Teaching Winery - Top Five Wines for Summer

It is official--summer has finally arrived! Along with the sizzling hot weather, the summer season brings with it the opportunity to get together with family and friends for backyard barbecues, patio parties and the enjoyment of food and drink.

Here are my 'Top Five Wines for Summer' produced here at Niagara College Teaching Winery that are guaranteed to be a hit at any backyard bash this summer.

2007 Unoaked Chardonnay

A very light white wine with beautiful aromas of citrus and pear. Flavours of green apple and fresh lemon dance on the palate and concludes with crisp and refreshing finish.

Try this wine with grilled scallops, shrimp or crab.

2008 College White

A Chardonnay/Vidal blend offering aromas of peach and orange blossoms. This wine is nicely balanced, with mild acidity and offers flavours of tropical fruit on the palate.

Try this wine with grilled shrimp with pineapple salsa, mango salad or enjoy on its own on a sunny patio.

2008 Pinot Noir

This Pinot provides aromas of black cherry and earth, followed by flavours of cherry and vanilla bean. Light-medium bodied, with smooth tannins and a lingering finish.

Try this wine with cedar plank salmon, served with grilled portobello mushrooms.

2006 Merlot

With aromas of plum and black cherry, this Merlot offers firm yet ripe tannins and flavours of blackberry and currants. Nice finish.

Try this wine with a grilled pizza.

2007 Cabernet Franc
This rich Cabernet Franc has an expressive nose of blackberry jam and creme de cassis. It is medium-full bodied, with firm yet supple tannins. Flavours of black fruit, baking spice and black licorice coat the palate, with a pleasant balance between fruit, tannin and acidity. Lovely finish.

Try this wine with homemade hamburgers or grilled steak.

We hope that you enjoy the summer season with some fantastic food and wine!

Cheers everyone.