Now that summer seems to have finally arrived (watch as the temperatures drop now I've said that!) it's time for some summer drinks!!
In the hotter months I tend to choose lighter reds, roses and whites to cope with the heat and the summer foods.
Yesterday in the shop, my boss asked us to try a chilled red wine from central France (it' not widely available so I won't advertise it).
Yes! A chilled red! (In the fridge, not on it, Rob!!!)
The wine was made from the Gamay grape which is the same grape as Beaujolais and is perfect for summer drinking. If you're not keen on rose wine, these should please! Don't be put off by "Beaujolais" either, the Beaujolais Villages wines are lovely, light and fruity and don't really have anything to do with Beaujolais Nouveau. Good ones are Julienas, Moulin a Vent and Fleurie.
Also look out for Pinot Noir and Loire reds which can be chillled lightly for about half an hour.
There are a lot of rose wines about at the moment and I would try those from Southern France and the Languedoc in particular. There were lots of Rose wines available in PP, especially in Caprabo, so bung them in the basket! And don't forget the forum favourite - Torres de Casta which is fab with BBQs and tapas.
If you fancy a change from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc you could always try Viognier. It's a lovely peachy/apricot wine that goes well with lighter summer salads. Good examples are from the Northern Rhone in France or California.
I found these recipes for cocktails on "ivillage" and they are perfect for summer parties and BBQs:
Sangria - makes about 18 glasses
2 bottles of chilled inexpensive red wine
Half a tumbler of brandy or fruit-based liqueur (cointreau would be great)
1 bottle of soda water or sparkling mineral water
Sliced fruit.
Combine all ingredients and enjoy!
Sinking Sun - makes 1 glass
1 can chilled sweet or dry cider
Half a tumbler of whisky:b
Strip of lemon peel
Crushed ice
Mix and enjoy!
Rose cup - makes about 12 glasses
2 bottles of Rose wine
Half a tumbler of Southern Comfort
450ml Tonic water
Mandarins, clementines or tangerines peeled and segmented
Mix together and enjoy.
If you would like the drink sweeter, either add clear honey or canned mandarins, etc with syrup.
If anyone has any other recipes for summer cocktails or has a variation on the above, let me know!!
I hope you all have a fantastic summer, wherever you are!!
Jane