Summer Wines: Perfect Drops for an Aussie BBQ

When the mercury rises and the barbie heats up, choosing the right wine can transform a good gathering into a ripper of an afternoon. Let's explore the best wine choices for every classic Australian summer occasion.

Perfect Matches for the Barbie

Seafood on the Grill

For prawns, whiting, and barbequed squid:

• Pinot Grigio: Clean and crisp, perfect with seafood
• Sauvignon Blanc: Zesty acidity cuts through grilled flavours
• Riesling: Particularly brilliant with lime-dressed prawns

Snags and Chops

For your classic sausage sizzle and lamb chops:

• Grenache: Light enough for summer, bold enough for meat
• Rosé: Versatile and refreshing, pairs with everything
• Light Shiraz: The classic Aussie red, perfect even in summer

Chicken and Fish

For poultry and whole fish:

• Chardonnay: Especially with chicken
• Vermentino: Outstanding with grilled fish
• Fiano: An emerging variety perfect for summer fare

Summer Entertainment Styles

Pool Party Perfection

• Sparkling wines: Celebrate summer in style
• Moscato: Light, sweet, and low in alcohol
• Prosecco: Trendy and perfect for spritz

Beach Picnics

Remember your eskies and plastic glasses for:

• Rosé: The ultimate summer wine
• Light whites: Crisp and refreshing
• Sparkling: Perfect for sunset celebrations

Backyard Cricket Sessions

Easy-drinking options for between overs:

• Light reds served slightly chilled
• Crisp whites that stay fresh in the esky
• Rosé that everyone enjoys

Summer Wine Storage Tips

Keeping Your Whites Right

• Ideal serving temperature: 8-12°C
• Use ice buckets with both ice and water
• Consider insulated wine glasses for outdoor serving

Managing Reds in the Heat

• Slightly chilled (15-18°C) for summer reds
• Keep bottles out of direct sunlight
• Consider lighter styles for hot days

Summer Wine Trends

Rising Stars

• Pétillant naturel (pet-nat) wines
• Orange wines for something different
• Low alcohol options for all-day sessions

Classic Favourites

• Crisp Riesling
• Dry Rosé
• Light Grenache

Practical Tips for Summer Wine Service

Glassware Choices

• Unbreakable options for poolside
• Smaller serves in warmer weather
• Keep spare glasses in the fridge

Quantity Planning

• Allow one bottle per four guests
• Mix of styles for variety
• Extra ice for emergencies

Summer Food and Wine Pairing

Classic Aussie Summer Dishes

• Prawns: Pair with Pinot Grigio or Riesling
• Pavlova: Match with Moscato
• Fresh salads: Perfect with Sauvignon Blanc
• Lamb chops: Try a chilled light Shiraz
• Chicken skewers: Ideal with Chardonnay

Making the Most of Your Summer Wine Experience

Temperature Management

• Keep an esky dedicated to wines
• Rotate bottles from fridge to table
• Use frozen grape ice cubes to avoid dilution

Social Considerations

• Offer both red and white options
• Include some low-alcohol choices
• Keep sparkling on hand for celebrations

Visit Our Cellar Door

Experience our summer wine selection at McLaren Vale Cellars. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect wines for your summer entertaining, whether it's a casual barbie or a special celebration.

Remember, summer wine enjoyment is about keeping things simple, relaxed, and well-chilled. The best wine for your summer gathering is one that brings people together and matches the casual, friendly spirit of an Aussie summer.