Long, sun-soaked afternoons, leisurely barbecues, picnics in the park and al fresco dinners all have one thing in common — they're even better with the right wine in hand. Summer is the perfect time to move away from heavier reds and embrace lighter, brighter styles that complement the season's fresh flavours and relaxed pace.
From crisp whites and refreshing rosés to elegant sparkling wines and lightly chilled reds, there's something for every occasion and every palate. Whether you're hosting friends in the garden, heading to the beach, or simply unwinding after a warm day, the right bottle can elevate the moment.
We've rounded up some of the best wines to enjoy this summer, showcasing everything from crowd-pleasing classics to exciting new discoveries. So grab a glass, find a sunny spot, and discover your next favourite summer sip...
Faustino V Rioja Reserva, £12.50
This smooth Rioja Reserva is the ultimate BBQ companion. Rich enough to stand up to smoky grilled meats but smooth enough for a sunny afternoon in the garden, the Faustino V Rioja Reserva landed the #6 spot on Wine Enthusiast's 'Top 100 Best Buys'.
Viña Bujanda Promesa Viura 2024, £11.90
Bright and clear with a pale lemon hue and green highlights. Fresh aromas of green apple, pineapple and white blossom lead into a smooth, rounded palate, lifted by crisp freshness and finishing clean with soft orchard fruit and delicate floral notes. Pair with grilled white fish, shellfish or soft cheeses.
Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut NV, £22.95
This Crémant de Loire produces a lively, full mousse with tangy citrus, slatey minerals and racy acidity. Pairs well with rich or fatty foods, as well as oysters or olives.
11 Minutes Rose by Pasqua, £17.50
A pale, elegant rosé that combines freshness and drinkability with a subtle layer of texture and spice. Made from a blend of Corvina, Trebbiano, Syrah and Carmenère grown near Lake Garda, the wine offers delicate floral aromas alongside crisp red berry fruit, gentle spice and refreshing acidity.
La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi 2020, £20
Intensely aromatic of raspberries, blueberries, red plums and redcurrants that give way to balsamic notes of vanilla, nutmeg, caramel and hazelnut. There is balance, freshness, and a lovely, smooth, rounded finish. Perfect companion to barbecues, rice dishes, stews and grilled fish.
Faustino I Gran Reserva, £18.50
This Gran Reserva is best enjoyed over a beautifully decorated cheeseboard. This bottle is a polished, elegant Rioja that feels special from the very first pour. It's an ideal gift when you want to impress, and unsurprisingly, it's also the world's best-selling Gran Reserva Rioja.
Domaine Breton Vouvray Brut NV, £28
Produced in the Vouvray region, renowned for its high-quality Chenin Blanc grapes, this wine is made in the Méthode Champenoise, resulting in fine bubbles and an exquisite bouquet. The aroma is fruity and floral with notes of citrus, green apple and honey. On the palate, the wine is crisp and well-balanced with a lively acidity and a creamy mouthfeel.
Faustino V Tempranillo Rioja, £9.75
Fresh and easy drinking, this bright rosé is made for slow afternoons in the garden or casual picnics in the park. Crisp and versatile, it's a relaxed summer wine that works just as well on its own as it does alongside light seasonal dishes. And, to be honest, you can never go wrong with a Tempranillo.
Bodegas Baigorri Blanco Fermentado en, £17.89
On the nose, it exhibits expressive aromas of ripe white fruit, enhanced with balsamic and slightly spicy notes resulting from its oak ageing. On the palate, working with the lees confers creaminess and complexity. Elegant and balanced right from first contact to its long, lasting finish. Pair with cured meats, cheeses and summer sharing platters.
Bodegas Zinio Rioja Street Art Tempranillo Blanco, £25.50
Golden yellow, clean and bright. Aromas typical of its ageing in barrique. White flowers, citrus fruits, aromatic notes of mixed fruit salad and fine toasted notes of French oak and acacia wood appear. Aromas of orange blossom, white pears, golden apples and freshly baked brioche. Pairs beautifully with fresh prawns, oysters and light seafood plates.
Palmer & Co Rose Solera, £49
Palmer & Co Rosé Solera is an elegant and expressive rosé Champagne that combines freshness and precision with layers of ripe red berry fruit and delicate spice. Blending Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier, the wine is enriched with a perpetual reserve of red wine — a signature element of the House style that adds depth, consistency and complexity.
