July 4th is days away. By now, your grilling menu is set (if not, check out our extensive July 4th menus). The next decision is what wine to serve? Look no further. BA's resident wine expert, Senior Editor Heather John, shares her ultimate grill wine as well as four other top picks. Happy 4th!
THE ULTIMATE GRILL WINE:
2005 E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rouge, France ($12)
The most versatile barbecue wine, this Cotes du Rhone red is a blend of Syrah and Grenache with raspberry, rosemary and classic white pepper notes that stands up to steak but won't overpower pork
PAIR WITH: Grilled lamb, steak, pork, vegetables
BEST OF THE REST:
2008 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($14)
Citrus and tropical fruit flavors balanced by crisp acidity.
PAIR WITH: Grilled seafood or trout, turkey burgers, grilled vegetables
2007 Pewsey Vale Riesling, Eden Valley, South Australia ($14)
A lush, dry Riesling with honeysuckle and citrus
PAIR WITH: Ginger and honey baby back ribs, pork chops, spicy and ethnic cuisines
2008 Chateau St Pierre Rose, Cotes du Provence, France ($14)
Fresh strawberry and peach notes with floral aromas
PAIR WITH: Grilled chicken, grilled salmon, grilled nectarines, pork chops, pasta dishes
2005 Ramon Bilbao "Black Label" Tempranillo Crianza, Rioja, Spain ($12)
Black cherry and plum with just enough oak
PAIR WITH: Grilled steaks, burgers, Manchego cheese garlic hot dogs, sausages