a good glass of wine

A Good Glass of Wine July 2008

Wine columnist Wini Moranville guides you to the best bottles for the money.

Here’s a roundup of fresh, bright bottles to enjoy as the temperatures climb. You’ll discover that summer’s best sips come in all styles—red, white, pink and . . . green (you’ll see!).

A Pink Pick
For a uniquely American take on the pleasures of pink, try elegant Etude Rosé of Pinot Noir (Carneros, Calif.; $20). It’s more brisk than white Zin, but with loads of lush fruit, too.

A Bright Italian White
On a hot summer night, try a cool glass of Stellina di Notte Pinot Grigio (Tre Venezie, Italy; $10). Crisp and citrusy, it goes down well as an apéritif; delicate and fresh, it pairs well with main-dish salads and simple, fuss-free seafood.

What? A Green Wine?
When it’s pure refreshment you’re after, reach for Vinho Verde from Portugal. While vinho verde literally translates to “green wine,” in this case, “green” means youthful, fresh and vibrant. Try Twin Vines Vinho Verde (Portugal; $9), a dry, slightly spritzy take on the summery white. Serve super-chilled.

A Summery Chard
More bright than buttery, Liberty School’s Chardonnay (Central Coast, Calif.; $13) is a food-friendly choice for grilled foods with its orchard and citrus flavors and just enough toasty oak.

A Pinot for the Patio
Lucas & Lewellen Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County; $20) is fruity but not heavy, bright but not slight, and as silky as a great Pinot should be. Put a little chill on it (one hour in the fridge if you’ll be taking it outdoors) to brighten its cherry-berry flavors.