Red, white and rose FOR THE 4th of July

Jason Clarke, Contributor

Tomorrow marks a great day for the United States as it celebrates Independence Day. Although it's not our holiday, it may inspire a few, like myself, to use it as an excuse to open a bottle or two and share with friends, especially if they are from up north. I would like to raise a few glasses of red, white and rose to the red, white and blue of the US flag.

Light-bodied reds like a Pinot Noir are ideal for those of us just who enjoy reds, particularly over dinner. New to the shelves, or at least new to me, is the Red Diamond Pinot Noir. Quiet sophistication in a bottle that screams red berries in the first whiff and ever so gentle on the palate. Definitely a worthy wine to indulge in over dinner, or at a celebratory summer barbecue. Red Moscatos are also particularly popular and are great daytime summer wines. I quite loved the Rex-Goliath Red Moscato, which, for me, tasted like juice. It was sweet and truly delicious and should be served very cold. This is perfect for those who love something sweet. My only warning is: drink slowly. It is so amazingly delicious that you might forget it's actually a wine. It is a favourite of mine on a Sunday afternoon.

With the oppressive heat we are experiencing, cold and refreshing is the order of the day, and there's a plethora of options at your disposal, particularly US-made wines. Pinot Grigios, Chardonnays, Rieslings and Moscatos or a blend are all great summer options. The idea is to look for really light, crisp white wines that cater to your personal preference. I know sweet is in right now, and particularly with women. A moscato could be a perfect option to enjoy at a ladies' night, although I am beginning to fall in love with Rieslings, simply because they are not as sweet, with some very defining characteristics that make them ideal for any Fourth of July festivity. Fetzer Riesling is "superbly brilliant" (as an English football commentator may say). That first whiff and sip is like summer in a glass - beautiful flavours of peaches and pineapples. It makes you wonder if it was made just for us here in Jamaica. I think this makes for a great in-between if you are trying to find something that would cater to those who like something sweet and those who are looking for something crisp and refreshing like a Pinot Grigio. For me, this is a very approachable wine that is very versatile.

Pink in colour to catch your eyes, sweet to the taste, light and refreshing, rose wines could almost be classified as a festival in your mouth. Typically, with raspberry and strawberry flavours, this is certainly a worthwhile summer addition to your wine list. The playful Californian wine Menage à Trois is one that instantly grabs you. This perfect beach-style wine can be explained only one way, and the producer says it best: The wine is "what happens when you put three attractive, single, young grapes in one exquisite bottle". I must confess, I do have a soft spot for Californian wines, particularly those that have a playful twist.

For any of the celebrations this weekend, whether Fourth of July or World Cup successes, think red, white and rose.

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.