Looking for a wine that pairs perfectly with pool parties? Perhaps some vino best suited for vacation? A few bottles for the beach? Here are some wines fantastic for fun in the sun and tailor-made to sip in the summer shade.
2021 Clif Family Viognier
Upon opening this small-production wine from organically farmed estate vineyards, bold floral aromatics perfume the air. To the taste, the predominant flavor on the palate is ripe Asian pear, which is smaller and more concentrated than a standard pear, with a refreshing crisp sweetness. It is balanced with a hint of citrus. $42. ClifFamily.com
Linne Calodo 2022 Contrarian
While a person who is a contrarian opposes popular opinion, this dizzyingly delicious blend of Grenache Blanc, Viognier, and Picpoul Blanc will be popular in the opinion of all who try it. On the nose expect some zippy tropical fruit. Each sip offers guava and sweet apples, and then finishes with a salinity that feels very beachy. $68. LinneCalodo.com
Halter Ranch NV Effervescent Rosé
Tickle the nose and the tastebuds with this effervescent elixir. It opens with aromas of raspberry preserves and citrus. When sipped, a blend of pomegranate, blood orange, and a wee bit of ripe pear come together in perfect harmony. $45. HalterRanch.com
Jordan 2017 Chardonnay
Given that the 2017 harvest of this world-famous chardonnay was smaller than most, this vintage has a bright crispness that literally tastes like summer. There is honeysuckle and pear, but also some zesty, oak-kissed citrus and a touch of white peach. $42. JordanWinery.com
Cliff Lede Vineyards 2021 Marla Blanc
A truly unique blend of a variety of white grapes from both old and new vines first offers a bouquet of roasted pineapple fresh off the grill. While still present, notes of pear, apple, and orange blossoms then sneak in before a finish of stone, lime, lemon drops, and mint. $125. CliffLedeVineyards.com
Silver Trident 2021 Symphony No. 9 Sauvignon Blanc
Symphony is right! This is a buzzy blend of Meyer lemon and ultra-ripe peach with all things tropical, especially banana, mango, and coconut. Just as good on ice, it has a tingly zip of acid but finishes smooth as silk. $36. SilverTridentWinery.com
