As the days grow longer and temperatures soar, some gravitate toward chilled white wine or refreshing rosé. However, many of the foods we eat during summer call for red wine, especially when we’re lighting the grill. Besides, sometimes we just want to drink a great glass of red wine, regardless of what’s on the menu.
Summer red wines satisfy a different series of desires than those we pour in cooler months. We’re seeking bold fruit flavors and soft tannins, not trying to warm ourselves up with richness. Whether it’s a cookout, pizza night, game night, or any warm weather get-together, Spain has you covered for delicious and affordable red wines that are perfect for summer drinking.
While Tempranillo is Spain’s star red grape, be on the lookout for varieties like Garnacha, Monastrell, Mencia and Bobal. Great Spanish red wines hail from Rioja and Ribera del Duero, of course, as well as regions less familiar to some U.S. drinkers, like Navarra, Utiel-Requena, Jumilla, Castilla-La Mancha, and Bierzo.
There’s exceptional value to be had, and lesser-known regions and grapes can offer an even better quality-for-price ratio. If you do go for better-known styles, look for wines labeled Crianza or Cosecha, which cost less and have softer tannins than those that are aged longer.
