How to Choose a California White Wine for Any Summer Occasion

Chardonnay is the most widely-grown grape and top-selling varietal wine in the U.S., but Sauvignon Blanc is stepping into the spotlight with its crisp, refreshing vibes. And that’s just the beginning!

Beyond the top three most-planted grape varieties, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris, California boasts a lineup of over 30 different white grape varieties. Ever tried Chenin Blanc? How about Albariño or Vermentino? Each grape brings its own unique twist to the glass, offering everything from crisp and citrusy to rich and velvety flavors.

So, how do you pick the perfect California white wine for your next summer get-together? Here are a few tips:

A Perfect Picnic

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and share an alfresco meal and a bottle of a chilled California white wine with friends.

Assemble a grazing board of artisan cheeses, nuts and sliced peaches or nectarines, then open a fresh, zesty Sauvignon Blanc. Chenin Blanc, with its summery stone fruit profile, is another delicious choice with picnic fare, from grilled chicken salads to caprese sandwiches.

Summer Soiree

Summer parties on the patio or poolside call for a range of white wine options to suit all kinds of tastes. Include wines with a richer, rounder profile, like California Viognier or Grenache Blanc, along with crisp selections like mouthwatering Albariño and peachy Pinot Grigio. Summer soirees are also ideal occasions for mixing batches of lighter-style cocktails made with wine instead of spirits.

Casual Beach Hangout

Light and bright is the way to go for a casual day at the beach. Dry California Riesling, with its floral and aromatic profile, is typically lower in alcohol and high in acidity — ideal for a relaxed hangout in the sun and surf. Vermentino is another good choice thanks to its racy, mineral-driven profile. Increasingly, California wineries are adopting lightweight, climate-friendly packaging like cans and aluminum bottles, which are ideal for toting along to the beach.

Music or Movies in the Park 

Summer evenings in the park were made for medium- and full-bodied California whites, such as Fiano — a Southern Italian grape with a floral, honeyed vibe — and honeysuckle-kissed Rousanne. Or, if you’re feeling creative, take inspiration from the featured genre of music or movie, bringing along a zingy Picpoul for a lighthearted comedy film or a citrusy Verdejo for a flamenco guitar performance.

Al Fresco Brunch 

California bubbles can perfectly enhance brunch gatherings on the backyard deck or a restaurant patio. Vivacious and versatile, sparkling wines come in a wide variety of styles, from bone dry (often labeled asbrut zero or brut nature) to dry (brut) to off-dry (extra dry) to slightly sweet (demi-sec) to sweet (sec). Lightly sweet Muscat sparklers are on-point with French toast or pancakes with blueberry sauce. Choose a dry Chardonnay-based bubbly (sometimes labeled as Blanc de Blancs) for eggs and other savory dishes.