As summer approaches, the grills start to fire up and everyone is thinking about different ways to spend as much time as possible outdoors. Between barbecues and patio fiestas, picnics and block parties, outside celebrations abound, as do the delicious dishes that go with them—barbecued chicken, caprese salad, corn on the cob, pulled-pork tacos. But there’s an often overlooked question: what to drink?
This year, try skipping the lemonade and thinking outside the mojitos. We asked Fabricio Espinosa from Vid A Vid Wine Cellars in Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta for a few ideas of white wines to keep all of your summer entertaining cool. Take a look at his recommendations and try a few out either at your own backyard party or next time you’re visiting your favorite resort hotel at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta.
- Casa Grande Chardonnay 2014
Fabricio said this dry, oaky Chardonnay, which hails from Mexico, pairs excellently with seafood and light cheeses. He suggests serving it with pre-dinner cheese plate or grilled veggies, fresh from the barbecue.
- Fraternidad Nuva 2013
This Mexican blend of Chardonnay, Muscato, and Sauvignon Blanc has a more complex flavor than typical Chardonnay, says Fabricio. Grown in Valle de Guadalupe, it boasts a light, buttery taste and is a good accompaniment to shellfish and roasted pork dishes like tacos.
- L.A. Cetto Chardonnay 2013
This unoaked, dry Chardonnay is grown in Baja California, where Mexican produces most of its Chardonnay grapes. It has a tropical fruit palate; Fabricio suggests pairing it with a chicken dish.
- Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2012
This Napa Valley white brings fresh, crisp taste to the table, along with notes of citrus. Fabricio says that it’s best enjoyed with a white fish in a light sauce, vegetables or salads with a creamy dressing, or grilled portabello mushrooms.
- Baigorri Blanco Fermentado en Barrica 2012
Fabricio has a soft spot for this Spanish white, which he describes as having a creamy, buttery flavor. He recommends decorking this beauty and serving alongside a charcuterie plate or olives—really any salty snack.
