by Robert Giles

Spring is a great time to start thinking about some of the lighter wines that go with warmer weather. Riesling and Rosé are always going to be my picks, and here are some favorites.

Riesling is a versatile wine that can range from very sweet late-harvest style to dry and aromatic, but it will always have a good acidity. Originating in the Rhine region, this grape has traveled across the world—preferring cooler regions—and now grows in several countries.

Clean Slate from the Mosel region in Germany offers an off-dry Riesling that is light and refreshing. With notes of fresh peach and light spice, it pairs well with spicy cuisine, fish or pork. On its own, it’s a fantastic wine to enjoy on the patio with friends.

For a drier style, I recommend Prost Dry Riesling from the Rheinhessen region just east of Mosel. This wine excites with strong notes of green apple, peach, and apricot that are backed by a strong acidity and refreshing minerality. Paired with grilled pork or salmon, it’s a fantastic wine for any early spring cookout.

If you instead crave something that has a little more body, you may want to choose Rosé. This style of wine uses a short contact time with the skins of grapes to produce light, pink wines that will be refreshing with light tannic qualities. Rosé is great for outdoor gatherings and can bridge the gap between red and white wine.

Domaine Fontsainte Gris de Gris is a very light Rosé that pairs well with salty cheeses or smoked salmon. It’s a fantastic gathering wine with notes of nectarine, lemon, and orange blossom and a mineral finish.

In Oregon, several wineries have begun to use Pinot Noir grapes to make a style of Rosé that retains the familiar cherry notes and acidity of their red wines while still being light bodied. King Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir is a great example of this. A palate of cherry, lime zest, and strawberry combined with fresh acidity make this a wonderful afternoon wine that pairs well with light spring dinners.

Whether you choose Riesling or Rosé, the lightness of spring will be on full display. These options will get you started, and there are lots more that our wine experts can help you discover. Cheers!