Flip flops, check; sun glasses, check; sunblock, check; drinks…wait. What are we sipping for summer, 2014? We just had to get some expert advice on what should be in your glass or cup over the much anticipated hot, hyped and happening holiday period.
Beverages are everywhere but get sipping on our picks, whether you are at the beach or a barbecue, at Sumfest or a Smirnoff dream event and don’t forget to grab a glass and toast to the excitement of the Jamaica Festival or the ‘Emanci-pendence’ Weekend.
Michael Turner, Wines Brand Associate at Caribbean Producers, shared his expertise on the best ways to ‘wine and dine’ over the long sweltering summer months.
Wine connoisseurs can look forward to enjoying ‘Hob Nob’. “It is a good representation of French wines because it is modern and not complex. It’s also a good play on the phrase ‘hob nob’ as it’s great for that, too. This wine is also perfect for summer barbecues.”
Farnese Pino Grigio is a fine white wine and Turner was quick to chip in that Jamaicans need to break the mould and get away from the notion that women alone drink white wine. “It’s great for the heat and backyard dining plus it goes well with fried foods like fried chicken or fried fish.”
As far as getting comfortable at events, whether it be in your back yard or at a huge staged production, this summer is all about
experimenting with different flavour profiles and Turner also highlighted some wines he feels women especially may get a kick out of. “There are many to choose from so whether you are getting ready for a night on the town or chilling at a friend’s home, your evening can be so much more fun with a glass or two of good wine.”
Firstly, Turner recommends the Fresita Sparking Wine. “It has that slightly sweet taste and has less alcohol content so you don’t have to worry about getting tipsy and falling down in your stilettos, so no harm will be done.”
There is also the Yellow Tail Moscato. “This is the brand that everybody knows and loves. Why it works so well is because it’s a tropical brand with a taste of lychee, passion fruit etc. so it is sweet and great for someone new to wines and for those who want to try something different.”
Now, when it comes to wines, there is absolutely no wrong time of day for, as Turner phrased it, any time is ‘wine-o-clock’. “From 10am onwards especially when you’re having brunch and sipping on some wonderful mimosas.”
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