Top Wine Picks! For BBQ Season

Regardless of which part of Canada you live in, the thought that summer is just around the corner is exhilarating. Smelling the first neighbour's BBQ of the season always brings comfort, we associate these aromas with longer days and dinner on the patio. Impromptu social gatherings are likely to increase over the next few months, so here are some great wine picks to stock up on in preparation for sunny times ahead. Enjoy!

1.  Little Farm Winery 2014 Blind Creek Vineyard Rosé ($25)

The very first day of warm weather gets me thirsty for a good rosé. It has the same effect on my spirit as putting away that winter coat for good. From the Similkameen region in British Columbia, Little Farm produces a dry and thirst quenching rosé that keeps you company while you’re out there cooking. Provence was inevitably the inspiration here – the wine is very delicate and extremely refreshing.

2.  JoieFarm 2015 Pinot Blanc ($23)

Vegetarian or not, vegetables are especially delicious when cooked on the grill. Asparagus is a classic but zucchini, radicchio, tomatoes and fennel are also favourites. Make sure to go with a wine that is high in acidity so that it stands up to your veggies. Pinot Blanc is a great partner and the timing is perfect, the 2015 JoieFarm edition has just arrived at My Wine Canada.

3.   Orofino Vineyards 2012 Red Bridge Red ($25)

Nothing replaces the satisfaction of biting into the first char-grilled burger of the season. Great ingredients are key to make every bite spectacular. To pair with the masterpiece, go with a full-bodied red. It’s especially appropriate at this time of the year when the temperatures can drop quickly at night. Orofino Vineyards' 2012 Red Bridge is a perennial favourite. Very few people in the Okanagan have mastered Merlot like they have. A perfect match.

4.  Flat Rock Cellars 2013 Pinot Noir ($20)

BBQs often become the communal roasting hub seeing everything from seafood to red meats to vegetables. You'll find many different foods coming off the grill and it can be tricky to choose the right wine. Lighter reds are always a safe bet to bridge the flavours between red meat and fish. Lush with notes of cherries and strawberries, Flat Rock Cellars' 2013 Pinot Noir will work like a charm. Chill slightly for better enjoyment.

Cheers to sunshine and warmer weather.

You can buy Michelle's BBQ wine picks by clicking on each bottle below!

Michelle Bouffard is a wine educator and journalist who splits her time between Montréal & Vancouver. She is the president of the BC Chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers. She Tweets @michellebwine and Instagrams @michellebouffard.