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Ah, summer—a season of carefree days, joyful memories, and countless reasons to enjoy a delicious glass of wine or two. With warm weather and long, sunlit days upon us, now’s the time to dive into seasonal fun. To celebrate, we’ve picked 14 great Napa Valley wines to reach for this summer. Whether you’re packing up a picnic or coming off the pickleball court, you can bet you’ll be sipping well.
When lounging poolside, you need a wine that’s light and refreshing to beat the hot summer sun. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley is an ideal choice, offering bright citrus, stone fruit, and lemongrass notes alongside vibrant layers of acidity to keep you cool in between dips in the pool.
Summer is synonymous with barbecues, and a robust Napa Valley Zinfandel is the way to go. With bold, dark fruit flavors, savory notes, and spice undertones, it’s a great choice for pairing with smoky grilled meats and saucy barbecued chicken.
After an invigorating hike, a glass of chilled Napa Chardonnay is just what the doctor ordered. Offering typical notes of apple, pear, and vanilla, we’d suggest trying one with a bright mineral edge to it. It’s a lovely way to unwind after a day spent in nature.
Frog’s Leap ‘Shale and Stone’ Chardonnay, Carneros, $42
Clif Family Winery Unoaked Chardonnay, Oak Knoll District, $38
With all the flavors in a picnic spread, you’ll need something versatile and easy-drinking to pair with it, which is why a Napa Valley Rosé is the perfect option. With enticing strawberry, watermelon, and floral notes, it’s sure to make a delightful companion for a variety of picnic foods, from cheese and charcuterie to salads and sandwiches.
When a summer storm rolls in, there’s nothing better than getting cozy with a glass of red, like a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Look for one with a rich, yet approachable profile, with dark fruit, licorice, and chocolate characters—a combination sure to provide comfort and warmth during the rainy weather.
Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $55
Burgess Cellars “Promiscua” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $145
For a day at the beach, you can’t beat a Napa Valley Vermentino that’s as refreshing and salty as a dip in the ocean. The wine’s bright acidity and clean citrus flavors are wonderfully refreshing, making it a fantastic choice for enjoying in the sun, sand, and surf.
Toast to a lively game of pickleball with a refreshing orange wine made by a Napa Valley producer. While orange wines vary in style, seek out one with lively citrus and stone fruit flavors and a crisp, dry palate, which makes for the perfect sipper after a spirited match.
The Vice ‘Pickleball’ Orange of Viognier, Oak Knoll District, $38
Tank Garage Winery, Love Saves Orange Wine, San Benito, $38
Wineries
