After the winter that would not quit, summer did finally arrive and it was a bit of a white summer and plenty of dinner reds to boot!

I love the whites on a hot summer day and we have had our share – of whites and hot summer days!

The good news… none ended up in the One and Done category.

Smoking Loon Chardonnay – $14.95, California

One of my favorites for the summer for sure and at 15 bucks it might just become my go to home white for whenever the occasions calls for it!

What the Experts say:  good balance, creamy texture and forward flavors, this is a crowd-pleaser.  Aromas of citrus blossom, peach, pear and buttered popcorn. The palate is dry, with medium-full body and flavors of citrus and yellow apple, with spicy and buttery accents. Serve with vegetarian pizza, creamy pasta or roast chicken.

What do I think:  Bang for the buck!  Impressive golden coloring, full bodied and flavorful and definitely made an impression and a crowd pleaser with a nice finish.
 

La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay – $29.95, California 2016

Love their Pinot Noir – so had to try the Chard!

What the Experts say: Cooling ocean breezes and morning fogs have helped the Sonoma Coast become one of the world’s premier appellations for Chardonnay. This one is toasty and generous with juicy apple and pear, a hint of citrus and a mineral undertone. Perfect for grilled pork chops or roast chicken.

What do I think:  Tried it, like it, went back for more!  A little on the pricier side than I like to pay for whites but there is a distinct smoothness and feel to a wine that you pay a few bucks more for.

Matahiwi Estate Sauvignon Blanc – $17.00, New Zealand 2018

Changing continents on you…a “bar-goon” from down under…

What the Experts say: Towering over the competition, this stand-out Sauvignon Blanc is sophisticated and subtle with sweet fruits and a touch of basil. Lovely and lifted with a fresh, rounded texture.

What do I think:  pleasing aromas, light and bright with crisp citrusy taste.

Toro Bravo Tempranillo Merlot 2018 – $7.95, Valencia Spain

No BULL at under 8 bucks and pretty damn good!  So good a golf buddy came out to the golf course one day asking me if I had heard about it.  Excited to be going to by some after the round.  I told him that this stuff flies off the shelf – so get it when you can.

What the Experts say:  blend of merlot and Tempranillo is an exceptional value. Ruby red in colour, look for alluring aromas and flavours of plum, cherry, chocolate, earth and a hint of black pepper. Medium bodied and smooth, with a long finish, this is ideal for beef tacos or grilled pork chops beside roasted potatoes.

What do I think: Bang for the buck for sure!  Medium body, smooth and tasty – get some when you can!

Menage a Trois Silk Red Blend – $17.95, California 2017

What the Experts say: A blend of Pinot Noir, Malbec and Petite Sirah, soft and elegant on the palate, delivering oodles of rich berry, ripe cherry and raspberry flavours, with floral notes and a hint of sweet spicy oak.

What do I think:  It’s got everything you need to make you feel good, thinking dirty, some silk and some red…when you throw so many varieties of wines into one pot you are going to get a smorgasbord of tastes and with this one they did a wonderful job.   Great wine and great price you won’t go wrong with this one. Let your imagination run wild.