In summer, how to keep your wine cool?

Temperatures are rising and the desire to drink a glass of fresh wine is felt? Depending on the colour of the wine, the ideal drinking temperature varies. It is therefore essential to pay attention to the storage of your bottles during the summer and at your picnics. Follow our advice to keep your wine cool and have an even better chance of satisfying your friends!

At what temperature should red wine be served?

The ideal temperature to serve red wine is around 16-18°C. Above this, you will only feel the aromas and its quality will be diminished. The best is to keep your red wine at the right temperature with fresh water in an ice bucket.

It is quite possible to keep it in the freezer for a quick result: If your wine is a light red, it will be ready in ten minutes. On the other hand, if you have a full-bodied wine, wait no more than five minutes and it will be perfect. Don't hesitate to use a timer if you are afraid to forget your bottle!

At what temperature are white and rosé wines served?

For white or rosé wines, there are several methods to keep the freshness of a beautiful bottle. First of all the simplest method: An ice bucket (just like for red wines) with several ice cubes. However, remember to place the bottle of wine at least 30 to 40 minutes before serving time in the ice bucket. Leave it for the meal for example; it should be chilled for dessert!

If you are hosting your friends at home, an hour or two in the fridge never killed the wine or anyone... But remember to take the bottle out a quarter of an hour before serving.

How do you keep your wine cool all summer long?

Do you know about cooling covers? They are very easy to put on the bottle and cool your wine instantly. What's more, you can carry it anywhere for an impromptu picnic!

How does it work? You put the pockets in your freezer for 10 to 15 minutes while they are cooling and that's it!

Wine serving temperatures

If you have any doubts about the serving temperature of your wine, don't hesitate to use a kitchen thermometer! Here is a reminder to know the ideal temperatures for wine tasting :

• A light white wine should be served around 7°c (Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris).
• A sweet or semi-dry white wine (even sweet) like Sauternes or Monbazillac can be served between 11 and 13°c.
• A light red wine like Merlot will be tasted at 16°c
• As an exception to the rule, light grape varieties such as Pinot Noir or Gamay appreciate cooler temperatures than most red wines: between 13°c and 15°c.
• A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel will be ideal at room temperature, around 17°c-18°c.

Bonus tip: if you find wines usually served at room temperature (such as Carignan or Syrah) too tannic, don't hesitate to refresh them slightly to enjoy them more simply!

Guénaëlle (Les Grappes)