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Raise your glass - Light, crisp wines the way to go for summer

Published:Thursday | June 19, 2014 | 12:00 AM
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Trapiche Extra Brut is a great way to start any summer wine tasting, and these beauties know it.
As the summer temperature rises, a bottle of Fetzer White Zinfandel is perfect to keep you cool and in a good mood.
The perfect host, Jason Clarke, pours the ladies a glass.
Miss Jamaica World contestants taking a sip of the white Zinfandel. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
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What better way to kick-start the summer, than with the contestants of the Miss Jamaica World 2014 pageant? Last week, I had the privilege of hosting this bevy of beauties at Bin26 Wine Bar at Devon House, and shared with them some great summer wine options as we combat the heat on a hot day.

The girls would all agree that a dry sparkling is not only refreshing, but adds a touch of sophistication, all at the same time. We started with the Trapiche Extra Brut. No, its not a champagne, but it falls into the same realm as a sparkling wine. Fairly inexpensive, it's the perfect selection for an evening gathering during the summer. Like all other sparklings, it is best when served extremely cold and, most important, in a flute, so you can see the infamous bubbles spiral in the glass. The taste has a crisp citrus finish, which is why it's so refreshing. This is definitely something you could serve by itself or with a light meal, or if you are in the celebratory mood - your team's win in a World Cup match. There have been lots of particularly interesting matches thus far worthy of celebrating.

Another great summer option, which I am sure many may not have considered, is a white Zinfandel. This rose-coloured wine with strawberry aromas, makes this a perfect addition to your summer wine list. This mildly sweet wine is not only refreshing, but sweet enough to tickle your palate.

The contestants absolutely enjoyed the Fetzer White Zinfandel, that because of its versatility, can be paired with most summer foods, like the many barbecues that are likely to ensue over the summer, not to mention lounging by the pool or on the beach, also a great option sitting in front of the television watching 'the greatest show on earth'. Other great white Zinfandels worth trying are from Sutter Home and Barefoot.

This summer, think of wines that are light, and served very cold, as the perfect complement to the heat. So try something new and enjoy the summer.

I am not an expert, merely a wine enthusiast sharing my thoughts and experiences. Feel free to share your own experiences at wineenthusiastja@gmail.com.