A deep-rooted misconception in the wine world is that white is for summer and red is for winter. Yet, a trip to the rolling hills of Piedmont or the asados in Argentina during the hot season will reveal a surprising truth: red wine does not disappear with the arrival of the first heat waves. While some reds may seem intense in the summer sun, others, light and fruity, are a true hymn to the season.
In recent years, chilled reds have conquered the palates of many, although the idea that only Pinot Noir deserves a place in the refrigerator persists. Sure, Pinot Noir, with its light body, benefits from the cold, but other varieties such as Frappato, Dolcetto and even Malbec are no different.
Here are some proposals from our sommeliers at ArsWine.it for an unforgettable summer dedicated to fresh reds!
Chionetti, Dolcetto di Dogliani 'San Luigi'
A bright and fascinating bouquet welcomes the nose as this Dolcetto di Chionetti opens in the glass. On the palate, it is soft, with juicy notes of red cherry and raspberry that stand out more when served fresh. It's the perfect pairing with a wood-fired pizza.
Heinrich Zweigelt
The Zweigelt, a harmonious cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent, is enhanced in the cold with dense tannins and black cherry aromas. Heinrich's Zweigelt highlights the best qualities of the grape, with notes of dried herbs and white pepper spice on the nose, and a rich red fruit palate. Try it with a watermelon, feta and mint salad for a combination that enhances the freshness of the wine.
Kosta Browne Monte Carmelo, Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
This Pinot Noir from the Central Coast is a summer surprise, capable of accompanying wild meats in winter and delighting with cured meats on a summer evening. The wine offers a clean mineral structure, with notes of black cherry and red gooseberry, for a sip that enchants and invites you to drink more.
Donnafugata Bell'Assai Vittoria DOC Frappato Sicily
Frappato is a much loved fresh wine in Sicily, and this bottle from the Donnafugata winery is a true testament to its excellence. The nose is a seductive mix of freesia and strawberry, while velvety tannins and persistent cherry blend on the palate. Perfect with grilled prawns on a barley and aromatic herb salad, for a combination that tastes of sea and sun.
Elena Walch Schiava
In Alto Adige, Schiava is the wine of the summer. Elena Walch creates a style that captures the lively acidity of cranberry and the juiciness of strawberry, with light acidity and tannins that linger in a refined finish. This bottle invites you to enjoy fresh tomato pasta with a touch of basil, in a combination of flavors and traditions.
Our Arswine.it Sommelier team has decided to award Colosi's Salina Rosso as a wine to be served very chilled. A blend of Nerello Cappuccino and Nerello Mascalese. Persistent, fruity, with notes of ripe cherry, vanilla, black pepper. Right flavor that enhances it in combination with game, complex cheeses, elaborate sauces