The best summer wine: what to drink when the sun is shining

Fresh and fruity: Weisser Burgunder 2023 – Arndt Köbelin

This white pinot from Baden has everything you could want from a summer wine: lightness, fine fruit and good drinkability. Arndt Köbelin’s 2023 vintage impresses with citrus and peach aromas and a hint of minerality. Ideal with grilled vegetables, fish or a goat’s cheese salad. A truly versatile wine – and definitely a contender for the title of best summer wine.

Sun in the glass: Marsanne & Roussanne in comparison

While pinot blanc is synonymous with freshness, marsanne and roussanne offer more richness and depth – perfect for summer dishes with substance. Two exciting examples:

• Serrabacio 2022 – Serraiola: A Tuscan interpretation of the Rhône classic with notes of ripe pear, honey and wild herbs. Textured, but not heavy.

• Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2016 – Clos des Papes: A complex white wine for laying down, with floral, stone fruit and almond aromas and a creamy finish. Goes well with chicken, seafood or mature cheeses.

Both are impressive examples of how Marsanne-Roussanne can age and gain depth. For special occasions, Clos des Papes is a true summit.

Sparkling moments: sparkling wines for summer

What would summer be without a glass of sparkling wine? Whether for toasting or simply for pleasure, sparkling wines make every occasion special:

• Pinot Brut Winzersekt – Arndt Köbelin: A fine German Sekt – dry, clear and elegant. Made from pinot noir, pinot blanc and pinot gris, with notes of apple, brioche and citrus. Perfect as an aperitif or with sushi.

• Champagne La Grande Année 2015 – Bollinger: For festive moments. This vintage champagne is complex, powerful and refined. Ideal with oysters or a romantic dinner.

Elegant or casual, they are both serious contenders for the title of best summer wine when it comes to sparkling wines.