Perfect Summer Drinks and Picnic Wines

Whether it's on a beach, in a park, or in your backyard, a summer picnic is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful day with friends and family.

And what's better than a chilled bottle of wine to complement the delicious food while you soak in the sun and breeze? Here are some recommendations on the perfect wines to pair with your summer picnic fare.

Rosé

Rosé is a versatile wine that goes exceptionally well with summer picnic foods. Its fruity notes and refreshing acidity make it an excellent choice to complement light and fruity dishes such as fruit salads, sushi rolls, and seafood. Its bright pink color also adds an element of fun to your picnic experience. We recommend trying Cotes du Rhone Rosé Chapoutier. EqSanta Margherita Pinot Grigiouipt with a screw-off lid and selling for less than $15, this rosé is an excellent addition to your summer picnic.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a summer wine staple that pairs beautifully with light and fresh foods. Its zesty and herbaceous notes complement salads, grilled vegetables, and seafood dishes. Silver Beach Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is a great wine to include in your picnic basket if you are looking for a simple pairing that will not break the bank. If you're setting out on a more refined picnic, consider spending a little extra on Cloudy Bay's Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough. Its mouth-watering aromas of passionfruit and lemon grass are sure to elevate your picnic fare. That’s not to say Kim Crawford is a bad wine–both are great depending on the experience you are looking for.

Pinot Grigio

It’s hard to go wrong with Pinot Grigio when it comes to pairing it with picnic food. Its crisp nature pairs beautifully with light appetizers like charcuterie plates, chocolate, hummus, and bruschetta. If you’re looking for a great Pinot Grigio, you could opt for Casa Farrelli Pinot Grigio or Cantina Della Torre Pinot Grigio.

Beaujolais

Beaujolais (boh jhoe lay) is a red wine that is light and fruity, making it a great choice for picnics–not to mention it doesn’t need to be chilled before serving! It pairs well with delicately flavored meats like chicken and pork and grilled vegetables. The Gamay grapes used to make Beaujolais give a fruity taste with hints of floral aroma. You wouldn’t go wrong with Georges Dubœuf Beaujolais-Villages or The Château des Labourons Fleurie for a more tannic finish. 

Prosecco

No picnic is complete without some bubbles! This Italian wine is light and refreshing with a delicate fruity flavor and an effervescence that will bring out the best in your summer picnic dishes. We recommend Bacio Della Luna Prosecco or Cavatina Prosecco, but there are countless others that are great, too!

A summer picnic with delightful food and the perfect wine pairing is the ultimate way to soak up the sun and enjoy a memorable day. From the light and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc to the fruity Beaujolais, there is a wine to complement every picnic dish. So, pack up your picnic basket with your favorite foods and wine pairings and enjoy sharing quality time with your friends and family!