The Country’s Favourite Wine for Summer Bank Holiday

As the Summer Bank Holiday approaches, it is time for us to take a well-deserved break to enjoy and celebrate. Also known as the August Bank Holiday, it was originally established in 1871 and intended to give workers a day off to rest and enjoy some leisure time.

Over the years, it has evolved into a time for families and friends to celebrate the end of summer and make the most of the warm weather. Whether it is a picnic in the park, a barbecue in the backyard, or a day at the beach, the holiday provides an opportunity to cherish the fleeting days of summer before the autumn chill sets in.

In this blog post, we are diving into the country’s favourite wines for the Summer Bank Holiday.

Sparkling Wine

Prosecco – Staple of bliss

This delightful Italian sparkling wine has become a staple of summer celebrations. Its light and bubbly nature makes it perfect for toasting and creating a celebrative ambience. Whether served on its own or as part of the aperitif hour, Prosecco is a budget-friendly option that brings an effervescent charm to any gathering.

Our pick: Bresolin Organic Prosecco Extra Brut – Certified organic and made from Glera grapes, this elegant Prosecco offers fresh citrus and white flower aromas, with a dry, crisp finish. A notch above the usual, it is perfect for those seeking a cleaner, more refined sparkling experience. Ideal with grilled seafood or crunchy salads on a sunny afternoon.

English Sparkling Wine – The nation’s pride

English sparkling wine has been gaining popularity in recent years—and for good reason. Made using traditional methods like Champagne, they are known for their crispness, lively acidity, and lighter body, making them an ideal and elegant alternative for warm summer days.

Our pick: Bee Tree by Sugrue Pinot Noir Rosé – Crafted by renowned winemaker Dermot Sugrue, this sparkling rosé is vibrant and precise, with redcurrant, wild strawberry, and rose petal notes dancing on the palate. A refined English fizz that shows the incredible potential of homegrown sparkling wines.

Chardonnay – Try a fizzy Chardonnay this summer

Chardonnay is a versatile varietal that makes a lot of people’s favourite wines. From classic white Burgundy and unoaked floral styles to sparkling Blanc de Blancs, this grape offers it all. While a traditional fuller-bodied and oaky Chardonnay may be too heavy for alfresco dining during summer, a Pet Nat version can be a refreshing twist—natural effervescence and vibrant freshness make it perfect for the occasion.

Learn more about Pet Nat here

Our pick: Gassac Folie Pet Nat – 100% Chardonnay made in the ancestral method. Expect crisp apple, raw almond, white peach, and a floral lift, all wrapped in gentle bubbles. Perfect with a cheeseboard or sushi under the sun.

White Wine

Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Gris

Pinot Grigio is a classic dry, fresh, and affordable choice for white wine. If you like this style but are looking for something with more depth, try Pinot Gris. It often offers citrus, pear, nectarine, and white peach notes with a subtle layer of honeysuckle and baking spices.

Our Pick: Despite the European origins, we selected two new world representatives that reference the home of this grape varietal. From California, Clendenen Family Vineyards Pinot Gris is influenced by the Alsace region in France. All the way to New York state, Channing Daughters Pinot Grigio, an East Coast expression of Pinot Grigio.

Do you know?
Two names, One grape. Pinot Grigio, from Italy; Pinot Gris, flourishing in the French vineyards. While they share the same DNA, the magic lies in how they are cultivated and crafted, resulting in two distinct styles of wine.

Sauvignon Blanc – The beloved zingy charm

With its zesty character and bright acidity, Sauvignon Blanc is a beloved option for warm summer days. From vibrant tropical fruit to herbaceous grassy notes, its crisp profile complements summer cuisine perfectly—from fresh seafood to garden salads.

Our pick: Antoine De La Farge Enfante Rebelle Blanc – A hidden gem from the Loire Valley, this wine delivers a Sancerre-like experience with lemon zest, gooseberry, and mineral tension—all at just £15. A brilliant alternative for Sauvignon lovers looking for excellent value and elegance.

Rosé Wine

Provence Rosé – The Rosé season is here.

Rosé wines have become synonymous with summer. With its pale hues and delicate aromas, Provence Rosé has gracefully earned its place as a seasonal favourite. Light, refreshing, and effortlessly chic—it’s perfect for long lunches and seaside soirées.

Our pick: Sarrins “S” Provence Rosé – Made by the Paillard family, who also craft grower Champagne, this classic Provençal rosé combines finesse and elegance. With white peach, grapefruit, and a mineral finish, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your garden gathering.

Red Wine

Malbec – The ultimate barbecue companion

When it comes to bold reds, Malbec is the go-to for backyard barbecues. Its velvety texture, black fruit intensity, and smoky undertones make it the perfect match for grilled meats, sausages, and charred vegetables.

Our pick: Alpamanta Malbec – Organically and biodynamically farmed, this Argentine beauty is vibrant with plum, violet, and spice notes. Medium-bodied and fresh, it’s a thoughtful and delicious pairing for summer feasts.

Merlot – Easily the crowd-pleaser

Known for its approachable and versatile character, its soft tannins and fruit-driven flavours of plums and cherries, it is a red wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. No wonder Merlot is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Our pick: Moulin de Gassac Merlot – This southern French Merlot offers fantastic value with generous dark fruit, soft spice, and a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. Crafted with minimal intervention, it reflects the sunny Languedoc terroir while maintaining balance and freshness. A reliable, easy-drinking red perfect for casual dinners or sipping with friends during a long summer evening.

Rioja – Beyond Reserva

A renowned wine region in Spain, is often celebrated for its rich and complex red wines. The lighter and younger Crianza style red wine is a hidden gem perfect for the summer season. Also mainly based in Temprnillo, they offer vibrant fruit red and black berries flavours, graceful tannins, and less dominant oak elements due to much shorter oak ageing.

Our Pick: Vina Los Valles Rioja Crianza –  Balanced, spicy, and elegant, with notes of cherry, fig, baking spices and a touch of vanilla. A food-friendly options that will go well with a Al Fresco Sunday roast!

Do you know?
Apart from renowned Tempranillo-based red wine, the region also produces mouth-filling fruity and aromatic white wines that are perfect for roasted chicken or fatty fish dishes!

Pinot Noir – All year round favourite 

Often referred to as the “heartbreak grape” due to its delicate nature, Pinot Noir remains a beloved choice among wine enthusiasts worldwide and in this country. Its lighter body, red fruit flavours, and soft tannins finish make it an excellent accompaniment to an array of dishes or simply for sipping and savouring.

Our pick: Mark Haisma Pinot Noir / Gamay – A brilliant blend of two charismatic red varieties. The Pinot offers elegance and structure, while Gamay brings juicy energy and floral lift. A delicious, chilled option to kick off the summer evening with friends.

Let’s embrace and cherish this summer!

Whether you are basking in the sun at a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or simply relaxing with friends and family, a glass of your favourite wine can elevate the experience. So, forget about the weather coming in the next months—celebrate the present with a toast to summer’s finest.

Next in our Regions & Producers series: Different Styles of Champagne

This Blog post is written by Sharon Wong
Consumer Sales and Marketing Manager of Wanderlust Wine 

Sharon is the the driving force behind our website, wine club, marketing activities, and Wanderlust Wine events.