Uncork the summer: Expert wine picks for dining in the great outdoors
There’s an irresistible pull to dine outdoors in the summer; to squeeze every drop of enjoyment from the golden evening light; to savour the scent of sweet peas carried on the gentle breeze. Al fresco dining becomes a cherished ritual – and whether it’s hearty barbecue fare or fresh seafood, a well-chosen wine can elevate the entire experience.
It’s just as well, then, that we partner with de Burgh Wine Merchants, a business that honours a unique portfolio of wines and the people who make them. The de Burgh team are passionate about finding exciting and delectable wines – so who better to ask for some recommendations?
1. La Portera ‘Tardano' Macabeo 2024
A fresh, sophisticated Spanish white. Was £13.99, now £11.89
“Grown in sun-drenched Spanish vineyards, this fab Macabeo develops a rich ripeness that translates into layers of golden apple, ripe pear, and citrus zest on the palate. The wine’s natural freshness is preserved, offering a crisp, saline backbone that balances its generous fruit profile. What sets it apart, however, is its texture, which adds sophistication to every sip. If you do decide to fire up the BBQ and go all outdoorsy dining, a chilled glass of this will enhance the experience.”
Tarquin de Burgh, Managing Director
A modern, elegant rosé. Was £18.99, now £16.14
“This delightfully fresh and aromatic rosé from Bodegas Arzuaga hails from the high-altitude Ribera del Duero in Spain. It’s complex and textured, with citrus and tropical fruit notes behind the textbook summer red fruit flavours. It’s just hugely enjoyable, which for me, is what rosé wine is all about - and will easily wash a sausage roll down.”
Will Nicolson, Director
3. Domaine Papagiannakos 'Kalogeri' Malaguzia 2023
A deliciously dry white. Was £19.75, now £17.77
“My pick is Domaine Papagiannakos 'Kalogeri' Malaguzia 2023 - a delicious, 12.5% white wine from Greece made from native Greek Malagouzia grapes. It’s bone dry and gorgeously mouth-coating, tasting of crisp pear and honeydew melon. If you like Sauvignon Blanc and want to try something different, this is a good choice. I paired it with Greek salad and chicken souvlaki skewers – it has a very pretty olive-tree bottle too.”
Fiona Holt, Accounts
4. Fleurie Domaine de la Madone 2023
The perfect picnic pick-me-up. Was £18.99, now £14.99
“This is a grown-up wine. Lots of blackberry and crunchy fruit concentration, with hints of forest floor and more savoury notes, finishing with a nice tannic structure and fresh acidity. Fleurie is one of the 10 Beaujolais Crus, at a higher altitude than the others, which results in that fresh, light style. You could happily drink this on its own or with food. A perfect picnic companion!”
Nina Cunynghame-Lang, PA & Sales Support
5. Port of Leith Distillery Manzanilla
An appealing aperitif. Now £20.50
“This Port of Leith Manzanilla is typically bone-dry with fresh lemon, peach, apple and nutty aromas all wound round a saline core. The wine is made and aged in the coastal town of Sanlucar de Barrameda, where it picks up the distinctive tang that sets it apart from other Fino-style Sherries. Amazing as an aperitif or watching a cricket match, which is what I’ll be doing at the weekend! Pairing some posh crisps, olives, and smoked nuts with the saline deliciousness of a glass of Manzanilla would only enhance the experience!”
Christine Nicolson, Marketing
Ready to wet your whistle?
Whether you’re hosting a mammoth get-together, packing a family picnic, or simply chasing the last of the evening light at the foot of the garden, these handpicked bottles from de Burgh bring a little extra brightness to your summer dining.
Want to sample one (or several) of these superb vintages for yourself? Use the code LUXSCOT10 at checkout for 10% off your order*. We’ll drink to that.
*please note that a limited number of the fine wines and whiskies may be excluded from this special offer.