Top Ten Patio Wines for 2011

10. 2008 Foris Gewurztraminer (dry, Alscace style) If you've never had a dry Gewurztraminer, it is time!  This Alsatian-style Oregon beauty is a great foray into the world of dry varietals that are traditionally sweet (like Riesling and Gewurztraminer).

9.  Bouchard Aine & Fils Pinot Noir (serve slightly chilled)  The only red to make my list, this is a lean, Eurpean-style Pinot made to drink a little cooler than room temperature.  It is also extremely food-friendly with most things off the grill.

8. 2010 Andeluna Torrentes (Argentina) This is crisp, refreshing, and everything a patio wine should be.  YUM.

7. Vivanco Rose (Spain, very dry) Dry roses are amazing in the summer.  Give pink wine a chance! This tempranillo/garnacha blend is fresh and fruity on the palette, but not sweet at all.

6. 2010 Frisk Sparkling Riesling (off-dry) Slightly sparkling, this riesling has nice acidity and great balance.  It is off-dry, meaning it has some residual sugar that results in a hint of sweetness on the palette.

5. 2009 Colosi Bianco (Italy)  This Sicilian blend is herbaceous and grassy. Yum!

4. Chateau des Karantes Dry Rose (France) Grenache, Mouvedre, and Syrah make this wine a traditional French delight.  It will be featured on the Fanning-Bowman patio all summer long.

3. Allen Scott Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) This new world wine is my favorite example of a grassy, citrusy Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.  Great with spicy food, it cleanses even the stickiest summer palette.

2. Husch Chenin Blanc (Anderson Valley, CA) Husch Winery is nestled in beautiful, lush Anderson Valley.  They make a variety of amazing wines, but this one is our favorite for summer.  It is off-dry, soft, and round, pairing beautifully with summer fish, chicken, and lighter pork dishes.

1. Carbo Cava (Spain) Let's end the list with a pop.  This is a beautiful cava that does everything well.  From standing alone to mixing with St. Germain, Pama, or any juice, you just can't go wrong. 

Thanks to Brad Sullivan from Carroll Wine & Spirits for some of his recommendations (always great!).  All of these wines are under $15, so they are great for everyday BBQs, pop-in guests, or any ordinary night of the week.  Summer is a time to celebrate all of our good fortunes and blessings on patios everywhere.  Cheers!