In the heart of summer, there are few things we love more than a crisp, refreshing glass of white wine. Two current favorites include our award-winning 2018 Albariño and the newest wine in our collection, 2018 Scottsdale Vineyard Chardonnay. There is something about these fruit-driven wines that captures the essence of summer and entreats us to sit back and soak in the season.
In California, and Lodi in particular, we are fortunate to have a bountiful summer, filled not just with ripening grapes and wild vines, but with farm fresh produce grown all around us. Each summer as we watch our own grapes mature, we see our neighbors cultivating heirloom tomatoes, juicy strawberries, fleshy avocados and so much more.
Things really kick into gear when August heats up, and we’ve found no better time to enjoy our chilled whites with scrumptious pairings that take full advantage of our region’s seasonal fare. Our suggestions are simple, yet infused with flavorful ingredients that you can find in your own garden or at the local farmer’s market.
This Simple Shrimp Ceviche is a superb highlight to our zesty Albariño. The Albariño’s slight acidity, lemon-lime notes and light minerality make it a dream for seafood lovers. Excellent as an appetizer or served tapas style, this ceviche hits all the right notes and goes great alongside just-made guacamole and blistered shishitos.
Though it may be hot out, our grill is always fired up this time of year. This Greek-inspired Grilled Chicken with Tomato, Feta and Oregano is cooked to perfection over flame after a few hours in a lemon-based marinade. Topped with fresh feta and ultra-ripe tomatoes, it is both light and flavorful, much like our Scottsdale Chardonnay!
Even if your backyard is not brimming with prime produce, these recipes are created with easy to find ingredients. We hope by now you know where to get the wine. We encourage you to take advantage of the beach blanket, lawn chair or wherever you’re happiest sipping spot may be – and stock up on your summer favorites before they’re gone!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD – Simple Shrimp Ceviche
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD – Grilled Chicken with Tomato, Feta & Oregano
