Summer's wine essentials

• Published date: 24 June 2022
• Publication title: Irish Times: Web Edition Articles (Dublin, Ireland)

I probably shouldn't admit this, but just thinking of summer makes me thirsty. Picnics, barbecues, snacks on the patio, garden parties, outdoor sports and music events, lazing by the pool (if I'm lucky), impromptu guests turning up in shorts and T-shirts...all these occasions are enhanced by a refreshing glass of wine. And let's not forget the birthdays, weddings, christenings, wedding anniversaries and graduations

But what wine to serve? Here's a quick guide to ensure you are always serving the right wine for the occasion.

All around the world, rosé wine has suddenly become fashionable, and none more so than the pale, dry rosés of Provence in southern France. Not too strong in flavour but refreshing and beautifully balanced, these wines are perfect for summer occasions as they are easy to drink both on their own and with food. And, talking of food, doesn't that delicate pale colour look the part with classic summer dishes such as prawn salad and poached salmon? Serve well chilled because the glasses will warm quickly in the summer sun.

The best of these rosés are from the Côtes de Provence appellation such as Lidl's Générique rosé for only €9.49 with a rating of 85. But wines of similar style and often better value can be found in Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, which Lidl's wide range also offer with their Les Cinq Rameaux with a rating of 85 also found in for only €9.49. Both are new Rosés joining Lidl's spectacular range this summer.

As for whites, summer is the ideal time for lighter styles of white. Sauvignon Blanc is a perennial favourite: those from France's Loire Valley, Sauvignon's original home, and South Africa are ever popular. The latter is also well known for its dry Chenin Blanc, not as highly aromatic as Sauvignon but always crisp, light and refreshing – as ever, look out for those with Fairtrade status. Lidl's Premium Fairtrade Chenin Blanc from the Winemakers Selection is an exquisite example of this, and at only €7.99 with a high rating of 86 this is one of my top picks.

My personal favourite summer grape is Riesling because I like the combination of depth of flavour, fruitiness, mouthwatering freshness and (very often) low alcohol – those from the Mosel often stand out as ideal summer whites such as Mosel Riesling from Lidl's range at €7.99 with a rating of 87. Most of these wines now come with screwcaps rather than corks – these have no adverse effect on quality and are so much more practical if you're taking wine on a picnic or to a...