Summer's finally here and we're in for even more hot weather over the next two weeks, which begs the question - what should I drink? Sure, there are margaritas (I buy fresh lemon-lime juice from a local restaurant to make mine) and beer, but there are some fantastic whites that are made just for our hottest days.
Pinot Grigio is always a good bet. It's the same grape as Pinot Gris, just done in an Italian style instead of a French style. The Italians know hot, and Pinot Grigios usually have a good measure of refreshing acidity. At my wine shop we can't keep the Mission Hill PG on the shelves on hot days.
But it's not PG that I'm interested in telling you about, it's Sauvignon Blanc. IMHO it's one of the best hot weather options around.Typically characterized by green flavours (grass, peas) and tart gooseberries it's just a perfect thirst quencher on a hot day.
Here are three that I like:
Babich Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand $18 - Refreshing acidity is balanced by gorgeous tropical fruit flavours like guava. Serious yum factor here, and enough fruitiness to please a range of people - like those you invited over for a BBQ. http://www.bcliquorstores.com/en/products/560144
Astica Sauv Blanc-Semillon made by Trapiche in Argentina - It's not possible that this is $9. I kid you not, this is a seriously respectable wine for the price. In fact, my mom and step-father (who are both in the wine biz) keep pouring this blind for each other every few months to see if they still like it, and they always do. It's like they try to trick each other to see if they'll dismiss it as cheap - and they don't. It's everything you want in a crisp white, and at $9 it's practically free, people. Refreshing acidity, ripe peach and a long finish. This is a party wine, a wedding wine, a Tuesday wine, and one you could serve to wine lovers and they'll never believe what you paid. What more can you ask? I will buy it by the case for my next BBQ. http://www.bcliquorstores.com/en/products/243485
And finally one that I don't usually go for, but it recently quenched me on a ridiculously hot night in a stifling bar.
Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, from New Zealand $22. OMG is this ever tart... I mean refreshing. Lemon-lime, gooseberry, super citrusy and tart. Usually, I admit that I'm not a fan of it on its own, though paired with something that's also a bit acidic (salads with vinaigrette, anything with lemon or lime) and it'll tone down a bit. It's really quite great on a super hot day, in the same way that lemonade hits the spot. http://www.bcliquorstores.com/en/products/243485
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