The Elevated Picnic Edit: Four Wines to Take You Through Late Summer
Wines for Late Summer: There’s just something about summer that can lift even the humblest of meals when enjoyed outdoors. A picnic blanket, a few choice comestibles and, ideally, a drink worth uncorking can instantly elevate an afternoon into something a little more memorable.
With summer days still very much on the horizon, we’ve selected four wines that represent a subtly more sophisticated approach to summery beverages.
Available across supermarkets and independent shops, they’re genial enough to suit picnics and informal gatherings, yet have enough interest to stand apart from the usual suspects.
More happily still, these bottles won’t feel out of sync as the mercury drops from August to September, proving useful for late-summer repasts, backyard bashes and chill outdoor evenings.
Graham Beck Pinot Noir Rosé 2019
For those who appreciate a dash of fizz in their summer tipple, Graham Beck Pinot Noir Ros 2019 is a prime candidate for your picnic hamper.
Sparkling and graceful, this rosé sparkle adds a touch of ceremony without feeling stuffy. Its vibrant character lends itself wonderfully to food, whether you’re serving traditional picnic fare, sharing platters or something a touch more robust.
It’s the sort of bottle that feels apt whether you’re toasting a summer birthday over lunch or settling in for a spontaneous evening al fresco.
from Majestic
Zuccardi Chardonnay 2024
Chardonnay might sometimes be perceived as opulent or weighty, but the Zuccardi Chardonnay 2024 provides a refreshing New World interpretation of the grape.
An adaptable choice for warm weather, it pairs smoothly with a diverse range of picnic foods. Think salads, grilled vegetables, cheeses, light pasta dishes and summery sharing plates.
If you’re a Chardonnay drinker seeking something polished but uncomplicatedly refreshing, keep this bottle in the fridge.
from Noble Rot
Errazuriz Estate Reserva Pinot Noir 2025
While red wine and summertime might not always sound like natural partners, chilled, lighter reds can be utterly delightful.
The Errazuriz Estate Reserva Pinot Noir 2025 is a soft, fruit-driven example that works perfectly for relaxed outdoor imbibing. Priced at around £10, it’s an excellent, more interesting option than the standard barbecue accompaniment.
Pop it in the fridge for a few minutes prior to serving and team it with grilled vegetables, cheeses, picnic pies or barbecue favourites.
from Tesco
Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages 2024
For a classic approach, the Louis Jadot Mcon-Villages 2024 delivers a clean and refined example of white Burgundy.
It’s refreshing without being overly complex, making it ideal for extended lunches and languid summer afternoons. Its clear, versatile style complements seafood, salads, cheese and lighter summer dishes seamlessly.
This wine gracefully transition into early autumn, making it one of those versatile bottles you’ll be glad to have on hand for spontaneous events.
from Tesco
A Better Bottle for the Picnic Basket
The most successful summer wines don’t need to be complex; they just need to be refreshing, adaptable, and pleasing enough to add a little extra sparkle to a simple meal.
From a glass of perfectly chilled Pinot Noir and a crisp Chardonnay to effervescent rosé and classic white Burgundy, this list of elevated picnic essentials offers four simple routes to upgrading your next outdoor adventure and enjoying summertime refreshment long into September.
Please drink responsibly.
