Throw the Perfect Summer BBQ with these Delightful Wine Pairings

Summer is finally here - the season for grilling and spending time with your loved ones at BBQ’s and pool days galore. Whether you’re hosting or toasting at this year’s summer celebrations, you can easily elevate any get-together with mouthwatering wine and food pairings that will have your guests asking for more.

From juicy hamburgers to zesty chicken wings and refreshing pasta salads, we've cooked up a list of wine pairings to perfectly complement your BBQ spread. So grab a glass, fire up the grill, and let's dive into these impressive BBQ wines!

Hamburgers + Malbec
The robust flavors of an Argentinian Malbec are a perfect match for mouthwatering burgers. The mild tannins and fruit forwardness of the wine complements the juicy, savory meatiness of the burger. Plus the bun will help balance some of the slightly higher alcohol level. Prepare to be swimming in compliments as you serve up this winning combination.

Sommsation recommends: Corazon del Sol 2020 Uco Valley Malbec

Hot Dogs + Pet Nat
For those classic hot dogs, embrace the unexpected with a bottle of Ricochet 2022 Le Ressort Petillant-Naturel. Its effervescence and unconventional style will add a touch of playfulness to your BBQ. And just like a hot dog, Pet Nat wines can be unpredictably fun, funky, and a little wild, which never disappoints.

Sommsation recommends: Ricochet 2022 Le Ressort Petillant - Naturel

Spicy BBQ Chicken Wings + Glou Glou
When it comes to spicy BBQ chicken wings, you need a wine that can handle the heat and still keep things light. This unique style wine known as “Glou Glou” is made using the zinfandel grape and a winemaking technique known as carbonic maceration. Although this is a red wine, it drinks much lighter than you might expect. It’s truly a top choice for pairing with any BBQ foods, and sipping on all day!

Sommsation recommends: Tinto Amorio 2022 Jajaja Glou Glou

Pesto Tortellini Pasta salad with Cherry Tomatoes & Radish + Pinot Gris
Enhance the freshness of a pesto tortellini pasta salad with a glass of Authentique 2020 Leisure Barrel Aged Pinot Gris. Although this pinot gris pairs well with almost everything and is a top choice for summer sipping, its crispness and drinkability truly shine when enjoyed alongside a fresh pesto pasta salad. The wine's vibrant acidity and subtle fruit notes will complement the flavors of cherry tomatoes and radish, creating a harmonious symphony of taste.

Sommsation recommends: Authentique 2020 Leisure Barrel Aged Pinot Gris

Italian Potato Salad with Garlic, Basil & Grilled Red Onions + Chardonnay
An Italian Potato salad is more about the Potato and not about the mayo, so pairing this side dish with a creamier style Chardonnay will enhance its flavors. With its lush texture and balanced oak influence, this Sleight of Hands Chardonnay is a perfect companion to the earthy garlic, fragrant basil, and grilled red onions for a delightful marriage of flavors.

Sommsation recommends: The Enchantress Chardonnay, 2021

As you get prepared for your summer BBQs, remember that the right wine and food pairings can take your gathering to new heights. These impressive BBQ wines, ranging from robust Malbec to playful Pet Nat and refreshing Pinot Gris, will truly enhance the flavors of your favorite BBQ dishes. So whether you're indulging in juicy burgers, zesty chicken wings, or vibrant pasta salads, these selections from our independent wineries will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests in awe.

Cheers to a summer filled with good food, great company, and exceptional wines!