Red Wines for Summer

Planning a summer barbeque or wedding? Choosing the type of wine to serve with your menu at these special occasions can be a breeze if you know a few facts to get you started. I've compiled a quick guide to summer red wines to aid you in your decision.

Red wines are my favorite, as they go well with so many summer time foods. However, you need to be careful. There are a few exceptions. For example, Zinfandels don't go well with spicy foods. The flavors of the two compete and leave everything tasteless. Because of this, it is important to consider with any occasion what type of foods you will be serving.

Zinfandels do, however, compliment many foods prepared on the grill. This red wine has a bold flavor that goes well with red meat. It also pairs well with barbeque sauce (non-spicy of course) and steak sauce. So if you are the master griller of steaks or burgers, consider serving this red wine at your cookout this summer.

Merlot is another good choice for cookouts. It is a fruity red wine and, unlike Zinfandels, goes nicely with spicy things. If your menu includes a summer salad, this is a great wine to have. So gather those fresh greens and vegetables, grill up some spicy barbequed chicken and serve them with a bottle of Merlot.

If you're planning a summer wedding, consider serving a Cabernet Sauvignon to your guests. This red wine is very light and goes along with many light summer time foods. It won't overpower a menu of shrimp cocktail or halibut.

If the wedding is outdoors, try a red wine such as Grand Cru Beaujolais. This wine is light and will help to refresh your guests in the warm weather.

If you're unsure about which red wine would best compliment your menu, stick with a safe choice like Pinot Noir. This wine is very flexible and will go well with virtually everything. It is wonderful with salmon, burgers or chicken, making it a great choice for any summer time occasion.

Once you decide on what type of red wine to serve, get educated on how to serve it. Be sure to serve your wine at the right temperature. Red wines should be enjoyed at 60-65 degrees. If served too warm, the taste of alcohol is overwhelming. If served too cold, the taste can come off as bitter. Offer your red wine in a rounded, bowl-shaped wine glass This provides the wine with plenty of surface area to breathe. Fill the glass no more than 2/3 full to give your guests opportunity to swirl the wine to release the flavors.

Consider supporting your local community and consult a winery in your area about red wines. Many times, they will have a tasting time when you can sample many different types. Tell them what you plan to serve at your occasion and they can help you choose a nice red wine to compliment your menu.

Most importantly, get a wine you enjoy. If you have a favorite red wine, go with it. Chances are, your guests will love it too.