Fresh Whites And Rosés From Southern Europe

I tend to pair wines with foods, not seasons, but I know many people love fresh whites and crisp rosés in the summer. So before August slips by us, here are some new whites and reds from southern Europe to refresh our palates.

2012 Terras Gauda O Rosal Rias Baixas ($24). A fuller, somewhat fruitier albariño, much like a chardonnay in flavor.

2012 Terras Gauda "Abadia de San Campio" Rias Baixas albariño ($14). Quite enjoyable — juicy, well-balanced with tangy green fruits balanced by lightly creamy citrus notes.

2012 Terras Gauda "La Mar" Rias Baixas white wine ($35). Rather than straight albariño, the grapes here are primarily caiño bianco with a little albariño and loureiro. Brilliant gold with a lot of citrus — lemon, lime, orange — and a crisp finish.

2012 Cantina di Soave Re Midas Soave ($9). Nicely rounded apple flavors with a hint of cream and good acidity. Very acceptable food wine.

2012 Cantina di Soave Rocca Sveva Soave classico ($12). Quite floral and a little soft on the palate. Fragrant, but lacks length — unusual for a classico.

2012 Marrenon "Grande Toque" Luberon rosé ($12). From syrah and grenache grapes, this pink is pleasantly pungent in the nose with ripe, tangy strawberry and citrus flavors and a clean finish.

2012 Marrenon "Petula" Luberon rosé  ($17). Also from syrah and grenache, this one is a touch more lanquid and creamier but with similar flavors.