It’s safe to say many change their drink choices with the shifting seasons. Our winter cravings differ from those of the summer and the same thing goes for wine. Although every season is wine season, certain styles may be more suitable for a particular weather. From festive wintery nights to outdoor get-togethers, there's a wine to complement every season and occasion.
Summertime Wines
Summer’s warmth calls for white wines that are light, crisp and refreshing to quench thirst and beat the heat. Usually, these have lower alcohol content and higher acidity that perfectly complements the warm weather. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio stand out as quintessential summer choices. Sauvignon Blanc is one of the few wines that would satisfy every need for the perfect sunny wine.
Sauvignon Blanc is a green-skinned grape variety originally from the city of Bordeaux in France. Nowadays, it’s one of the best-known and most appreciated white grape varieties in the world, making quite a name for itself not only in France but also in New Zealand, Australia, and California. White wine Sauvignon varieties are loved for their fresh acidity and beautiful perfume.
Sauvignon Blanc wine has a complex and varied fragrance profile. The origin of the grapes and the production techniques have a significant impact on the aromas. Typically, in cooler climates like France, aromas of green apple and gooseberry can be found in white wine Sauvignon varieties. In general, these wines tend to be more rustic in style, lower in alcohol and slightly earthier.
On the other hand, in warmer regions like New Zealand, Australia, and California, Sauvignon Blanc wines have exotic fruit notes like passion fruit, melon, mango, and citrus. Also, they tend to be fruit-forward and have higher alcohol content than the Old World wines made in France.
However, no matter the location, white Sauvignon Blanc will always remain a summertime staple that pairs well with all the foods and events that make up summer like outdoor picnics and barbecues.
Speaking of pairing things, Sav Blanc goes well with foods like salads, fresh herbs, grilled fish, and fresh prawns. Matching wines to the food we eat is important since the right choice can elevate the flavours of a dish.
To maximise your sipping experience, you should always make sure to serve it chilled, just like other white wines. It can be refrigerated for about two hours to reach the optimal temperature which is between 6°C to 8°C. If you want to chill your wine faster for outdoor events, an ice bucket for 30-40 minutes will do the trick.
Winter Wines
As temperatures start to drop many of us start to crave cosiness and heartier meals. Cold nights call for wines that are richer, bolder and more robust to hold up against the bolder flavours and richness of winter dishes. That same Sauvignon Blanc you savoured all summer long definitely isn’t cutting it anymore. Winter red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz tend to be heavier and with a more complex taste than summer wines.
Cabernet Sauvignon is probably one of the world's most popular red wine grapes. It has thick and durable skin that can withstand the elements better than other varieties. As a wine, Cabernet Sauvignon is renowned for its dark, rich colour, full body and high alcohol content.
Given its acidity and alcohol content, it’s always advisable to drink Cabernet Sauvignon wine with food. When it comes to pairing red winter wines with food, the general rule of thumb is to pair them with red meats. Steak, burgers, and lamb chops all make a good choice.
Cabernet Sauvignon has varied flavours because it is grown in many different climates and geographical areas around the world. New World Cabernets from California, Chile and Australia tend to be a little fruitier than Old World Cabernets, featuring aromas of cherries, plums, blueberries, blackberries, and black pepper. They also tend to have a little bit less tannin and acidity but also have more alcohol than Old World Cabernets.
Tannins are naturally occurring phenolic compounds that give wine depth, as well as bitterness and astringency. Ever wonder why red wines make your mouth dry? It's due to them being astringent, an attribute that causes a drying sensation in the mouth.
Old World Cabernets from France and Italy, on the other hand, tend to taste a little lighter and have less alcohol but stronger tannins and acidity than New World Cabernets.
Last but not least, matching the wine to the occasion is also important. The right one can set the tone and elevate the overall experience. For instance, a more approachable and reasonably priced wine, such as a Malbec or Tempranillo, can be excellent for a relaxed get-together, while a rare or expensive bottle of sparkling wine can be ideal for a special occasion.
