Looking for the perfect wine for longer, warmer days? Discover in this guide the best styles for spring — from crisp whites to fresh rosés and lighter reds.

The ideal wines for longer days, lighter meals, and outdoor toasts

Spring brings longer days, rising temperatures, and a renewed appetite for lighter meals and time outdoors. It’s also the season when fresh, aromatic, and versatile wines truly shine.

Why change your wine with the seasons?

Just like we update our wardrobe as the weather changes, the wines we drink can (and should) follow the seasons and the meals we enjoy. In spring, we naturally turn to:

  • Lighter dishes (salads, seafood, grilled foods)

  • Outdoor moments (picnics, barbecues, sunset drinks)

  • Milder temperatures (calling for more refreshing wines)

The good news? There are wines made for just that.

1. Fresh, aromatic white wines

White wines are a natural choice in spring. Serve them chilled (8–10 °C / 46–50 °F) — they pair beautifully with fish dishes, salads, or soft cheeses.

Recommended styles:

  • Arinto – crisp, mineral, with vibrant acidity. Perfect with seafood or grilled fish.

  • Loureiro – floral and citrusy, elegant, ideal with vegetarian dishes or salads.

  • Sauvignon Blanc – expressive and fresh, great with grilled vegetables or citrusy dressings.

2. Rosés: the perfect balance

Rosés combine the freshness of whites with a touch of red wine structure.

More than a trend, rosé is a top choice for sunny spring days. Serve chilled (8–10 °C / 46–50 °F), and enjoy it solo or with food. It pairs well with Mediterranean cuisine, appetizers, or light Asian dishes.

Tips:

  • Explore Portuguese rosés or classic Provence styles.

  • Go for dry, food-friendly options, not just fruity ones.

  • Great with salmon, cured ham, pasta, or fruity salads.

3. Light and versatile red wines

Red wine lovers need not worry — lighter reds can be just right for spring. Choose styles with less oak and good freshness. Serve slightly cooler than usual (14–16 °C / 57–61 °F).

Great options:

  • Dolcetto (Piedmont) – soft, fruity, great with grilled meats or vegetables.

  • Pinot Noir – elegant and food-friendly. Excellent with mushrooms, poultry, or pasta.

  • Young Baga or unoaked Tinta Roriz – vibrant and juicy, ideal with snacks or barbecues.

4. Sparkling wines: for celebrating or cooling down

Light, refreshing, and always festive — sparkling wines are perfect for spring moments.

Try these styles:

  • Brut sparkling wines from Arinto or Baga – dry, elegant, perfect as an aperitif or with sushi.

  • Prosecco or Champagne – two different expressions: Prosecco is fruitier and more approachable; Champagne is drier and more complex. Both are excellent for celebrations or late afternoons.

  • Rosé sparkling wines – versatile and fun, pairing beautifully with light meals, salads, or fruit-based desserts.

Easy spring food & wine pairings

  • Goat cheese or citrus salad – Loureiro or Sauvignon Blanc

  • Ceviche or seafood – Arinto or Brut sparkling

  • Grilled chicken or vegetables – Dry rosé or Dolcetto

  • Soft cheese or charcuterie boards – Pinot Noir or rosé sparkling

  • Picnic with assorted snacks – Fresh rosé or aromatic white

Bonus tip: serve at the right temperature

Warm weather requires extra care with wine temperature — a wine served too warm loses freshness and balance.

  • Whites & rosés: 8–10 °C / 46–50 °F

  • Light reds: 14–16 °C / 57–61 °F

  • Sparkling wines: 6–8 °C / 43–46 °F

In short: what to look for in spring wines?

  • Freshness and acidity
  • Citrus or floral aromas
  • Light to medium body
  • Easy pairing with seasonal foods

Ready to toast to spring?

Find the perfect wines for the season now at Vinha.co.uk.

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