4 Best Napa Valley Wines to Enjoy this Summer

For years, wines from France were considered to be the crème de la crème. However, that all changed in 1976 when a blind taste test led to red and white wines from California besting their French counterparts. The revelation rocked the wine world, and Napa Valley rose to prominence as a serious wine destination. 

Over 40 years later, the region is still considered to be one of the world’s premier places for wine, and some of the top wineries and vineyards can be found here. With summer right around the corner, it’s time to find the right wine to pair with your food. Whether you’re looking for a crisp white wine to go with your picnic lunch or a sparkling rosé to toast a bridal or baby shower, here are the top Northern California wines to help you usher in the warmer months.

No summertime celebration would be complete without a go-to white wine, and this is one you’ll want to keep stocked for any casual events. With bright fruit and citrus notes and hints of lime zest and pineapple, it’s a lovely wine that pairs well with seafood, grilled vegetables, and salads. In other words, it’s a great choice to accompany your grilling excursions or pack in your picnic basket. And, since it’s priced at around $30, it won’t break the bank in the process.

It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy, which means sometimes you need to splurge a bit. If you’re looking for a more elevated bottle for a special occasion, consider this Chardonnay from the beloved Grgich Hills Estate that has notes of citrus blossom, roasted almonds, and honey. Crisp, rich, and only getting better with time, the wine pairs well with rich dishes such as seafood risotto or pork shoulder. It’s priced at $95 per bottle. 

If you prefer a pink drink this summer, look no further than this rosy revelation. This rosé has notes of rose petal, cherry, and strawberry. It’s pleasingly crisp and light on the finish and will no doubt leave you wanting a second glass. Since it’s priced at around $30 per bottle, you’ll want to stock up to make sure you have enough for all your fabulous summertime events. It’s the ideal choice for a poolside fiesta, bridal shower, or girls’ weekend trip. For more ways to experience the region, try some underrated wine tastings in Napa.

Creator Jean-Charles Boisset named this rosé after the year he was born--also the year that mankind first landed on the moon Thus, Boisset has stated that the wine’s flavor is meant to evoke creative and artistic expression, intellectual revolution, and refinement, entwining both masculine and feminine aspects.

Don’t be fooled by this rosé’s dainty appearance--it’s packed with bubbles and flavor. Crispy and vibrant, this drink has hints of pinot noir and is the perfect thirst quencher. Better yet? A 750 mL bottle will only set you back $28. Want to experience this drink in true luxury style? Book a trip to JCB’s Yountville tasting salon--a destination that unites wine tasting with high-end retail and fashion. Afterward, consider checking out dining in Yountville for a complete wine country experience.

While you can find many of these wines at your local grocery store or spirits outlet, nothing beats being able to sample them in person. If you’re thinking of moving to the Napa Valley area, explore a taste of Napa Valley for insight on Napa’s unique lifestyle. If you’re thinking of moving to Napa Valley to have regular access to the world-renowned wine region, I can help you find the perfect place to call home. As a licensed Napa Valley real estate agent, I’m happy to work with you to find a Napa Valley property that matches your style and needs. Contact me today to learn more.