Some may have their favorite rosé or Sauvignon Blanc bottle closer to them than their sunscreen. If that’s not you, then the options can be daunting. We here at Little West Wine & Spirits are offering some suggestions for summer wines that won’t bog you down in the city heat. Instead of your typical rosé suggestions, Little West Wine’s owner, Andy Miao, offers wines that are different from your go-to varieties. The shop’s wine consultant Daniel Jung, who is the Head Sommelier at the Tribeca Grill, has not only personally tasted every single bottle of the wine that they carry, but he also has marked the customized detailed charts for each wine, so that customers can choose wine of their preferences in the simplest and the most efficient way.

Insider tip: Little West Wines offers free tastings every day after 5pm, so you can try it before you buy it! And let’s face it, who doesn’t like sipping on wine in a chic space.

Here are some of our suggestions in both red and white sure to make a splash all summer long.

WHITE WINES:

Amestoi, Txakolina, Spain

Txakolina is wine produced in the Basque Region of Spain.

These are famous for their petillant character. The wines are made with a small amount of carbonation giving the wine a light and delicate spritz. Crisp and clean with citrus and stone fruits. This wine is perfect for anything from a watermelon salad to grilled shrimp. (Sustainable)

Gobelsburg, Gruner Vetliner, Austria

Gruner Vetliner is the most notable of Austrian white wine. It is a versatile white and can be easily enjoyed during any weather. Gruner is known for its refreshing acidity. The Gobelsburg Gruner Vetliner is unoaked and has notes of citrus, pear, white pepper and minerality. (Sustainable)

RED WINES:

Olga Raffault, Cabernet Franc, Chinon

Cabernet Franc has its home in both the Bordeaux region of France and the Loire Valley.

The Olga Raffault is one of the best Cabernet Franc wines to come out of the Loire Valley. Its an enticing mix of mild tannins juicy plummy and dark fruit. With notes of black pepper spice and violets. (Sustainable/Biodynamic)

Domaine De Cristia, Grenache, Rhone 

Grenache is a grape included in red blends and also bottled as a single varietal grape. It is also a true crowd pleaser. Dominated by soft tannins and earthy character, its flavors are cherry fruit with hints of spice and licorice. An easy wine to pair with anything from vegetarian fare to grilled meats. (Organic)

Learn more about Little West Wines here.