It is peak summer! August days are long and warm, with lazy afternoons, backyard barbecues, daytime picnics and of course, impromptu gatherings. When the heat is on, few things are as satisfying as a chilled glass of wine! When the sun’s out and temperatures rise, I reach for wines that are refreshing, crisp, and easygoing.

I have been on the lookout for zesty quintessential summer wines, particularly white, that are outside the norm. And it wasn’t that difficult. According to the Vitis International Variety Catalogue (VIVC), a comprehensive database of grapevine varietals, there are over 10,000 grape varietals, each with its unique characteristics and flavours!

My selections for this month are not only crowd pleasers but also budget-friendly, all are priced at less than $17.00 a bottle.

Aligoté

Aligoté, sometimes considered the underrated gem of Burgundy, France, has been cultivated since the 1600s. It’s increasing in popularity due to the trend towards fresh and zesty white wines. The well-regarded Château des Charmes Aligoté Cuvée Michéle 2022 VQA from Niagara is widely available in Ontario. It has a light to medium body, green apple aromas, crisp acidity and a refreshing finish. Aligoté pairs well with foods that need a wine to cut through fat, salt, or cream. For a perfect summer meal, pair Château des Charmes Aligoté Cuvée Michéle 2022 VQA with shellfish, tangy cheeses, tempura, grilled light fish, and salads with a simple vinaigrette.

Pecorino

Pecorino is a white grape varietal native to central Italy. It’s been enjoying a resurgence thanks to its expressive character. It often feels like a bridge between Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with both zippy freshness and more body. More complex than Pinot Grigio, Latte Miele Pecorino IGT Terre Abruzzo 2024 has floral aromas, light to medium in body, with citrus flavours and a fresh, lingering finish. With its crisp acidity and hints of lime, pear, and saline minerality, Latte Miele Pecorino IGT Terre Abruzzo 2024 is made for grilled summer dishes like vegetables, fish, chicken and also Pecorino cheese! 

Moschofilero

Similar to Muscat or Gewürztraminer, thanks to its floral, exotic nose and bright acidity, Moschofilero (pronounced mos-ko-FEE-leh-ro) is a highly aromatic white grape native to Greece, primarily grown in the Peloponnese PGI region. It is technically a pink-skinned grape, like Pinot Grigio. Boutari Moschofilero 2023 has subtle aromas of green apples and roses, citrus and herbal flavours and a crisp finish. Because it’s aromatic but crisp, dry, pale, and elegant, Boutari Moschofilero 2023 is very versatile with food, notably lighter fare and dishes with herbs or spice, such as grilled halloumi, sushi, chicken souvlaki and salads with feta cheese.

Viura 

Viura, also known as Macabeo in Catalonia and other regions of Spain, is a versatile white grape, capable of producing fresh, youthful, everyday wines as well as rich, age-worthy whites when oak-aged or blended. Offering exceptional value, it is a unique Spanish white alternative to Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, or white Burgundy. When young, Viura has pear aromas, peach and melon flavours and a dry light finish. Beronia Viura Rioja 2024 is fresh and light, with a citrus nose, delicate spicy flavours and a crisp lingering finish. Serve Beronia Viura Rioja 2024 with tapas, ceviche, paella and Spanish tortilla.

While lighter wines shine in August, I don’t want to overlook red wine lovers, especially when the grill is involved. As evenings cool slightly, medium-bodied reds, especially slightly chilled, can shine! 

Pais

Brought to the Americas by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century, Pais is one of the oldest Vitis Vinifera varietals planted in the New World. País is also known as Mission in the U.S. and Criolla Chica in Argentina. País was often undervalued but is now gaining appreciation as a Chilean cultural heritage grape and for its role in sustainable, dry-farmed viticulture, a method of grape growing that relies on natural rainfall and avoids the use of irrigation. The País grape produces wines that remind me of a rustic Pinot Noir or Gamay (Beaujolais) — not as polished, but full of character, vibrancy and food-friendly. Bisquertt Crazy Rows Pais 2023 grapes are all hand-picked and made from centenarian vines that are not planted in straight rows.

Simply put, these ancient vines grow as bushes in crazy rows! Bisquertt Crazy Rows Pais 2023 has a pale colour, juicy raspberry aromas with a medium body and a fresh finish. Serve slightly chilled (about 55–60°F / 13–15°C). This brings out its acidity and juicy fruit. Pair with charcuterie and hard cheeses, herbed lentil salads, tacos or empanadas, mushroom dishes and pizza.

August is a time to slow down, savour the moment, create lasting memories and savour simple pleasures. Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, a casual BBQ, or just looking to elevate your Tuesday night, let your wine glass reflect the season—light, vibrant, and full of life.

Cheers to sun-soaked days and wine discoveries!

Cheers,

Shari 🥂

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