Al Fresco Wining

There’s nothing quite like dining outside in the warm weather. Here’s what you should know wine-wise. First of all, choose wines that are fruity, robust, hearty and crisp, with little, if any, oak. The smell of lawn mowers, gas fumes, charcoal, grass, and other outside aromatics will only rob these of their finesse, so save the complex, oaky or delicate numbers for indoor or cooler weather enjoyment.  Secondly, chill all whites more than usual to combat the heat. An ice bucket, half filled with water and ice should suffice. You can even put reds in the bucket for a short while just to cool them down. There’s nothing worse than a soupy red wine. Finally, sip responsibly, as you’ll feel the alcohol more in the heat.