Many people ask me if I like red or white wine better. The fact is, I really don't have a preference for either red or white, as long as they are interesting and enjoyable to taste. I have always been a bit sceptical about drinking only whites in the summer, but I learned a practical lesson a few weeks ago. I poured a glass of Spanish red at a birthday party, and after the first sip I was satisfied with my selection.

Out to the patio I went and mingled with the other guests. However, after about fifteen minutes my wine tasted horrible. When red wine is heated well beyond 18 degrees Celsius, the wine looses its balance. The fruitiness of the wine disappears and the alcohol and tannin level is accentuated which results in the wine burning in your mouth. I went back to the kitchen and poured a crisp, citrusy Pinot Grigio, a much better experience.  Fifteen minutes later the white wine warmed up a bit, but it still held its fruity character.

I'll never think of drinking a red again on a hot day. Then I began to think of all the whites I enjoyed lately and thought I would share a few suggestions on the wines you'll definitely enjoy this summer.

An unusual selection from Spain is the Trio 2009, a blend of Chardonnay and two other Spanish varietals. The tropical and citrus driven character is accentuated by a floral, lemon flavour. It is dry, a bit tart but it did have a long finish. An impressive wine for around $14.00.

A stellar selection from Portugal is the Douro Vinho Branco, dou Rosa 2009. It displays an interesting nose of sweet citrus and floral attributes. It has a briny quality; you can smell the ocean breeze in this wine. Perfectly balanced, it cries out for fresh seafood dishes. It is not surprising that the winemaker was awarded winemaker of the year in Portugal.

Burrowing Owl from the Okanagan Valley has released a Sauvignon Blanc under the name of Calliope. A bargain for the quality, it has a grapefruit, sweet herbal and lemon peel aromas. On the palate it shows a softer style with medium acidity and lemon lime flavours. It is a good introduction to Sauvignon Blanc for the beginner wine drinker looking for new experiences.


So try a few whites this summer and leave the reds to the fall and winter. I'm sure your taste buds will approve.