Sipping Summer Joy: My Top 3 Wines for an Unforgettable Picnic

As the sun finally returns to Munich, I managed to schedule my long-awaited summer wine picnic. Thank you to everyone who joined me — there’s nothing quite like sipping a chilled glass of wine, soaking in the evening sun, and sharing good company.

Now, I’m excited to share my top wine picks that truly capture the spirit of summer. So, grab your picnic blanket, order these bottles, and enjoy some refreshing summer moments!

Txakoli: The Crisp Essence of Summer

First on my list is Txakoli, a delightful white wine from Spain’s Basque Country. Its vibrant acidity and gentle spritz make it the perfect choice for a hot, sunny day — light, zesty, and kissed by the salty Atlantic breeze.

We paired it with creamy stracciatella on toasted bread, topped with anchovies. In this combination, the wine’s brightness cut beautifully through the creaminess of the cheese and paired perfectly with the anchovies’ saltiness.

You can find Txomin Etxaniz from the Getariako Txakolina region in Spain at Decántalo for delivery, or pick up a bottle in Munich at Vinus wine shop.

Vinho Verde: A Splash of Portuguese Charm from Minho region

Next is Vinho Verde, a wine that embodies summer with its lively flavours and refreshing profile. It’s like a burst of Portuguese sunshine captured in a glass.

This bright duet of Alvarinho and Loureiro grape varieties is full of floral notes and vibrant, yet gentle, acidity. It sang alongside the same stracciatella and anchovy toasts, lifting the savoury depth of the topping with a burst of freshness. Vinho Verde also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, light pasta dishes, or a classic Caprese salad.

Look for Soalheiro Allo and other wines from Soalheiro at The Grapes wine bar in Munich, or order them online from Decántalo. And remember — authentic Vinho Verde always comes from Portugal’s Minho wine region.

Iconic Summer Wine: Rosé

No summer picnic is complete without a bottle of iconic French Rosé. This style has become a staple for summer events — and it’s easy to see why. With its pretty pink hue, berry flavours (think strawberries and raspberries), and a hint of floral essence, Rosé always earns its place at the table.

One of Rosé’s most outstanding features is its versatility — it pairs effortlessly with grilled meats, fruit platters, and even our all-time favourite: pelmeni :) At our picnic, we enjoyed it with toasts topped with ricotta, fresh strawberries, balsamic glaze, and a touch of pink pepper, creating a perfect balance of fruit, creaminess, and spice.

My Domaine Lafage Coté Rosé came from Decántalo, but you can explore plenty of other excellent Rosés elsewhere, too.

A Bulgarian Surprise: Gamza Rosé 2023

The evening’s highlight was Gamza Rosé 2023 from Borovitza — a small winery in the north-west of Bulgaria, nestled between Romania and Serbia.

Delicate in colour, elegant and mineral, with a light, refreshing finish — it felt like Bulgaria’s answer to a refined Southern French Rosé. The combination of ricotta, strawberry, balsamic, and pink pepper toasts brought out its bright fruit flavors and made it shine even more.

You can find this and other Bulgarian wines in Munich at Weinleserin wine shop.

Each of these wines captures the essence of summer, offering crisp, vibrant flavours that enhance the joy of outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just beginning your wine journey, these bottles promise to elevate your summer experience.

With Txakoli, Vinho Verde, and either an iconic or surprising Rosé in your basket, you’re set for an evening filled with laughter, good food, and memories to last long after the final sip. Here’s to a season of sunshine, sips, and stories worth remembering.