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The Essential Summer Wine Guide for 2025
Published: May 02, 2025
Summer has a special place in everyone’s hearts—and with it, you can think back to long sunny afternoons, beach days, backyard dinners, and every excuse to pop open something crisp and refreshing. Whether you're lounging with friends on the patio or throwing together a last-minute picnic, the right bottle of wine just fits the season.
But not all wines are cut out for the heat. Some shine when chilled, some pair beautifully with grilled seafood or fresh fruit, and others are just plain fun to sip while doing absolutely nothing at all. After tasting our way through a range of styles (someone had to do it), we’ve pulled together our favorite bottles that truly feel like summer in a glass.
Let’s dive in—there’s something here for every kind of wine drinker, whether you're into whites, reds, rosé, or bubbles.
How We Chose the Best Summer Wines
Not every wine is built for warm weather. When putting this list together, we focused on bottles that are refreshing, food-friendly, and easy to enjoy outdoors—whether you're grilling in the backyard, headed to the beach, or just unwinding after a hot day.
We looked for wines with bright acidity, lower to moderate alcohol, and flavor profiles that lean fresh and zippy over heavy or oaky. Chill-ability was key, and so was versatility—because summer food is all over the map, from simple salads to smoky barbecue. We also factored in overall crowd appeal, affordability, and seasonal availability so you can actually find (and enjoy) these picks without too much hunting.
No stuffy scoring systems here—just honest, seasonal favorites that we’d be happy to pour ourselves.
The Best Summer Rosé Wines
If there’s one bottle that practically screams summer, it’s Rosé. Light, crisp, and endlessly pairable, rosé is the kind of wine you can sip all afternoon—no occasion required. Whether you're lounging poolside, packing a picnic, or setting the table for grilled seafood, these bottles are up for the task.
Here are three standout rosés we’re loving this season:
La Crema Monterey Rosé of Pinot Noir 2023
This is classic California rosé—dry, delicate, and dangerously drinkable. It leads with bright strawberry and watermelon notes, balanced by zesty citrus and a clean finish. Made from Pinot Noir grown in the cool Monterey climate, this one’s vibrant and refreshing without being overly fruity.
Pair With: Caprese salad, tuna poke, or light appetizers like bruschetta. Its freshness and light fruitiness work well with delicate, bright flavors.
WillaKenzie Estate Rosé
From Oregon’s Willamette Valley, this rosé brings a more elegant, nuanced style. You’ll find hints of raspberry, white peach, and floral notes, all wrapped in bright acidity. It’s got a beautiful texture—fresh but layered—and works just as well for food pairings as it does for slow sipping.
Pair With: Grilled shrimp, couscous salad, or roasted chicken. The wine’s balance of acidity and fruit makes it an excellent match for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Capture Rosé of Sangiovese
This one's a little unexpected—and that’s what makes it fun. Made from Sangiovese grown in Alexander Valley, it offers a more savory take on rosé with notes of cherry, wild herbs, and a touch of spice. It’s dry, complex, and super food-friendly.
Pair With: Charcuterie, grilled vegetables, or a simple pasta salad. Its savory character makes it a great complement to hearty, herb-forward dishes.
The Best Summer White Wines
When the sun's out and the grill is going, there’s just something satisfying about a cold glass of white wine in hand. It’s the go-to for beach days, poolside hangs, and impromptu happy hours when you’d rather keep things light and refreshing. But not all whites are created equal—some lean too sharp, others too heavy for the heat.
The best summer whites strike that sweet spot: crisp but not sour, flavorful without weighing you down, and versatile enough to handle everything from seafood skewers to a bowl of salty chips. These three bottles check all the boxes—and then some. Whether you’re into citrusy zingers, layered and creamy sips, or something with stone fruit and florals, there's a white here for you.
Carmel Road California Sauvignon Blanc
This Sauvignon Blanc is like a breath of fresh coastal air. It bursts with vibrant notes of grapefruit, pear, and lemongrass, offering a crisp and juicy palate with bright acidity and a clean finish. It's the kind of wine that pairs effortlessly with a sunny afternoon and a plate of fresh ceviche or a goat cheese salad.
Pair With: Fresh seafood like shrimp or crab, citrusy salads, and goat cheese. This wine’s crisp acidity makes it an ideal match for light, zesty dishes.
Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay
For those who appreciate a richer white, this Chardonnay delivers. Sourced from Santa Barbara County, it offers lush tropical fruit flavors intertwined with minerality, floral notes, and a hint of vanilla and spice. Aged for nine months in French oak, it has a rich, long finish that pairs beautifully with crab cakes, scallops, or plank-grilled salmon.
Pair With: Grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or creamy pasta dishes. The wine's richness complements flavorful, buttery meals.
La Crema Monterey Pinot Gris
This Pinot Gris is all about freshness and balance. With aromas of pear, lemon curd, pineapple, and white floral notes, it offers flavors of Meyer lemon and nectarine on the palate, followed by a fresh yet rich and multilayered acidity. It's a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of summer dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Pair With: Grilled fish tacos, fresh mozzarella salads, or light seafood pasta. Its fresh acidity balances out richer flavors and brightens up fresh dishes.
The Best Summer Red Wines
Red wine might not be the obvious choice when it’s warm out, but hear us out: not all reds are heavy, and some are actually better slightly chilled. These are the kinds of wines that can hang at a cookout, pair with grilled meats and veggies, and still feel light enough for a summer evening.
Here are three reds that prove summer and red wine absolutely go together:
Siduri Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir
This Pinot Noir is all about balance and brightness. It opens with ripe cherry, raspberry, and a touch of baking spice, offering just enough depth without overwhelming the palate. There’s a hint of coastal freshness here, thanks to the Santa Barbara vineyards, making it ideal for a slight chill before serving. Pair it with grilled salmon, portobello burgers, or even a plate of charcuterie on the porch.
Pair With: Grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a mushroom risotto. Its bright fruit and subtle earthiness make it a versatile match for many dishes.
Murphy-Goode California Cabernet Sauvignon
While Cab isn’t typically a “summer red,” this one leans more approachable than brooding. Think blackberry, dark cherry, and a whisper of toasted vanilla—structured, but smooth. It’s the kind of red you pour at a backyard BBQ, especially if ribs or grilled burgers are on the menu. It holds its own but won’t overpower your plate.
Pair With: A juicy steak, BBQ ribs, or a charcuterie board. This bold red wine pairs beautifully with savory and smoky flavors.
Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Merlot
This Merlot is velvety and fruit-forward with notes of plum, black cherry, and mocha. There’s enough richness to make it feel indulgent, but it’s soft and round enough to sip on a warm night. It’s also surprisingly food-friendly—try it with grilled chicken thighs, veggie skewers, or anything glazed in a bit of BBQ sauce.
Pair With: Lamb chops, grilled burgers, or marinated vegetables. The smooth, round tannins complement rich, grilled fare.
The Best Summer Sparkling Wines
Nothing says celebration quite like bubbles. Sparkling wine is perfect for any summer occasion, from brunch with friends to an afternoon on the porch. These three sparkling wines bring the fizz with style, offering everything from crisp and refreshing to rich and complex.
Benvolio Prosecco DOC Friuli
A classic Italian Prosecco that’s light, crisp, and easy-drinking. It has bright green apple and pear notes, with a touch of floral elegance, making it a great choice for light bites or as an aperitif before dinner. Perfect when you just want to keep things fresh and fun.
Pair With: Fresh oysters, antipasto platters, or a light fruit salad. Its crisp, bubbly nature is perfect for appetizers and light seafood.
Gran Moraine Yamhill-Carlton Brut Rosé Sparkling
For something a little more special, this Brut Rosé is elegant with a touch of wild strawberry, raspberry, and a subtle yeasty richness. It’s from Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton region, known for producing sparkling wines with finesse and balance. This rosé is perfect for sipping at sunset.
Pair With: Grilled shrimp, goat cheese, or a fresh berry salad. The wine’s subtle berry flavors enhance light and fresh dishes.
La Crema Russian River Valley Saralee's Vineyard Sparkling Blanc de Blancs
For those who love the crisp elegance of a Blanc de Blancs, this one is a treat. Made with 100% Chardonnay, it’s fresh with lemon zest, green apple, and a delicate creaminess. It’s complex and vibrant, making it ideal for pairing with seafood or rich appetizers.
Pair With: Lobster rolls, crab cakes, or a creamy brie. Its crisp acidity pairs perfectly with rich seafood or soft cheeses.
Uncork the Best Summer Wines from YourWineStore
As the days get warmer and the sunshine lasts longer, there’s no better time to uncork a bottle of something refreshing. Whether you're in the mood for a crisp white, a vibrant rosé, or a light red to pair with your favorite summer dishes, these wines are perfect for every occasion. From casual backyard BBQs to beachside picnics, they bring the right touch of refreshment for any moment. And with YourWineStore, you can conveniently buy wine online and explore an extensive collection of wines that suit every taste and preference. No more wandering store aisles—just browse, order, and have your selections delivered straight to your door. Plus, our curated selections make it easy to find the perfect bottle for everything from intimate gatherings to big celebrations.
So, whether you're popping open a bottle of sparkling wine for a toast or enjoying a chilled glass of rosé on a warm evening, we’ve got you covered. Make the most of your summer with wines that are as fun and easy-going as the season itself.
Cheers to sunny days, delicious wines, and the ease of shopping for the perfect bottle.