06/17/2026
FROM EL RAY, THE GRAPE ONE
As the days get longer and temperatures climb, my wine preferences naturally shift. While Cabernet Sauvignon, Barolos, and big red dominate my wine cellar,summer time calls for refreshing, vibrant, and food friendly wines. Rose’s are obviously great..but, what about some whites that are not Sauvignon blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay? Three of my go to whites are:
ALBARIÑO
Originally from Spain’s coastal region of Galicia, Albariño is tailor made for summer. Crisp and aromatic, it combines bright citrus flavors with notes of peach, green apple, white flowers, and a distinctive saline minerality. An intense wine without the heaviness
My pick
LaCana Albariño
CHENIN BLANC
Originally from France’s Loire Valley, it now, also thrives in South Africa and California. An extremely versatile wine that delivers bright acidity, refreshing citrus, ripe pear, honeydew melon, and subtle floral notes. It can be minerally driven to richer, textured styles. Chenin Blanc offers a nice balance that satisfies a Chardonnay drinker with enough fruit, and a Sauvignon Blanc drinker with freshness and energy
My picks
Dry Creek Chenin Blanc, California
Ken Forrester Old Vine Chenin Blanc, South Africa
VERMENTINO
During the last 4 years, I’ve made it my mission to introduce people to Vermentino. Although, Vermentino is grown in many places, Tuscany and Sardinia reign supreme. Vermentino is bright, aromatic, and incredibly refreshing. You can expect aromas and flavors of lemon zest, green apple, pear, peach, and fresh herbs with a subtle salty characteristic
My picks
Aia Vecchia, Tuscany
Surrau Limizzani, Sardinia
These wines offer a personality, complexity, and value. Maybe, this summer, you might want to consider exploring some wines that are not normally on your radar. Remember, some of the greatest wine experiences come from stepping beyond the familiar. This Saturday from 1-3 and every Saturday through the summer, we’ll have these, and others, open for tasting,
Ray
