Wines for Summer
Wines For Summer
Summer Wines
When the sun is shining and the days are long, there’s nothing like a refreshing glass of wine to complement the season. Here’s a look at some popular summer choices.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blancs are crisp, clean, and incredibly refreshing. They often feature notes of lemon, lime, grapefruit, green apple, and grassy or herbal elements.
Our 2023 AJA Eds’ Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc highlights tropical fruits, lemon zest, and green apple—perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Chardonnay
Chardonnays are often known to be buttery and creamy with notes of vanilla, oak, and toasted nuts. However, many consumers are starting to prefer the more linear expression with bright fruit, racing acidity, and lovely flavors of apple, pear, and citrus.
With prominent notes of lemon peel, chamomile, and honeydew, AJA’s Central Coast Chardonnay is a refreshing choice. Hints of persimmon and beeswax make this a perfect wine for summer.
Rosé
A quintessential summer wine, rosé combines refreshing crispness with red fruit flavors like strawberry, cherry, or watermelon. It’s approachable, fun, and incredibly food-friendly.
Our AJA Rosé is dry and elegant, offering notes of lychee, watermelon, citrus, and red berries with a refreshing finish. This wine is an excellent companion for poolside lounging, enjoying a charcuterie board, or pairing with a savory sausage.
Sparkling Wines
Light bubbles and lively acidity make sparkling wines a festive favorite. Depending on the varietals used, flavors can range from citrus to orchard fruit.
Our AJA Extra Brut Sparkling Wine is celebratory and flavorful. It combines crisp citrus fruit notes, bright green apple, and delicate effervescence for the perfect warm-weather toast.
Browse our Current Releases page to explore our seasonal favorites.
Food Pairings for Summer Wines
Whether planning a backyard barbecue, a beach picnic, or a quiet evening on the patio, the perfect wine and food pairing can enhance your flavors and elevate your dining experience.
Here are a few go-to summer pairings:
- Sauvignon Blanc. Pairs beautifully with goat cheese salads, grilled vegetables, and seafood with a squeeze of lemon
- Chardonnay. Complements light pasta dishes and caprese salads, and fresh fruit like peaches and green apples
- Rosé. Makes a perfect choice with charcuterie, grilled chicken, and flavorful summer fare like tacos or barbecue
- Sparkling Wine. Goes great with fried foods, sushi, or even buttered popcorn for a movie night under the stars
Tips for Choosing the Right Wine
Need help selecting the right wine for your summer occasion? Here are a few helpful tips:
- Look for high acidity. Wines with crisp acidity are more refreshing in hot weather.
- Go for lower alcohol. A lighter body helps keep things easy-drinking during the day.
- Consider your menu. Match your wine’s intensity and flavors with the dishes you’re serving.
- Try something new. Summer is perfect for exploring varieties like Pinot Gris, rosé, or lesser-known sparkling options.
At AJA Vineyards, we’re proud to produce handcrafted wines that reflect the unique character of the Malibu Coast. Wine should be as enjoyable as the company you share it with, and our wines are made with that philosophy in mind. Each bottle begins with estate-grown fruit, allowing us to capture their vibrancy and natural flavor. Because we operate on a small-batch scale, we can give each vintage the attention it deserves, ensuring quality and consistency across every release.
Why Choose AJA's Wines?
Visit our tasting room, or use our online tool to find AJA near you. You can also join our Wine Club to receive exclusive access to limited wines and special events.
