The Best Wines for Spring Sipping

The best wines for spring have palates that are light and bursting with citrus and fresh fruit flavors. From perfect picnic pairings to delightful brunch options, we have your spring sipping covered.

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Spring is a season of renewal, rejuvenation, blooming flowers, and warm, sunny days. For wine lovers, that means it’s time to put those heavy wines of winter away and embrace the lighter flavors of spring. Our top picks for your spring sipping encompass a delightful range, from crisp whites bursting with citrus to light-bodied reds that can be served with or without a little extra chill. 

Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, a festive brunch, or an evening barbecue, we have the perfect bottle to elevate your springtime celebration. Here are our top picks for your spring sipping.

White Wines

Sauvignon Blanc

Known for its crisp acidity and vibrant flavors of citrus, melon, and grass, Sauvignon Blanc is a quintessential springtime wine. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and seafood dishes. You can find excellent Sauv Blancs from California, New Zealand, Australia, and France (where it’s called Sancerre).

Pinot Grigio

Refreshing and easy-drinking, Pinot Grigio is a versatile choice for spring sipping. With notes of green apple, pear, and floral undertones, this white wine is a great accompaniment to light pasta dishes, shellfish, and soft cheeses. Pinot Grigio is also a great pick to offer your friends who are newer to the world of wine.

Riesling

Riesling wines can be sweet or dry, and they have tons of mouthwatering acidity that makes them an excellent choice for this list of the best wines for spring. Well-crafted Rieslings offer notes of citrus (primarily lime), pineapple, pitted orchard fruit, and sometimes petrol. This wine’s zesty character makes it a fantastic pairing with spicy dishes, Asian cuisine, and fresh fruit desserts.

Rosé

You can’t stock up on a few of the best wines for spring without adding a few bottles of Rosé  wine to your cellar. A quintessential springtime wine, Rosé combines the fresh, buright minerality of white wine with the fruit-forwardness of red wine. Whether it’s a dry Provencal-style Rosé or a crisp Rosé from California, this pink-hued wine is a great choice for picnics, brunches, and outdoor gatherings. It also looks great on a spring tablescape.

Red Wines

Pinot Noir

Light-bodied and elegant, Pinot Noir is a red wine that can be enjoyed slightly chilled in the warm spring weather. With flavors of red berries, earthy notes, and silky tannins, it is ideal for pairing with roasted poultry, salmon, and mushroom dishes.

Grenache

Bursting with ripe red fruit flavors and a hint of spice, Grenache is a medium-bodied red wine that is perfect for springtime sipping. It pairs well with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, and charcuterie boards.

Gamay

Known for its bright acidity, soft tannins, and flavors of red cherries and violets, Gamay is a delightful red wine for spring. This versatile wine complements a wide range of dishes, from roasted vegetables to lighter meat fare.

Sparkling Wine

No celebration of spring is complete without a sparkling wine to add some bubbly fun to the season. Whether it’s a classic Champagne, a crisp Prosecco, or a fruity Cava, sparkling wine is perfect for toasting to the arrival of warmer days.

Occasions to Enjoy Spring Wine

  • Spring Picnics: Pack a basket with your favorite cheeses, fruits, and a chilled bottle of Rosé or Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful picnic in the park.
  • Brunches: Elevate your brunch spread with a bottle of sparkling wine or a fruity Rosé that pairs perfectly with dishes like eggs Benedict, smoked salmon, and fresh pastries.
  • BBQs: Barbecues are the perfect excuse to break out your Rose wines, Gamay. These bottles are great for sipping alongside grilled meats, veggies, and seasonal salads.

Tips

The best wines for spring are all about lighter flavors that work well with warm weather. When picking a wine for spring, keep these tips in mind:

  • Think light and crisp: Reds with lighter bodies like Pinot Noir or Gamay are great choices. For whites, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a dry Riesling are always crowd-pleasers. 
  • Consider the food: If charcuterie is involved in your spring wine adventure, a bold Rosé or a fruity red wine with light tannins like Beaujolais / Gamay will complement this spread well. For lighter salads and sandwiches, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be perfect.
  • Don’t forget your friends: If you’re unsure of what types of wine your friends like or if they’re into wine at all, offer a variety to cover all of your bases. A bottle of Rosé makes everyone happy, as does a light white and red wine. 

Closing Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to explore new varieties or revisit old favorites. From crisp whites to elegant reds, a refreshing Rosé, and sparkling wines, remember, the best wines for spring are the ones you love to sip!

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