Which wines should you drink by season?

Wine choice varies depending on many factors: the occasion, the dish, and even the temperature outside. The seasons shape both our preferences and the way we enjoy wine. A fresh wine is ideal in summer, while a more structured wine finds its place in winter.

Discover how to choose the spring wine, summer wine, autumn wine, and winter wine so you can make the most of every season.

Spring: fresh, floral wines

With the return of warmer days, cravings turn to light, aromatic wines. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy crisp white wines, fruity rosés, and supple reds.

Spring white wines

Dry, fresh white wines bring a lovely lift on the palate.

• Sauvignon Blanc: its lemony, floral edge is perfect for spring salads.
• Chenin Blanc: whether dry or slightly off-dry, it pairs beautifully with light dishes.
• Dry Muscat: its notes of white flowers and fresh fruit are ideal for sunny aperitifs.

Rosés to reach for

The spring wine often means rosé, a true symbol of conviviality.

• Rosé de Provence: fresh and fruity, it pairs well with Mediterranean dishes.
• Tavel: more structured, it works beautifully with spring grilled dishes.

Light spring reds

Red wines should stay supple and low in tannins.

• Pinot Noir: light and fruity, it’s perfect with white meats or grilled vegetables.
• Gamay: its generous, fresh style suits seasonal dishes.

Summer: freshness and lightness take center stage

When temperatures rise, you want wines that are refreshing, easy to drink, and lower in alcohol.

Summer whites

A summer wine should be fresh and aromatic.

• Riesling: dry and mineral, it pairs beautifully with seafood.
• Vermentino: its brightness is ideal for Mediterranean dishes.
• Chablis: with its lovely acidity, it elevates grilled fish.

Rosés you can’t miss

Summer is rosé season, pure and simple.

• Côtes de Provence: light and fruity, it’s perfect for terrace aperitifs.
• Cabernet d’Anjou: slightly sweet, it pairs well with exotic dishes.

Summer reds

Some reds can be enjoyed chilled, at around 14°C.

• Beaujolais: light and fruity, it can handle a slight chill.
• Cinsault: supple and aromatic, it pairs well with grilled dishes.

Autumn: round, balanced wines

Autumn signals the return of heartier dishes. The autumn wine should be more structured and able to stand up to comforting food.

Whites with more evolved aromas

Autumn whites gain in complexity and roundness.

• Viognier: its apricot and honey notes pair well with rich dishes.
• Gewurztraminer: aromatic and spicy, it works beautifully with exotic cuisine.
• Meursault: a rich, generous Chardonnay for white meats in sauce.

Characterful reds

Autumn marks the return of fuller-bodied red wines.

• Merlot: round and fruity, it pairs well with slow-cooked dishes.
• Grenache: warm and generous, it goes well with cheese and braised meats.
• Nebbiolo: powerful and tannic, perfect for rich dishes.

Winter: powerful, warming wines

In winter, you want wines that bring warmth and comfort. The dishes are richer, so the wines need to rise to the occasion.

Creamy whites

Winter white wines are often oaked and more complex.

• Sauternes: ideal with blue cheeses.
• Vin Jaune du Jura: its unique character elevates cream-based dishes.
• Burgundy Chardonnay: rich and intense, perfect for saucy dishes.

Powerful, tannic reds

The winter wine is often structured, with a strong tannic presence.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: intense and deep, it pairs well with red meats.
• Syrah: its spicy notes suit saucy dishes and stews.
• Malbec: full-bodied and structured, it pairs beautifully with game dishes.

Adapting wine service to the seasons

Whatever the season, serving temperature plays an essential role.

• Summer whites and rosés should be served chilled, between 8 and 12°C.
• Light spring reds can be enjoyed between 12 and 14°C.
• Full-bodied winter reds should be around 16 to 18°C.

Good storage and proper aeration help you appreciate each wine at its best.

Conclusion

Wine choice changes with the seasons. Spring rhymes with freshness and lightness, summer with brightness and suppleness, autumn with roundness and balance, while winter calls for powerful, warming wines.

Matching your wine to the season lets you fully enjoy the flavors and the pairings with the dishes of the moment.

If you enjoyed this article, don’t hesitate to read the next one, "What Is Natural Wine?", which might interest you too!