6 wines to try this summer, according to an expert

Whether you’re in the mood for something zippy and refreshing or a red with just enough bite to stand up to a flame-grilled burger, this selection has you covered. They’re all about no-fuss, high-flavour and good times.

Something Pink: Studio by Miraval Rosé, €24.50

The showstopper. Pale, elegant, and endlessly drinkable, Studio by Miraval Rosé, €24.50, is a Provence rosé with pedigree, owned by Brad Pitt and produced by one of France’s top winemaking dynasties. Whether you’re hosting a lunch or just opening something midweek, Miraval brings a touch of understated luxury. Its sleek bottle and refined style make it ideal for entertaining, gifting, or simply treating yourself on a sunny day. Arrive at any party with this and you’ll be everyone’s favourite person. This is one of my personal favourite pink wines, and I don’t wait until summer to drink it.

Something Crisp: Les Rafelières Sauvignon Blanc, €15

Not everyone loves heavy reds or oaky whites, but a bright, aromatic white tends to appeal to almost every palate. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, impromptu drinks, or just want something easy for midweek sipping, a good crisp white always fits the mood. Ripe apple, lemon zest, and juicy acidity, this is summer in a glass. It’s vibrant, crisp, and wonderfully versatile. Ideal for picnics, light lunches, or roast chicken with a twist of lemon. An easy fridge-door white to have on hand for whatever summer throws at you.

Something Fizzy: Albert des Conti Pet Nat, Bergerac, €22.25

This Pet Nat outperforms Prosecco at twice the price; it’s naturally sparkling, organic, and effortlessly cool. Produced from organically farmed Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, this wine has rich, gorgeous bubbles and a level of finesse you rarely see at this price. It’s a low-intervention, high-quality wine that brings both character and value—an easy upgrade from your standard sparkling. This low-intervention fizz has a creamy mousse and notes of citrus, green apple and pear. It feels a little celebratory, even if you’re just having friends over for brunch or popping something open on a Tuesday. A brilliant alternative to Prosecco, more character, more texture, same joyful pop.

Something Rich: Alpha Zeta ‘Terrapieno’ Pinot Grigio, €18

If you think you know Pinot Grigio, this one might surprise you. It’s fuller, silkier, and more expressive than most, with notes of pear, citrus peel, and a gentle mineral edge. Perfect for pasta, grilled fish, or evenings that call for something light but interesting. It’s incredibly versatile with food. The combination of bright acidity and subtle richness makes it a perfect all-rounder for al fresco dining and spontaneous summer meals.

Something Juicy: Bodegas Albizu, Caminante Tempranillo, €13.95

It’s red wine that works in warm weather. Unoaked Rioja is bright, juicy, and refreshingly light on its feet, perfect for when you want red wine but don’t want the heaviness. Serve it slightly chilled and you’ll get all the ripe red fruit and freshness, without the weight of oak or tannin. This unoaked red is juicy, soft, and so easy to drink. It’s fruit-forward and totally unpretentious, the kind of wine that works just as well slightly chilled on a warm day as it does with midweek dinners. Great with burgers, grilled veg, or a plate of tapas.

Something Robust: Bedoba, Saperavi, €23.95

This is not your typical summer red. Made from Georgia’s indigenous Saperavi grape, Bedoba is full-bodied and bursting with dark fruit, herbs, and spice. Partially fermented in traditional clay qvevri, it brings depth and structure without overwhelming. It’s the ideal match for grilled meats, smoky marinades, and adventurous palates—perfect when you want something with character and power, but still completely drinkable in warm weather. One for when the grill is hot and the night calls for something a bit bolder. This Georgian red is full of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of smoke. If you haven’t explored wines from Georgia before, this is a brilliant entry point—serious flavour, no fuss.