are an ideal accompaniment for enjoying the hot sun. And so here are our food and wine pairing recommendations, as you spend more time outdoors soaking up the balmy Summer magic.
Sauvignon blanc with salads
The bright, grassy notes of sauvignon blanc are a fantastic complement to fresh vegetables and green salads. The herbaceous notes of the wine match the lively greens, while the acidity cuts through rich dressings.
Try pairing a classic sauvignon blanc with a baby spinach salad topped with fresh strawberries, almonds, and poppy seed dressing. Alternatively, a sauvignon blanc goes great with a Greek salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta.
Here are some premium sauvignon blancs that we think you’ll love.
Rosé with picnics and BBQs
A light, fruit-forward rosé pairs beautifully with relaxed al fresco dining.
We love a nicely chilled rosé with fried chicken, potato salad, grilled vegetables, and other classic cookout foods. The touch of sweetness helps counter the char from grilled meats and vegetables; but the right rosé also goes very well with BLTs, Caprese sandwiches with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, and summer pasta salads loaded with veggies.
For something truly special, we recommend this exquisite and rare English rosé, aged for a decade under cork.
Vinho verde with seafood
The effervescence and tangy acidity of vinho verde makes it excellent alongside the brininess of perfectly fresh seafood. Known as ‘green wine’ because of its unique colour, this light Portuguese wine has subtle citrus and stone fruit notes that pair wonderfully with grilled fish, shrimp skewers, crab cakes, and ceviche. The refreshing quality of vinho verde also cuts through the richness of fried seafood dishes as well — try it with fish tacos or classic fried clams and oysters.
Here are some highly rated vinho verdes from Decanter for under £30.
Prosecco with fruit desserts
Light, fruity sparkling wine helps balance the sweetness of any sugary dessert. Peach pie, strawberry shortcake, and mixed berry tarts all pair wonderfully with a glass of chilled prosecco. For an elegant conclusion to your perfect Summer meal, try prosecco alongside fresh raspberries, blueberries, and a slice of pound cake. The effervescence of the wine will highlight and elevate the flavours in the fruit.
We recommend this highly rated, premium brut prosecco along with whatever dessert your sweet tooth prefers.
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