Wines are fine anytime. Yet in summertime, they somehow seem more refreshing — we can savor a glass (or two) while kicking back outside with friends and loved ones.
Here’s a short but sweet (and dry and bubbly) list of some of Archer’s favorite wines to sip in the sun.
White All right, all right, all right
Chardonnay is versatile (like Archer). It can be big and bold, or light and refreshing. Crisp and bright, or round and creamy. For summer sips, Archer adores a balanced chardonnay, and Far Niente Winery’s chardonnay fills the cup. Its Coombsville vineyards produce subtle, tropical flavors and complex aromas. With a rich history of producing excellent wines, Far Niente celebrates their 40th vintage in 2021. When in Napa Valley, enjoy a beautiful tasting experience at their Oakville property.
More wonderful whites: Trinchero Family Estates + Clos du Val
Red Go ahead, make my day
Cabernet sauvignon is the undisputed king of Napa. It’s also a drinkable year-round wine (including summer sips). The Hess Collection sources its fruit from multiple mountain and valley vineyards that provide rich, complex wine. Their Allomi cabernet sauvignon is one of Archer’s favorites to enjoy with a steak at Charlie Palmer Steak. The 2018 vintage delivers distinct notes of vanilla and oak spice, along with layers of juicy black fruit and bittersweet chocolate. The Hess tasting room atop Mount Veeder also serves as an art exhibit.
More robust reds: Promontory + Quilt Wines
Bubbles Pop that cork
Frank Family Vineyards is known for their big cabernets and their connection to Hollywood, but a little-known secret is their production of some of the finest bubbles in Napa Valley. They handcraft four sparkling wines, all made in the traditional French champenoise method — ideal for summer sips. Visit the beautiful Frank Family tasting room, which is housed in the historic Larkmead Winery nestled between St. Helena and Calistoga.
More sparkling faves: Schramsberg Vineyards + Domaine Carneros
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