Ah, summer. The season of sun-soaked patios, last-minute road trips, backyard BBQs, and dinners that somehow always end with “just one more glass.” It’s a time when the days are longer, the playlists are louder, and the wine is—thankfully—chilled.
At Market Wines, we think summer is all about taking it easy, but never boring. And your wine should be the same. Whether you’re cracking open something crisp for the lake, sipping something bright on the deck, or popping a bottle to share over grilled peaches and burrata, the right summer wine can elevate any moment from “nice” to “can we do this every weekend?”
So, what makes a wine summer-worthy? Glad you asked.
Fresh. Vibrant. Chillable.
Summer wines aren’t a specific style—they’re a vibe. Light on their feet, big on refreshment, and totally okay with a little ice in the glass if that’s your thing (no judgement here!). These are wines that pair beautifully with sunshine, watermelon slices, and that third round of bocce you didn’t know you’d be playing.
Think:
- Bright whites with zesty acidity
- Rosés that taste like fresh strawberries and sea spray
- Lighter reds that taste great with a good chill
- Sparkling wines (because every summer evening deserves bubbles)
Let’s break down a few go-to categories and why they deserve a permanent place in your summer rotation.
The Whites: Crisp, Cool & Ready for Anything
1. Albariño – Spain’s Secret to Beating the Heat
Our pick: Pentecostes Albarino
If summer had a soundtrack, Albariño would be playing in the background. This Albarino is dry and layered, with a complex flavour developed through lees aging. It naturally possesses high acidity, a fruity aroma, and refreshing citrus nuances, all culminating in a long and elegant finish.
2. Grüner Veltliner – Austria’s Patio Powerhouse
Our Pick: Loimer Kamptal Gruner Veltliner
This old vine, high altitude Gruner Veltliner is known for its concentrated and stony character. After fermentation and aging predominantly in large stainless tanks (with 5% in large oak barrels), the wine is rested on lees for 4 months before being blended and bottled.
On the palate, vibrant flavors of pink grapefruit, crisp honey crisp apple, and tangy tangerine are accompanied by hints of white pepper and a lingering floral finish.
Try it with Grilled Sea Bass with Garlic Butter.
3. Sauvignon Blanc – Always a Classic
Our Pick: Holy Snail Sauvignon Blanc
It’s no secret that we love a good Sauv Blanc. This is one of our top selling white wines for a reason. Sauvignon Blanc is Theirry's favourite grape to grow and vinify. The care he puts towards his Sauvignon Blanc grapes, shows through in this glass. After fermentation the grapes see some fine lees ageing which adds some richness and elegance to the wine. This aromatic wine sings of notes of gooseberry, grapefruit, Asian pear and lime. Enjoy on its own or with shellfish.
The Rosés: It’s here to stay
Dry, Bright, and Surprisingly Versatile
Rosé used to have a bad rap—too sweet, too basic, too much like something you drank at your cousin’s baby shower. Not anymore. Today’s rosés are elegant, structured, and made to be taken seriously… but not too seriously.
From Provence to Portugal, rosé is having a moment, and we are here for it. Look for bottles made from Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, or Pinot Noir for dry, refreshing styles that play nice with grilled halloumi, niçoise salad, or even a slice of cold watermelon.
Staff Pick: Chateau La Negly 3L Boxed Rosé
This barely pink rose is destined for beach, poolside and garden parties. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with notes of melon, nectarine with bright pink grapefruit lip smacking freshness. The blend of this rosé is Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. Plus, with a 3L box, it’s easy to just grab one glass instead of having to open a whole bottle. We love it!
The Reds: Yes, You Can Drink Red in Summer
Lighter, Chiller, Fruitier
Look, we get it. Summer isn’t the season for oaky Cab Sauv or your dad’s cellar-aged Bordeaux. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up reds altogether. Some of the most food-friendly, refreshing reds are just waiting for a 30-minute chill in your fridge and a seat at your picnic table.
1. Frappato – The best Chillable Red
Our pick: Fonda Filara Frappato
Frappato could possibly be the best grape you've never heard of! Found in the southern reaches of Sicily this light-bodied red is both lively and soft, oozing with notes of fresh raspberry and blueberry. All of that fruit is balanced with earthy and clove notes and a long bright finish.
This perfect movie-night sipper is also organic and vegan!
2. Pinot Noir – Light, Elegant, and Always a Winner
Our pick: Jeff Carrel ‘En Coteaux’ Pinot Noir
When in doubt, Pinot it out. This is one of our shop favourites! Easy drinking, light and fresh. With notes of red cherries, strawberries and dried roses. Enjoy on its own or with friends.
3. Lambrusco – Fizzy Red Happiness
Our pick: Bruno Zanasi Lambrusco
Yes, it’s red. Yes, it’s sparkling. And yes, it’s delicious. This wine is made from 100% certified organic Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro grapes from Modena, with a residual sugar level of 10g/L. It represents the finest selection of hilly grapes from Zanasi's centennial tradition. A true masterpiece, it combines expert techniques with the essence of nature.
The Sparklings: Because Every Summer Needs Bubbles
There’s something magical about bubbles in the summer. They lift the mood, the palate, and frankly, the entire day. You don’t need a celebration—just a couple of clean glasses and a reason to toast.
1. Canadian Sparkling - Because it’s cool to support Canadian
Our pick: Dirty Laundry Brut Chardonnay
Made from 100% Chardonnay and aged for 3.5 years on lees this Brut has delightful aromas of golden apples, fresh rosemary and buttered croissants. On the palate there is medium acidity with notes of lemon zest and ripe green apples. Pair with seafood in a white wine cream sauce or with your favourite selection of hard cheeses.
2. Crémant – Champagne’s Cool Cousin
Our pick: Lambert Cremant
Made with the same traditional method but outside the Champagne region, Crémant gives you the elegance of Champagne without the price tag. A favourite among staff and customers alike. Expertly crafted Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay blend from Loire Valley. Winemaker Arnaud Lambert lets the terroir and grapes speak for themselves, resulting in a vivacious, fresh and toasty finish.
Fish and chips or fried chicken is an ideal pair for this crispy sparkling wine.
3. Prosecco – Always in Style
Our pick: Borga Prosecco Brut
Crisp and vibrant pale yellow with full perlage. Captivating scents of acacia and elderflower, accompanied by white peach, apple, and hints of aromatic herbs. A light and refreshing taste with well-balanced softness and juicy fruit. Finishes with a touch of saltiness and enticing fragrance. Have it with brunch and mimosas!
Our Pro Tips for Summer Sipping
- Keep It Cool: Whites and rosés are best between 6–10°C. Light reds? Aim for 12–15°C. A quick 20-minute chill in the fridge can work wonders.
- Glass Matters (Sort Of): No need for fancy stemware—just something clean, cool, and comfy in your hand. Even a Mason jar works in a pinch.
- Don’t Overthink It: Summer wine is meant to be enjoyed, not analyzed. If you like it, it’s a good wine. Simple as that.
Can’t Decide?
Why not give our Case of the Month a try? All the summer wines, none of the thinking. These wines are hand-selected by our staff, to give you a little taste of everything summer. Just think of it as your secret summer weapon. Learn more about the Case of the Month here. Oh, and did we mention, if you order it online you get free delivery to your doorstep!
Final Sip
Summer doesn’t last forever, but the memories do. Let’s make them delicious.
So grab your corkscrew (or screwcap), fill your cooler, and let the summer sipping begin. Whether you’re lakeside, fireside, or just stretched out on your front porch with the dog, there’s a perfect wine for that. And we’re here to help you find it.
Cheers to summer—may your glass always be half full and your fridge always stocked.