Ohhhhh, baby, it’s HOT outside! “Porch pounders" to the rescue. What are porch pounders, you may ask? The term describes wines that are deliciously easy to drink, often lower in alcohol, and perfect for a day at the beach, a night on the balcony or just hanging out on a neighbor’s front porch.
Verde Vibes
Vinho Verde is a current favorite among white wines. Interestingly, it's not a grape variety but a style of Portuguese wine, particularly from the Vinho Verde region in northern Portugal. It translates to “green wine,” referring not to the color, but to how quickly it goes from production to shelf. These wines are typically bottled within three to six months, resulting in a light, crisp and slightly effervescent style. Vinho Verde can produce red, white or rosé wines. The grapes are often grown on trellises—or even telephone poles! Expect flavors that are slightly fruity and earthy. At Lolita’s, Aveleda Fonte Vinho Verde, a white variety, is a favorite pick for its affordability and easy-drinking style.
Rethink Riesling
Ah, Riesling. Many wine lovers claim they’d never drink one—but it's worth reconsidering.
Riesling comes in a range of sweetness levels and dry versions, often labeled Trocken or Selection. These versions are far less sweet than you might expect. Dry Riesling makes a great brunch wine and Riesling blends are delightful sippers too.
Typically low in alcohol but mouth-wateringly crisp, Riesling offers flavors of green apple and pear. Later-harvested Rieslings can also show citrus or peach tones.
While Riesling is best known from Germany and Austria, New York’s Finger Lakes region is producing some excellent options. A recent favorite, recommended by Merryk at Cellar Masters, was the Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard Field White from the Finger Lakes.
Refined Roots
Sauvignon Blanc—also well-known as Sancerre when it is from France—is one of the most beloved white varietals, particularly from the Loire Valley.
Sauvignon Blanc is grown worldwide but the most popular and uniquely different expressions come from the areas of the Loire Valley (France), Marlborough (New Zealand) and California (where it’s sometimes labeled Fumé Blanc).
Each region and climate exude unique qualities, which are beautifully reflected in the flavor of the grape. Cooler climates bring out grassy, green pepper or grapefruit notes, while warmer regions create fruitier profiles with flavors such as peach, kiwi or passion fruit. These wines are crisp, fresh and perfect for sipping in the sun.
Looking for something bolder? I recently tried Grgich Hills Fumé Blanc from the Napa Valley and it blew me away. Aromatic with tropical fruit and finishing dry and clean, it’s ideal for a relaxing evening watching the sunset.
Rosé All Day
Summer is when red wines take a lighter, more playful form—as rosé. Made from the same grapes and often using the same initial process, rosé gets its pink hue from the skin of the grapes, which are removed once the desired color and flavor is reached.
These wines are fresh, bright and have a crisp, zesty taste. They're made to be enjoyed now.
Top picks include rosés from Provence (France) and Barbera d’Alba (Italy). Provence, located northeast of Marseille, produces elegant, dry rosés from grapes like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. They offer notes of strawberry, watermelon, rose petal and honeydew melon. A standout is Figuière Magali Côtes de Provence, available at Tampa’s Redneck Wine Company.
Rosados or Rosatos from D’Alba—known for Nebbiolo, Barbera and Barolo—are equally compelling. These wines offer bigger and bolder aromas, vibrant flavors and a rich texture, making them both refreshing and great with cheese. They tend to be more fruit-forward than the refined rosés of Provence. One of my favorites comes from winemaker Daniele Conterno, who crafts a standout Rosado from Barbera grapes—just a glass of pure deliciousness.
Spice Things Up
This summer's hottest (and coolest) trend lighting up Instagram is all about giving your white wine a spicy twist. Known as “spicy sauv” or “spicy rosé,” the trick is simple—just drop a few frozen jalapeño slices into your glass. They chill the wine without watering it down and add just a hint of heat, especially if you take out the seeds.
Like a Spicy Margarita? This might be an unexpected way to bring a different kind of heat this summer. Fans of New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs will especially love this combo and I suggest giving Ponga Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough a try. While strict traditionalists might roll their eyes, those with a sense of adventure will know it’s all in good fun. Whichever you are, raise your glass and enjoy a taste of summer. Cheers to you!
To learn more about Lolita’s, visit lolitaswinemarket.com
