A Sommelier Shares Her Favourite Summer Wines
WHITE
Manousakis 'FUMM' Athiri-Thrapsathiri, £18.50
I recently introduced this wine by the glass at Oma’s sister restaurant Agora, and it’s a pure vibe. It’s a delightful blend of two indigenous Cretan varieties and offers a crisp, dry profile that’s both refreshing and intriguing. Expect lively citrus notes, a touch of salinity and a lemon sherbet acidity. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a lively and dynamic sip, and goes well with summery salads and Mediterranean starters.
Available at MALTBY&GREEK.COM
Monfarina Domaine Giachino Jacquère 2022, £24
This wine bursts with alpine energy, with aromas of white flowers, citrus zest and wet stone, followed by a palate packed with chalk and herbs. On hot days, this wine can transport you to the cool, crisp air of the Alps. One for those who love precision, texture and freshness. Plus, it works amazingly with goat’s cheese or grilled fish.
Available at BUONVINO.CO.UK
Bodegas Gaintza, Txakoli, 2023, £21.20
Is it even summer without a good txakoli? This Spanish wine speaks of the coast with its vibrant, zesty citrus notes, reminiscent of green apple and lime, and a lively fizz. A crisp minerality, tinged with hints of sea breeze and salt, adds to its fresh and uplifting character. It’s incredibly refreshing, so pairs well with sashimi-style dishes, or simply with some nuts and olives.
Available at CAVEBRISTOL.CO.UK
ROSÉ
Entre Vinyes Oniric Rosat, £18
A perfect balance of vibrant fruit and subtle complexity, this wine is my go-to alternative to Provençal rosé. It opens with enticing aromas of ripe strawberries and redcurrants, with a note of Mediterranean rosemary. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, with lively acidity that enhances the fruit and brings out a mineral touch. Its only flaw is that it’s too easy to drink. This is another wine perfect for aperitivo time – I love it with hummus and crackers, olives and crudités.
Available at MODALWINES.COM
Rosé de Xinomavro, Thymiopoulos 2023, £13.95
This isn’t just my favourite – it’s also a hit with the team and our guests at Oma, and is sure to go down well with your friends at your next summer BBQ. It stands out with its unique aromatic complexity. It’s driven by fresh notes of wild raspberries, rose petals and a distinct tomato leaf aroma that adds an intriguing gastronomic profile. On the palate, it’s soft yet structured, with juicy red fruit balanced by savoury undertones. It’s a wine that captures both freshness and depth, with a complexity that lingers. This is your summer BBQ wine to surprise your friends with.
Available at THEWINESOCIETY.COM
Bottiglia 03, Rosato Della Serva, £14.90
This rosato is pure sun-soaked charm – the ultimate picnic wine. It opens with aromas of wild strawberries, blood orange and a hint of rose petals. On the palate, it’s juicy yet balanced. There is a rustic elegance here, like summer in the Italian countryside captured in a bottle. Enjoy it with pasta salad with prosciutto and melon.
Available at BREVEVITA.COM
SPARKLING
Filipa Pato, 3B Blanc de Blancs, NV, £19.50
This sparkling wine is the perfect choice for summer, offering a refreshing feel with every pour. It greets you with vibrant aromas of orchard fruits and a touch of white flowers. The zesty acidity and clean finish make it an ideal option when you want something light, but with enough personality to keep you going back for more. I love it with a simple white fish and a well-seasoned salad.
Available at GOODWINEGOODPEOPLE.COM
Camillo Donati, Lambrusco Rosso, £22
Lambrusco is a fantastic year-round option, but it truly shines as the perfect summer wine for those craving red on a warm day. With aromas of dark cherries, blackberries and a hint of earthy and savoury spice, it’s both refreshing and full of character. The bubbles and natural acidity provide a crisp sensation on the palate, so it’s perfect when you want a red that’s light and easy drinking, but with enough depth. Pair it with cheese and charcuterie meats.
Available at FORESTWINES.COM
Foam Vulkan, £19.79
This sparkling wine has a fresh, energising quality that’s perfect for summer. It opens with vibrant aromas of green fruits, citrus peel and a touch of wildflowers, and the bubbles give it a lively, zingy feeling on the palate that I love. The bright acidity and slight salinity make it refreshing and crisp. It’s just the kind of wine I reach for when I want something light and exciting. So good with oysters.
Available at MORENATURALWINE.CO.UK
NON-ALCOHOLIC
Sharp, Blurred Lines, £16.99
One of the best non-alcoholic wine alternatives around, this British-made sip is designed to evoke the crispness and complexity of a white wine. It offers a bright, fresh profile with subtle acidity, and layered citrus and gooseberry notes. What sets it apart is the blend of functional botanicals and adaptogens, such as poppy and clary sage, which provide a unique sensory experience and set it apart from your regular non-alcoholic beverage. It’s an excellent companion to dishes like goat’s cheese salads, grilled vegetables or light seafood.
Available at THREESPIRITDRINKS.COM
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