foodwineclick

Summer is NOT Over!
Even in Minnesota, we have a few weeks of good weather left. It’s not too late to enjoy the patio with friends. While you might think Old World wines are serious and not the place for a casual get together, you’d be wrong. Old World wines love a party.

These Old World wines love a party!

Saber that Crémant de Loire
One guaranteed way to kick-start a party is to open a bottle of sparkling wine, even better when someone is willing to try their hand with the saber!

Every one of the wines here deserves a place at a gathering. They are all fun and appeal to a wide variety of tastes. No old-world funk (I love it, but it’s not for everyone), easy tannins, and tastes for all palates. (click on any photo for slide show, escape to return)

Gratien & Meyer Crémant de Loire (SRP $15) – Who doesn’t enjoy a glass of pink bubbles? This sparkling rosé was a hit with our crowd and was quickly emptied.

Schloss Johannisberg Gelblack (SRP $30) – Feinherb translates as half-dry or off-dry. While few will admit it, many people enjoy an off-dry wine. Why not give them a lovely example?

Bollicini sparkling Rosé in a can is delicious and just plain fun. You can certainly drink it from the can, or put it in a glass to enjoy the color and the sparkle (SRP $12/4-pack)

Bollicini Brut (SRP $12/4-pack) – These single serving cans of Italian sparkling wine are light, crisp and refreshing! Combine that with the convenient and attractive packaging – and you’re the true star at the next pool party, BBQ, picnic, or camp outing. Straws are optional!

Pertinace Barbera d’Alba (SRP $15) – This red is ideal for your next BBQ as it pairs well with a variety of grilled meats. The blackberry and black cherry fruit flavors lead to a long, lingering finish.

Capezzana Barco Reale (SRP $15) – The bright red fruit flavors of this Sangiovese dominant blend are sure to please the crowd. The lush, velvety texture and dark berry fruit flavors lends to the wines versatility and pairs well with an array of dishes including pastas, red and white meat entrees.

We enjoyed these wines over dinner with a multi-generational gathering of friends, and everyone was happy with the offerings.

Dry and sweet, sparkling, still, red and white; something for every taste.

Dinner included pasta, grilled chicken, salad and corn. Whether you preferred white or red, there was a wine to pair with your dinner.

Disclosure: The wines were provided as samples for evaluation. All opinions expressed are mine. Thanks to Mionetto USA for these fun and affordable summer wines!