Summer in Kansas City calls for crisp, refreshing wines that complement sunshine, barbecues, and patio gatherings. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a cookout, or looking for something light to pair with seafood, our team at Pina Wine & Spirits has handpicked a list of the best wines for summer sipping.
From bright whites to rosés and chilled reds, these staff favorites are available now at your local Pina Wine & Spirits—your go-to liquor store in Kansas City for the best summer wine selection.
Why Summer Wines Matter
When temperatures rise, our palates often crave something lighter, fruitier, and more refreshing. Wines with higher acidity and lower alcohol levels tend to feel more cooling and pair beautifully with summer meals and activities. Think wines that are:
- Crisp and citrusy
- Light-bodied with floral aromas
- Slightly effervescent or chilled
- Low in tannins (ideal for red wine lovers in hot weather)
At Pina Wine & Spirits, we curated a summer-friendly list of wines that align with seasonal flavors and the preferences of our loyal Kansas City customers.
Top White Wines for Summer Sipping
1. Sauvignon Blanc
Pick: Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand)
Sauvignon Blanc is the quintessential summer white. Zesty and herbaceous, it features grapefruit, lime, and passionfruit notes. It’s the perfect wine for sipping on a hot afternoon or pairing with grilled vegetables and seafood.
Pairs well with: Grilled shrimp, goat cheese salads, and ceviche
Alcohol level: ~13%
Pro tip: Chill to about 45°F for peak crispness.
2. Albariño
Pick: Martín Códax Albariño (Spain)
Albariño is a refreshing white with citrus, green apple, and saline notes. It’s a hidden gem for summer sipping and goes great with shellfish or sushi.
Pairs well with: Oysters, fish tacos, sushi
3. Pinot Grigio
Pick: Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (Italy)
Light-bodied, dry, and slightly floral—Pinot Grigio is a crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal for casual gatherings and outdoor parties.
Pairs well with: Chicken skewers, white pizza, charcuterie
Best Rosés to Keep You Cool
4. Provence Rosé
Pick: Whispering Angel Rosé (France)
Elegant and pale pink, Provence Rosé is dry and full of berry and stone fruit flavors. It’s a top seller at Pina during the summer months.
Pairs well with: Mediterranean dishes, grilled salmon, garden salads
Fun fact: Our Lake Lotawana customers swear by this one for lake days!
5. California Rosé Blend
Pick: Bonterra Organic Rosé
Made with organically grown grapes, this rosé blend offers hints of watermelon, rose petal, and citrus. A more eco-conscious pick that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Pairs well with: BBQ chicken, veggie wraps, beach snacks
Chillable Reds for Summer Nights
Yes, you can enjoy red wine in summer—just serve the right styles slightly chilled.
6. Beaujolais
Pick: Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages (France)
This light-bodied red made from Gamay grapes has juicy cherry notes with mild tannins. Serve it slightly chilled (55°F) and enjoy the fruity refreshment.
Pairs well with: Burgers, grilled sausage, portobello mushrooms
Pro tip: Keep it in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
7. Pinot Noir
Pick: Meiomi Pinot Noir (California)
Known for its silky texture and berry-forward profile, Pinot Noir is a versatile summer red. Chilling enhances its refreshing qualities without muting its flavor.
Pairs well with: Cedar plank salmon, soft cheeses, grilled pork
8. Lambrusco (Slightly Sparkling Red)
Pick: Cleto Chiarli Lambrusco Grasparossa
For something different, try this lightly sparkling red from Italy. It’s fruity, slightly sweet, and excellent served cold.
Pairs well with: Charcuterie, spicy grilled meats, pizza
Perfect for: Backyard pizza nights and rooftop dinners
Bubbly Wines That Sparkle All Season
9. Prosecco
Pick: La Marca Prosecco (Italy)
Effervescent and fun, Prosecco is a summer brunch staple. Enjoy it solo or use it for mimosas and spritzes.
Pairs well with: Eggs Benedict, peach sorbet, light apps
10. Sparkling Rosé
Pick: Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé (California)
For those who want bubbles and color, sparkling rosé offers the best of both worlds. Crisp, dry, and elegant.
Pairs well with: Fruit tarts, smoked salmon, picnics
Where to Buy the Best Summer Wines in Kansas City
You can find all these handpicked wines at Pina Wine & Spirits, with multiple convenient locations including:
- Kansas City
- Liberty
- Raymore
- Lee’s Summit
- Odessa
- Grandview
- Excelsior Springs
Use the store locator on our website: https://pinawineandspirits.com
Staff Favorites from the Pina Inner Circle
At Pina, our staff takes pride in helping you discover something new. Here are a few more hot-weather favorites recommended by our wine experts:
- Chenin Blanc – Crisp and floral, ideal for sipping on the porch
- Verdejo – A Spanish white that’s similar to Sauvignon Blanc
- Moscato d’Asti – Lightly sweet and sparkling, perfect for dessert lovers
Ask in-store about our rotating staff picks and tasting notes. We’re always happy to help you choose the right bottle!
Plan Your Summer Wine Run Today
Whether you’re restocking your home bar, prepping for a pool party, or looking for the best wines for summer sipping, Pina Wine & Spirits has you covered. Stop by any of our Missouri locations for unbeatable selection, staff recommendations, and competitive prices on premium wines.
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