Michaels Grapevine

We have been enjoying an extended period of fine weather, maybe this is the barbecue summer we have all been waiting so long for!

A glass or two of wine is an ideal partner while enjoying alfresco dining in your garden or on your patio.  However I would like to question how much thought is given to serving the wine at the correct temperature.

People tend to overchill whites and over heat reds! 

The only valid reason for overchilling a white wine is if the wine is questionable in quality, overchilling it will numb your taste buds so you are unable to tell if it is good or bad! 

For the reds if served at the incorrect temperature it is just a waste.  Too warm the wine tastes stewed, jammy and alcoholic – not nice.  Reds on a hot day can soon get overheated, especially if there is a barbecue cranked up close by.  If you are in this situation do not be afraid to put the wine in the fridge for ten minutes or an ice bucket for a few minutes to get the wine back to its ambient temperature.

Some reds cry out to be served slightly chilled, think of the Gammay grape and Beaujolais.  Good Beaujolais is ideal summer drinking.  The Cabernet Franc grape is another variety that accommodates being served slightly cooler.  Think of the fruity reds you find in the Loire such as Chinon and Saumur Champignon.

Now for one of my particular favourites – a chilled 10 year old tawny port – drinking a glass sitting in the garden after the barbie to me is instant relaxation and contentment.

So do not be afraid to chill a red if that action is necessary.  For your guidance I list below some suggested temperatures.

Let’s hope the fine weather continues so we can enjoy our gardens with a pleasing glass in our hands.

Best reds eg Bordeaux  18 - 17ºC
Red Burgundy   17 - 16ºC
Cotes du Rhone   16 - 14ºC
Everyday reds    14 - 13ºC
Light reds    12 - 11ºC

Top white Burgundy   15 - 14ºC
Everyday whites   10 - 8ºC
Sweet whites      7 - 6ºC

Champagne    10 - 8ºC
Sparkling Wines      7 - 6ºC
Roses     10 - 8ºC
Port and Madiera   15 - 14ºC

Sherry     11ºC