10 Picnic Wines Under $20
By Maureen C. Petrosky
Since picnic fare is often light and usually chilled at room temp, it's best to steer clear of big tannic wines and stick with light, refreshing sips. Acidic whites help beat the heat when your picnic is at the beach; however, lighter reds like Pinot Noir have a place on the blanket too.
No matter if your cooler includes simple sandwiches, cheese and crackers, or leftover cold chicken and potato salad, the one must-have when picnicking in the sun is extra ice to be sure your food and drink stay cool. So invite some guests, grab your sunglasses and grub and pick up one of these bottles on the way.
1. Girard Winery Sauvignon Blanc, 2007, $17
Here we have a Napa Valley homerun bursting with lemons and grapefruit. This crisp light wine is ideal when lounging on a hot summer's day.
2. Mount Nelson Sauvignon Blanc, 2007, $15
Following suit to the S.B. above, yet kicking up the acidity and grass stains, this white is bright. It works wonders when served cool at any picnic. This is a stellar Sauvignon Blanc layered with flavor from Marlborough.
3. Falesco Vitiano Rosé, 2006, $8
Pretty in pink, this rose is coming up roses. It's got great body and oozes strawberry aromas and flavors bunched with floral notes that bloom when poured at a picnic.
4. Bon- Bon Rosé, 2006, $12
This luscious 100-percent Shiraz rosé is super cute with its flower-child label and friendly screw cap. Inside you'll find a wine that's just as inviting with strawberries and cream, a perfect accompaniment to a bowlful of fresh berries and a blanket.
5. Joseph Faiveley, Bourgogne, 2006, $18
Pinot Noir is one of the only reds light enough to be served at a picnic. Chill this bottle a bit before packing your basket of goodies. This red is a hit alongside the picnic fave of leftover cold chicken.
6. Trefethen Estate Dry Riesling, 2007, $17
Whereas Napa is better known as the King of Cabernet, Janet Trefethen & Company have added a notch to Napa with this white. Although many Rieslings bear a kiss of sweetness, this one is dry, just like it says on the label. It's elegant and lively and perfect for sipping alongside a picnic sunset.
7. Segura Viudas Aria, Brut NV, $11
A variety of picnic fare is much like tapas, and from Barcelona to Seville, Spain knows Cava is food-friendly and fun. For casual dining outdoors, a cold, crisp glass of this bubbly is refreshing and festive.
8. King Estate Pinot Gris, 2007, $15
Skip the predictable Pinot Grigio and pick up this lovely Pinot Gris instead. Though they are the same grape, the results can be dramatically different. This white is feminine, full of peaches and ribboned with pink grapefruit: perfect for a romantic picnic.
9. Coppola Rosso, 2007, $10
Since picnics are not restricted to summer months, I thought it important to include a few sips suitable for sweater weather. This red is pleasantly sippable alongside an array of artisanal cheeses. Grab a fresh baguette and your blanket and enjoy watching the leaves blow in the autumn wind.
10. Blackstone Merlot, 2007, $12
If you're seeking a juicy, smooth California Merlot bursting with ripe fruit, this is it. Pair with a simple country pâté alongside croutons and picnic under the stars.
*Prices listed are based on the standard 750 ml bottle, unless otherwise noted and may vary depending on location and proprietor.
Maureen C. Petrosky is the author of The Wine Club: A Month-By-Month Guide to Learning About Wine With Friends.
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