summer wine series: refreshing whites
Summer calls for wines that refresh, not weigh you down. There's a whole world of crisp, bright whites just waiting to become your new warm-weather obsession.
The secret to a great summer white? It's all about balance. You want something with noteworthy characteristics, but light enough that you can sip it from lunch straight through sunset without feeling heavy. Think bright acidity that makes your mouth water, fresh fruit flavors that taste like sunshine, and that perfect chill factor that makes every glass feel like a mini vacation.
Ready to discover your new go-tos? We highlight a few of our favorites below. 🥂
sauvignon blanc
Insight
Traditionally Sauvignon Blancs hail from cooler climates, like France, Chile and New Zealand resulting in an herbal, zesty wine with plenty of minerality. Warmer climates of California, Australia and Washington State produce a fruitier expression
elements
Light Body | Dry + Crisp | Grass, Green Bell Peppers + Nettles | Tropical Fruit and Floral
great for
When you want the creamy and buttery character of Chardonnay but without all the fruit.
Pinot Grigio
insight
Pinot Grigio, also known as Pinot Gris, is known for two styles: the “spicy” full-bodied Alsatian and lighter-bodied, more acidic Italian. New World regions such as Australia, Washington, and Oregon typically yield the Alsatian style.
elements
Medium to Full Body | Dry + Crisp | Floral Aromas + Minerality | Apple + Pear
great for
A hot summer’s day when you want a zesty white wine instead of a cold glass of lemonade
Grüner Veltliner
Insight
This Austrian superstar, Grüner Veltliner, brings a savory "white pepper" kick to the party. While it’s most at home in Austria, you'll find exciting versions from places like New Zealand and the US, proving this grape is as versatile as it is refreshing.
Elements
Medium Body | Dry + Zesty | White Pepper | Citrus + Stone Fruit
Great For
When you're looking for a refreshing, food-friendly white that's a step beyond the usual suspects, or if you want to impress your friends with an intriguing and versatile grape.
Chardonnay
insight
Wines made from Chardonnay grapes from California and Australia tend to have a more prevalent oaky flavor than their brethren from regions in France like Chablis, Montrachet, and White Burgundy.
elements
Medium Body | Buttery Mouthfeel | Citrus | Hazelnut
great for
Going old school and giving Chardonnay another chance by stripping away the oaky reputation it got in the 90s.
With summertime parties in mind, we’ve curated a few things for you that we love in the mini-shop below. In each post’s mini-shop, we share creative add-ons that we would use ourselves to brighten any party. Since we know hosting can come up on you quickly, we try to suggest party pieces with quick delivery… just in case your party is this weekend. There’s still time to turn it up a notch!
If none of these white wines sound up your alley, our Party Animals community forum is a great resource to find wine recommendations, as well as fresh + new cocktail ideas. It’s the go-to place for professional and residential party hosts to share and discover ideas, virtually eliminating the guesswork for effortless hosting.
The Drink Calculator was developed by the powerhouse events team at Craven + Co to give summertime party hosts everywhere a quick + easy way to build a shopping list to make the perfect bar.
MATH IS HARD. PARTYING SHOULDN’T BE.
p.s. We may earn a small commission from affiliate links on items we curate for you & recommend, at no extra cost to you. 💜