White Wines for Summer and Beyond!

   Strictly a rosé person during the summer months, this year I find myself crossing over into the wonderful world of white wines. Typically, my repertoire has consisted of a smattering of whites, but heatwaves and hazy, humid days have pushed me more frequently towards cool, crisp, fruity whites.

Listed below are a few of my favorites:

Anselmo Mendes, Vinho Verde, Portugal, Alvarinho, 2012: I recently happened upon this white wine at a store tasting of Portuguese wines. With similar characteristics to Sauvignon Blanc, Alvarinho is a fruity varietal with notes of citrus, grapefruit, and apple. A rich, refreshing wine that pairs well with grilled white fish, this retails for $19.99 a bottle.

Brancott Estate, Marlborough, New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc, 2012: Rated by wine critics as having some of the world's best Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand is turning out a plethora of outstanding wines. This aromatic, full-flavored white is well- balanced and fresh. It is a great deal at $9.99 a bottle.

Cakebread, Napa Valley, CA, Chardonnay, 2011: Not a fan of Chardonnays, this is probably the only one I will drink. I find them typically heavy, oaky and too buttery. Cakebread gets it right, performing both oak and stainless steal fermentation. Treat yourself to this well-balanced, robust wine which retails at approximately $44.99 a bottle.

Chateau Magence Graves Blanc, Bordeaux, France, Sauvignon Blanc & Semillon, 2010: I discovered this white a few summers ago at a wine store tasting and have been drinking it ever since. At the time I was fearful of French wines, not able to read the labels. Taking my first wine course, I just started exploring French wines, building my confidence; this was one of my first pick. From the Graves region in Bordeaux, this blend is golden in color, medium-bodied, fruity and a great value at $10.99.

Villa Masetti, Soave, Italy, Pinot Grigio, 2011: As a novice wine drinker in my early 20s, Pinot Grigio was my go-to wine. Years later I gravitated away from them, exploring other wines, but this Pinot Grigio has made me want to start drinking them again. Medium-bodied and refreshing, this mellow wine is a great deal at $10.29 a bottle.

   With the thousands of grape varietals out there, I only mentioned a few of my preferred white wines. I would love to hear which whites you are uncorking this summer – do share!
   On a more personal note, I would be remiss if I did not mention I am aware I have been neglectful with my postings lately. Life has taken a slight detour, but please rest assured, all will be well within a few months. I have been given the go ahead and my consumption of white wine will extend past the summer months. My doctor has given me the green light to imbibe in the occasional glass of wine. White wine is recommended, as red can cause reflux during my treatments. I promise to post when I can so please hang in. Thank you for your continued support!

Cin Cin!