It’s summer, and it’s warm. As anyone knows, a cold beverage helps to beat the heat. Sparkling water, iced tea, and soda might do the trick, but when you need to elevate the offering, these lovely white wines provide a bit of summertime chill. Keep a bottle or two in the fridge for impromptu get-togethers, and don’t be surprised if your generosity makes your home the preferred gathering spot on simmering summer evenings.

Bella Sirena: This wine is made from 100% hand-harvested Falanghina grapes, which are grown in the warm Mediterranean climate of Southern Italy, specifically in Campania, where the vines flourish in the volcanic soils surrounding Mount Vesuvius. It is dry and crisp on the palette with classic apple and pear flavors and has tropical and citrus blossom aromas. ($28)

Bella Sirena. Photo courtesy of the winery

Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2023: A vibrant vintage from the Stellenbosch region in South Africa, and the first wine released by the Simonsig label in 1968, this wine features an expressive nose of stone fruits with layers of tropical fruits. It is versatile, with freshness and a lively acidity. ($14.99)

Simonsig Chenin Blanc. Photo by Fran Miller

Crossbarn Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2023: This wine opens with aromas of freshly picked green apple, fragrantly perfumed with Meyer lemon zest, gardenia, honeysuckle, and orange blossom. On the palate, notes of Honeycrisp apple lead a well-focused palate punctuated by a burst of fresh guava. Mineral-driven, vibrant acidity accented with a flaky sea salt-like crunchiness interlaced with a delicate creamy yet firmly structured texture. The finish is pure and clean with good tension and energy through the lingering, expressively juicy finish. ($35)

Crossbarn Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Photo courtesy of the winery

StoneCap Chardonnay 2023: This wine from renowned Goose Ridge Vineyard in Washington’s Columbia Valley is bright and refreshing with expressive floral notes and citrus fruit flavors that blend with lush tropical fruit and mineral notes. It is named for the windblown soils of the region which leave a “stonecap” at the top of the hills. ($11.99)

StoneCap Chardonnay. Photo by Fran Miller

Cloudy Bay 2023 Sauvignon Blanc: The brand’s flagship wine since 1985, it put New Zealand on the wine map, forever changing the perception of Sauvignon Blanc as a varietal. It has a zesty and vibrant nose, with notes of juicy citrus and makrut lime underpinned by subtle white nectarine and passionfruit. Tropical hints of peach and guava are balanced by stony saline notes. Pair with classic dishes like fresh seafood and grilled vegetables, or enjoy on a summer weekend. ($35)

Cloudy Bay 2023 Sauvignon Blanc. Photo courtesy of the winery

Attems Sauvignon Blanc 2023: This wine from Italy’s Venezia Giulia region, from vineyards located between the plains and slopes in the Province of Gorizia, stands apart with an extra layer of complexity and structure. Straw yellow in color, It boasts a distinctive, complex bouquet. On the palate, it is light and smooth, with notes of citrus, Fuji apple and a salty finish. ($23.99)

Attems Sauvignon Blanc. Photo by Fran Miller

Count Karolyi Gruner Vetliner 2023: This wine from the Pannon region of Hungary is a great accompaniment to fish, shellfish, pasta or summer salads. It features fresh aromas of peach and apricot, light notes of white pepper, and a balanced acidity—very typical of a Pannon Gruner. ($11.99)

Count Karolyi Gruner Vetliner. Photo by Fran Miller

Varvaglione 12 e Mezzo Chardonnay DOP Puglia IGP: Located in Puglia, Italy, Varvaglione 1921 features sunny weather and beautiful beaches—the inspiration for this crisp, refreshing interpretation of chardonnay, made with organically grown grapes. The 12.5% ABV makes it an ideal choice for a relaxing day by the pool, pond, or lake, when you want to take it easy but still enjoy a delicious summer white. The Varvaglione family has been making wine in Puglia for four generations; the 12 e Mezzo line honors their history. ($14.99)

Varvagione 12 e Mezzo Chardonnay DOP Puglia IGP. Photo courtesy of the winery

Geyser Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2022: This is a balanced California wine, the brand of which is named for the beautiful of Geyser Peak Mountain directly outside the winery’s windows. 95% Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of 5% Viognier for a rounder mouthfeel, it features notes of pineapple, melon, peach and apricot. ($13.99)

Geyser Peak Sauvignon Blanc. Photo by Fran Miller

Attems Pinot Grigio 2023: The classic Pinot Grigio from historic vineyards in the Friuli region of northeast Italy has a beautiful straw yellow color. On the nose the aroma is clear and exuberant featuring wildflowers, cedar and Williams pear with sweeter hints of cocoa butter and vanilla. On the palate, a salty acidity leads to a finish of white pepper and citrus peel. ($17.99)

Attems Pinot Grigio. Photo by Fran Miller

Early Mountain Petit Manseng 2022: From Virginia, this 2022 vintage is exceptionally layered, with notes of grilled pineapple, ripe stone fruits, bright lemon curd, and hints of dried fruits, balanced with an undertone of brioche. Winemaker Maya Hood White uses ‘perpetual lees’ to add aromatic depth, autolytic flavors, and unparalleled complexity to the wine. ($65)

Early Mountain Petit Manseng 2022. Photo by Fran Miller

Ram’s Gate 2022 Pinot Blanc, Estate: There are merely 250 acres planted for Pinot Blanc in the entire state of California. Thanks to Ram’s Gate owner Jeff O’Neill’s appreciation for the spectrum of possible varieties, four of those acres are planted at Ram’s Gate’s organically farmed estate vineyard in Sonoma’s Carneros AVA. This wine is characterized by nuances of wheatgrass, fresh honey, and a hint of apricot. It boasts vibrant acidity and a slight viscosity, making it not merely a delightful summer wine, but also a versatile companion to richer dishes year-round. ($40)