WASHINGTON — Last week, I extolled the virtues of summertime thirst-quenching wines, namely, rosé and sauvignon blanc.
I casually mentioned that when the weather is D.C.-hot, wines with abundant acidity are a great choice for sipping while grilling on the back deck or patio.
Well, I received a few emails from listeners and readers who gently reminded me that summer isn’t just about white wines and rosés, and that there are more options than sauvignon blanc that belong on the table when cookout fare is on the menu.
The point is well taken. There are, indeed, a plethora of tasty, well-priced wines that could put the sizzle in any steak you throw on the grill. So if you’re firing up the grill and looking for some fun wines to share with family, friends and neighbors this weekend — or anytime this summer — here are a couple of really delicious and affordable red wines to serve:
Of course, if you’re thinking about smoking some ribs, you’re definitely going to want a big red that can complement the smoky goodness while cutting through the richness. My vote is cast with the 2014 Michael-David Seven Deadly Zins Zinfandel from Lodi, California. This is a full-throttled, sumptuous zinfandel from the epicenter of California. It has a remarkable bouquet, throwing off scents reminiscent of chocolate-covered blackberries, blueberries and cherries. In the mouth, flavors of ripe black cherries, dark plums and blueberry liqueur pop on the front of the tongue, while a touch of black pepper detonates on the powerful finish. Also great with tri-tip. $13
Bordeaux wines do not always have to be expensive to be enjoyable. The 2011 Garagista Bordeaux Superieur is case-in-point. Produced in conjunction with world-famous consulting winemaker, Michele Rolland, this delicious Bordeaux is from Benoit Trocard, owner of Clos Dubreuil. The nose is chocked full of pleasant scents of blackberry and earthy spices, followed by flavors of black plum, cassis and espresso in the mouth. It is just the right everyday wine to serve with grilled flank steak. $20
I love pairing Tempranillo with summer grilled fare. The 2010 La Rioja Alta Vina Alberdi Reserva from Rioja, Spain is a 100-percent estate-bottled Tempranillo that is beautifully aged and ready to drink. This is a full-bodied wine with juicy black cherry fruit, plums, and licorice flavors that have had a chance to mellow and meld with the refreshing acidity. The touch of vanilla on the bright finish is just enough to add depth. $23
Of course, if you’re going to throw anything on the “barbie,” it’s only appropriate to have something from Down Under on hand … or maybe two hands, like the 2016 Two Hands Gnarly Dudes Shiraz from the Barossa Valley in Australia, where Shiraz is revered for its robust, juicy qualities. This is a beautiful, forward-styled Shiraz with loads of jammy black plum, mocha and chocolate flavors, supported by sweet-yet-soft tannins. Notes of crushed stone and black pepper make a memorable finish. A sure winner with lamb chops. $28
