Crisp. Light. Refreshing. The tastes of summer. As it starts to heat up we turn to elegant Sauvignon Blancs or a crisp Chardonnay to sip on during mealtimes outdoors. We took a moment to chat with Val Fink, Sommelier, to share with us his take on wines of summer. Whether you are an avid and knowledgeable wine drinker or a casual sipper we have just the wines and pairing for you to enjoy during the summer months.
What’s the wine of choice this summer?
Viognier with honeysuckle, citrus blossom, and peach notes. Where the “Garden meets the Orchard”. Higher in alcohol yet less acidic than most white wines.
Everyone knows light, crisp whites pair with fish and bold, dark reds pair with meat. But what are some mix-ups we can look forward to this season? A pinot noir paired with snapper? A sauvignon blanc with grilled chicken?
Here are a few I recommend: Sushi pairing with Gewurztraminer; Pinot Noir with rabbit, duck and quail; and vegetarian meals with Prosecco or Bellini’s.
What bright, acidic and fresh wines should we be reaching for at the store?
Sancerre or Sancerre Rose.
For each location, tell us your favorite wine:
Utah – Sweet Fruit/Honey Based Wines (ie. Raspberry Honey Wine)
California – Cabernet Sauvignon
France – Bordeaux
Argentina – Malbec
Italy – Barolo
What is your favorite local wine?
Cognition Winery is new to Park City and harvests grapes from Napa and Sonoma, CA. The winemaker works closely with the growers in the Carneros and Oak Knoll regions to ensure the best quality varietals to blend Bordeaux style wines at 7,000 feet elevation in Utah. As of May, they received a packaging and sales license from the Utah DABC to begin selling their wines nationwide.
Top shelf wine for this season that is a must try?
DuMol “Ryan” Pinot Noir.
Menu: Light summer appetizers, a homemade burrata salad, grilled ribeye, and veggies. What are we drinking throughout this meal?
- Prosecco, Vibrant yet Dry
- Syrah (DuMol “Eddie Patch” Syrah) acidic to cut through fatty red meats
- Viognier with veggies
Are you more about traditional wines and the process of drinking them or experimental?
Traditional! Old world, earthy, with minerals and character. Italian, Croatian, Argentinian, High altitude wines with organic self-sustainable grape growing methods.
