Discover the Ideal Refreshing Wine Styles for Hot Days, Light Meals and Relaxed Moments
Summer calls for freshness — in food, in drinks and at the table. And when it comes to wine, certain styles truly shine during the season. At Vinha.pt, we help you find the perfect wine for every occasion — and summer is no exception.
Whether it’s on a seaside terrace or at a sunset dinner, there’s a perfect wine to match the best summer moments.
What to Look for in a Summer Wine
On hot days, the most appreciated wines share a few key characteristics:
Freshness and bright acidity
Moderate alcohol
Fruity or floral aromas
Lightness and balance
These features make wine more drinkable, refreshing, and suitable for seasonal dishes.
Ideal Wine Styles for Summer
Vinhos Verdes
Light, citrusy whites with crisp acidity and often a gentle natural spritz. Perfect with salads, seafood or sushi.
Try an aromatic Loureiro or an elegant Alvarinho.
Rosés
Fresh, fruity and highly versatile. Rosés pair well with salads, vegetarian dishes, grilled fish or even white meats.
Look for rosés from Vinho Verde, Alentejo or Douro with notes of strawberry and herbs.
Sparkling Wines
Great for toasting in the heat! Light, dry and vibrant, sparkling wines bring instant refreshment and joy.
Vinho Verde sparklings are an excellent pick.
Light and Mineral Whites
Grapes like Arinto, Encruzado or Fernão Pires offer gastronomic, vibrant wines — perfect with oysters or ceviche.
Avoid heavy oaked or high-alcohol wines during this time.
Light Reds, Served Chilled
Yes, reds have a place in summer too — as long as they’re lighter, with smooth tannins and some acidity.
Try a palhete or a red with soft tannins.
Serving Tips
Serve whites and rosés between 8 ºC and 12 ºC
Light reds can be served at 14 ºC
Use appropriate glassware and avoid putting ice directly in the wine
When in Doubt, Go by Occasion
Brunch with friends: Light rosé or brut sparkling
Seaside snacks: Vinho Verde white or sparkling
Outdoor dinner: Skin-contact white or dry rosé
Summer barbecue: Chilled red or palhete
Shop with Confidence at Vinha.co.uk
Explore our range of summer wines — fresh, elegant and perfect to celebrate the season.
