A wine that’s just perfect for sipping by the fire in February can often feel just too heavy in the warmer weather. Whether you are packing the cooler for a concert under the stars at Wolf Trap, or hosting some friends for an al fresco dinner on your deck, keep cool with these local bottles this season
1 Tarara Winery Pinot Gris: Made from the same grape as Pinot Grigio, Tarara’s take is zingy and elegant, with flavors of apples and citrus that wake up your palate and pair perfectly with food. Try it with fresh tomato salsa and tortilla chips.
2 Breaux Vineyards Les Amis: Grab a bottle of this wine, whose name means “the friends”, and share it with your closest pals. It’s a lovely blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Seyval that’s light, dry and fruity. Serve glasses with steamed shellfish at your next clambake.
3 Hillsborough Vineyards Opal: This gem combines the exotic white grape Viognier with the ever-popular Chardonnay, and the result is a crisp wine that also feels a bit creamy, with floral, orange and peach notes. Very versatile with food, Opal is a great match for pasta salad or grilled chicken.
4 Chrysalis Vineyards Mariposa: With some of the weight and complexity of a red wine, along with the refreshing fruit flavors of a white, a dry rosé is just the thing when the heat is on. Mariposa has hints of fresh strawberries and cherries, and is great with picnic fare like olives, cheeses and smoked meats.
5 Fabbioli Cellars Raspberry Merlot: The lush, jammy flavors of Merlot combine with the tartness of freshly picked raspberries in this semi-sweet wine that’s not at all cloying. Serve it slightly chilled as an alternative to dessert, or alongside chocolate ice cream or gelato.
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