“Red wines generally have higher alcohol levels and are heavier bodied than whites so in the cold weather they are a complete delight, just as much as chilled whites and rosé wines are refreshing in the summers”
1. La Vieille Ferme Rose
Sommelier Nikhil Agarwal suggests this wine from the south of France. “This is a light-bodied, floral wine with notes of rose petals and strawberries with a slight minerality. It’s not too heavy on the pocket either,” he says. The perfect way to enjoy it is to have it chilled on a warm summer afternoon or evening as you watch the sunset. Ask Agarwal what he thinks would go perfectly with that chilled glass of wine and he says, “I would drink the La Vieille Ferme Rosé with cold salmon-based canapes.”
2. Fantini — Pinot Grigio
Sourced from the vineyards of the Agrigento province of Italy, the Fantini Pinot Grogio is a white wine that displays complex peach, grapefruit and lemon lime flavours with hints of oak, vanilla and nutmeg. “This Pinot Grigio makes the perfect choice for a summer brunch on a sunny afternoon,” suggests Sujata Patil, Wine Business Head for Monika Enterprises, who adds that the acidity in the wine is very well balanced with the fruity notes. The wine pairs well with cheese and roasted fish.
3. St. Urbans-Hoff Riesling
A great way to start a summer evening is with a glass of chilled St. Urbans-Hoff Riesling from Mosel, Germany. Says Agarwal, “This Riesling has purity in its fruit; it is very refreshing with German engineering-like precision in terms of balance between sugars and acidity and, a long finish.” For an evening of indulgence, he recommends having the wine with a soft cheese like Chevre or with spicy Thai food if having along with a proper meal.
4. Metal Label — Sauvignon Blanc
The Metal Label Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from a single vineyard in Padthaway, Australia. “This Sauvignon Blanc exudes aromas of gooseberry and parsley with underlying tropical notes and culminates in a zesty palate that displays passionfruit, and notes of kiwi fruit,” says Patil. She adds that it is the acidity in the wine that lends to its crispiness and it is what makes your mouth water on the first sip. The best way to enjoy this wine, she suggests, is to chill it to the prescribed temperatures (8-10° C) and pour yourself a glass with some light foods like salads or any chicken or seafood dish in a light sauce.
