Summer wine selections focus on light body and lower alcohol

Selecting wines for summer heat focuses on the weight and alcohol content of the beverage rather than just color. While rosés and whites are traditional choices, light-to-medium-bodied red wines with alcohol content of 13.5 percent or below can be suitable, particularly when served slightly chilled.

Recommended options for the season include a variety of white wines priced under $40. Notable selections include Garzón Reserva Albariño from Uruguay, which offers peach and citrus notes; Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Eden Valley Viognier from Australia; Valle Reale Trebbiano d’Abruzzo from Italy; and Catena Alta Chardonnay from Argentina. Ampeleia Toscana Unlitro Bianco is also noted as a high-value white blend.