Barbecue season is in full swing, but there’s no reason why beer should be the only alcohol available to guests in your backyard. July and August are the perfect time for wine-soaked weekend cookouts.

Since these late summer days can be scorchers, it’s important to find wines that will keep you feel refreshed and not contribute to your heatstroke (be careful out there!). BBQ wines also need not be expensive — chill summer nights don’t sit well with anything too stuffy.

The search can be difficult, but wines ready for grill days are out there. Here are a few of my favs — whites, rosé, and reds, too!


Clos Beylesse Cotes De Provence Rosé 2016

You’ll find nothing more refreshing at a backyard summer soiree than a glass of chilled rosé. Readily available in most wine stores throughout American and Europe, this soft yet zesty wine is extremely light and delicious. $26

Bieler Family Daisy Pinot Grigio Blend

If grilled veggies are your thing, consider this tasty white wine with herbals hints blended with florals and citrus zest… and it has a daisy on the label. What’s more summery than that? $17

Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon

If you can’t resist slathering your burgers with ketchup, try pairing it with a ripe California Cabernet like Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon. The cherry and blackberry notes will cleanse your palate and prep it for the next condiment covered bite of burger. $14

Santa Julia Tintillo Malbec-Bonardo 

Chilled red is the new rosé. Serve this 50 percent Malbec and 50 percent Bonarda blend chilled for fresh and fruity aromas like strawberry, raspberries and cherries. Pull this one from the fridge during a sunny day barbecue. $12

Lapostolle 2016 “Le Rosé”

Made in Chile with Mediterranean grapes, this cool wine is lightly perfumed with rose flower and tastes light silky strawberries and apricots. It goes great with creamy coleslaws and slow-cooked grilled meats. $16

Casa Marin, Miramar Vineyard Riesling 2015

Notes of fresh apple make this a perfect pairing for grilled chicken or pork chops. $25

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Meghan is a full-time writer exploring the fun facts behind food. She lives a healthy lifestyle but lives for breakfast, dessert and anything with marinara. She’s thrown away just as many meals as she’s proud of.