Wine Merchant Shares Top Ten Summer Wines

Wine is a delightful part of both casual and formal dining, barbecues and more, especially on Long Island, where a plethora of seasonal and yearly varieties flourish out east, and shops, such as the International Wine Gallery on Nassau Boulevard, promote the fruit-based blends as their major product.

During the summer months, selecting the right wine can be difficult, as some are too heavy for a hot day, and others do not pair well with barbecue selections or casual fare. However, Bob, owner of the International Wine Gallery, notes, "Everyone has a different taste," and some steer towards more fruity, sweet blends in the summer months, while others stick with their classic favorites.

Bob, Garden City shoppers and wine fanatics weigh in on some of their summer favorites.

10. Many wine drinkers are familiar with the shiny, yellow and plentiful Barefoot Pinot Grigio bottle. Bob says it's a popular choice year round for shoppers at the Wine Gallery; however, it's particularly appropriate for summer with its green apple, citrus and white peach flavors. Grilled shrimp makes for an appropriate pairing.

9. Wine coolers are a staple summer beverage. Although many companies substitute malt for wine these days, wine lovers still count them as a favorite. Flavors range from pina colada to strawberry, and the beverage is found in coolers at many summertime celebrations. Shopper Nicole Dinger sums up why wine coolers are so perfect for the season: "They are light, and not heavy in your stomach. So even when it is very hot outside, they are still enjoyable!"

8. Another variety that made the list is chardonnay. That may be surprising, since some chardonnays are on the heavier side. However, consider the proper food pairings – the blend is frequently sipped with provolone, mild cheddar, Gruyere, mango, pineapple and honeydew.

7. Bob notes that French Rose is particularly popular, describing it as "dryer than White Zinfandel." Rose wines are often incorrectly thought of as a blend of red and white wines. That is incorrect. In fact, many rose wines are made strictly from types of red grapes while some are a blend of white and red grapes, not merely a mixing together of two different colored liquids.

6. A more expensive variety, Bob mentions, of the ever-popular Pinot Grigio is the Santa Margherita. An elegant meal at a waterfront restaurant is a perfect opportunity to sip this wine, as it is frequently paired with chicken and seafood entrees and soups.

5. Another popular favorite for the warmer months is White Zinfandel. "It's good because it's cool and subtle, making it refreshing on hot summer days," says Christa Kelly. White Zinfandel is also lower in alcohol content, making it particularly appropriate for the summer season when people need to be more cautious of dehydration. Don't be fooled by the name either! White Zinfandel is actually pinkish in color.

4. Great for the meat lover, Bob says the Cavit Pinot Noir is a very notable wine choice. A bit more heavy-bodied than some of the other selections, Cavit Pinot Noir is especially suitable for a family meal at home of grilled seafood, chicken and beef.

3. One of the most versatile blends on our list, Dr. Loosen Riesling, can be paired with an extremely large assortment of foods ranging from sweet and succulent desserts at a restaurant to spicy Mexican food at an outdoor-themed party. It's an appropriate choice for a variety of seasonal activities. And who can forget the quirky yet attractive name?

2. If a bottle of Riesling Schmitt Sohne Crisp and Fruity doesn't imply summer, then nothing does! A sunshine on an ocean blue backdrop is nothing other than reminiscent of the beach. Wine aficionado Eric Sherman says, "This is my favorite summer wine because the bottle puts me in a summery mood. It has an apple flavor, and I enjoy drinking it when I'm sitting outside at night."

1. Hands down, sangria came in at number one. Who can deny the cooling effect of a fruity blend often enhanced with pieces of fresh sliced mangos, oranges and berries or sprinkles of honey, sugar and orange juice? Enthusiastic consumer, Gina DiSanto says, "I love the refreshing fruity flavor." Sangria is also very versatile and can be served at a casual family barbecue in the park or a classy backyard celebration.