Chill Wines to Keep You Cool All Summer Long

If you’re wondering what to sip when it’s hot outside and you’ve already had your fill of margaritas and hard seltzers, I’ve got you. This lineup of refreshing wines is made for summer weather and easy living—whether you’re grilling, beach lounging, or just trying not to melt.

So this summer, let’s switch it up! Put the seltzer down (just for a second) and show some love to wine. It’s delicious, versatile, and honestly, way more fun to pair with food.

Gamay

Think of Gamay as Pinot Noir’s easygoing cousin who wears linen and always brings the best snacks to the picnic. It’s light, juicy, and tastes great with a chill. You’ll usually get notes of berries, florals, and a whisper of spice. It’s an unexpected but fantastic match for grilled salmon or even a salmon sushi roll. Yes, I’ve tried it. No, it’s not weird.

Rosé

No summer wine list is complete without a good rosé. The dry, crisp kind with fresh berry flavors and zingy acidity is perfect for hot days. Look for rosés from cool climates like Willamette Valley, Provence, or even coastal California. These are perfect with summer salads, grilled veggies, or absolutely nothing at all. Rosé doesn’t need a reason.

Etna Bianco (Carricante)

Wanna impress your friends? Bring a bottle of Etna Bianco to the next hang. It’s made from Carricante grapes grown near an actual volcano in Sicily, and it tastes like sea breezes and lemon zest. This one leans mineral and citrusy rather than fruity, which makes it a great match for grilled seafood, chicken, or even sushi night.

Pét Nat

Short for Pétillant Naturel, this is basically wine’s way of saying “let’s get fizzy.” It’s an ancient method of making sparkling wine, and it’s always a little wild, a little fun, and full of personality. I love a Riesling-based Pét Nat in the summer because it’s crisp, bubbly, and perfect with salty snacks or fried chicken. Feeling adventurous? Try it with something spicy and prepare to have your tastebuds wake up.

Wine Spritzers

If you just can’t quit the can, wine spritzers are the best of both worlds. They’re bubbly, low ABV, and come in flavors like grapefruit, blood orange, and lemon. Perfect for beach days, BBQs, or concerts where you need something portable and tasty. Honestly, they go with just about anything, especially hot dogs and chips.