Wine
Perfect Pairings: Versatile Whites & Rosés for Spring Gatherings
May 15, 2025
No spring gathering is complete without a case (or few) of wine, and sticking with versatile bottles that will satisfy a group of various preferences is key. Whether commemorating birthdays, graduations, or other seasonal celebrations, seeking out refreshing whites and rosés is always a safe bet—and our expert team of sommeliers is sharing why. Discover which styles of wine make the best choices for seasonal celebrations, as well as dive into a list of our team’s go-to recommendations, here.
High Acidity: The Key to Freshness
When it comes to seeking out refreshing whites and rosés for spring gatherings, finding bottles with high acidity is key, as it keeps your palate quenched while simultaneously inviting the next sip. “For spring gatherings, versatility is key—think wines that are fresh, food-friendly, and crowd-pleasing,” says Elyse Lovenworth, Lead Sommelier at Sommsation. When looking for white wines that fit the bill, Lovenworth typically seeks out subtle and refreshing varieties, as opposed to bolder or polarizing grapes.
With regards to rosé, Lovenworth recommends looking at Provence-style bottlings (generally made with Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and/or Mourvèdre). “They’re perfect for sipping or pairing with a wide variety of spring dishes,” she says. Additionally, Lovenworth highlights that bottlings made from Pinot Noir can offer a light, more crisp style of rosé. “The tasting notes differ slightly with more of an emphasis on strawberry, cherry, and citrus,” she says, deeming this style of rosé as very food-friendly, and often a general crowd-pleaser.
Go-To White Grapes for Spring Gatherings
“Spring brings a lot of new and fresh vegetables, as well as hotter days, and there’s nothing better than a cold and light bottle of wine to help with the heat that can also match the intensity and freshness of the foods being consumed,” says Hugo Arias, Sommelier at Sommsation. For these scenarios, Arias often reaches for Riesling or Grüner Veltliner, as well as Sauvignon Blanc, Arneis, or Sémillon. Similarly, Master Sommelier Michael Meagher, recommends Grüner Veltliner and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as Albariño. “These varieties shine at spring gatherings thanks to their zippy acidity, fresh citrus notes, and clean finishes,” he says.
Lovenworth notes that while often overlooked due to mass production, small-production Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio should be a front-runner for spring gatherings, along with Sémillon. “Sémillon is an incredible white variety native to Bordeaux, France but grown all over the world,” she explains, describing the wines as generally lighter bodied with vibrant acidity and beautiful minerality.
“They’re not usually as fruity or citrus-forward as a lot of mainstream white wines,” she notes, making it a unique and satisfying option for those looking for something slightly different.
Rosé & Food: A Match Made in Heaven
Beyond its reputation for poolside sipping, rosé is actually one of the most versatile styles of wine for pairing with food, especially in the realm of spring and summer fare. “Rosé strikes a balance between the freshness of white wine and the structure of red, making it incredibly food-friendly,” Meagher explains, citing its acidity and subtle red fruit flavors as perfect for complementing everything from grilled vegetables and seafood to charcuterie and spicy dishes.
“Dry styles are especially versatile, acting like a flavor chameleon across a wide range of spring and summer fare,” Meagher says. Arias agrees, highlighting the style’s ability to pair well with tricky ingredients, including green vegetables and spice. “Rosé has high acid and freshness, but also fruitiness and a tiny bit of tannin, so you can match a lot of different foods with it—it’s a very versatile type of wine,” he says.
Similarly, Lovenworth cites the combination of red and white wine characteristics found in rosé, which lends it quite useful in the realm of food and wine pairing. “Rosé is typically lighter than red wine but has more structure than many white wines, offering versatility in flavor and body,” she says. Above all, Lovenworth notes that most rosés have bright and fresh acidity, which helps cleanse the palate and cut through rich, fatty, or salty foods.
Our Expert Sommeliers’ Recommendations:
Oxlee Graham Wines 2023 Elinor's Alder Springs Vineyard White Blend
“The 2023 Elinor’s White Blend from Oxlee Graham is a vibrant, food-friendly wine that balances the textured richness of Chenin Blanc with the zesty lift of Picpoul Blanc. Sourced from Alder Springs Vineyard, it offers crisp orchard fruit, citrus, and a mineral edge—perfect for spring and summer gatherings.” - Elyse Lovenworth, Lead Sommelier at Sommsation
Van Duzer Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir Rosé
“This Oregon rosé offers a vibrant nose of strawberry, raspberry, and guava, complemented by hints of persimmon and bright grapefruit. Its crisp acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an ideal companion for spring dishes like grilled salmon or fresh salads.” Michael Meagher, Master Sommelier
Ricochet Pinot Blanc 2023
“This wine delivers that fruity and floral note with nice acidity and minerality. Very refreshing and super food friendly.” - Hugo Arias, Sommelier at Sommsation
Andis Wines 2023 Sémillon Bill Dillian Vineyard
“The 2023 Sémillon from Andis Wines’ Bill Dillian Vineyard is a beautifully structured white with vibrant acidity and a silky texture, showcasing notes of citrus blossom, honeydew, and a touch of lanolin. Its balance of freshness and depth makes it a standout for both casual sipping and elevated pairing.” - Elyse Lovenworth, Lead Sommelier at Sommsation
Alexana Winery Estate Riesling
“Hailing from Oregon’s Dundee Hills, this dry Riesling showcases bright acidity with notes of honeysuckle, lemon zest, and green apple. Its vibrant profile and slight barrel fermentation make it versatile for pairing with a wide variety of spring fare.” - Michael Meagher, Master Sommelier
Whetstone Wine Cellars 2024 Silvaspoons Rosé of Grenache
“The 2024 Silvaspoons Rosé of Grenache from Whetstone Wine Cellars is a bright, elegant expression with juicy strawberry, watermelon, and a hint of citrus zest. It is a beautiful pale pink, dry, crisp, and refreshing, it’s an ideal companion for a late spring afternoon. It is basically sunshine in a glass.” - Elyse Lovenworth, Lead Sommelier at Sommsation
Suisun Creek Rosé 2023
“This wine is made with 100% Charbono grapes and this translates into a stunning color and lots of berry aromas with a refreshing palate and great concentration of flavor.”- Hugo Arias, Sommelier at Sommsation
Xanadu Vinework Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
“This Margaret River blend presents lively citrus flavors, guava, lemon thyme, and a touch of spice. Its medium body and purity of fruit make it a refreshing choice for outdoor gatherings and light spring meals.” - Michael Meagher, Master Sommelier
Stringer Cellars 2023 Babbling Brook Rosé of Mourvèdre
“The 2023 Babbling Brook Rosé of Mourvèdre from Stringer Cellars is a flirty wine. It is bursting with juicy red berries, a splash of citrus, and just enough sass to keep you coming back. It’s dry, lively, and dangerously easy to drink... consider yourself warned.” - Elyse Lovenworth, Lead Sommelier at Sommsation
