Summer Soirée in Six Bottles: Your Guide to Hosting with Style & Sip

Sunshine, slow sunsets, and the sweet sound of glasses clinking—hello, summer hosting season. Whether you're planning a backyard dinner, a lakeside lunch, or just a casual patio catch-up, the secret to a standout gathering is in the bottle. From crisp whites and elegant rosés to bold reds that bring the heat, here’s how to curate your ultimate summer wine lineup with six must-have sips.

1. Start Bright

Kick off your gathering with a glass that screams sunshine. Hailing from South Africa, Arniston Bay Sauvignon Blanc is refreshingly zesty with notes of citrus, green apple, and a splash of sea breeze. Perfect for welcome pours, poolside lounging, or pairing with a bright summer salad topped with goat cheese and citrus vinaigrette. Instant good vibes.

2. Go Lush

Add a touch of luxury with Domaine Laroche Viognier. This aromatic white is like summer in a silk scarf—ripe peach, honeysuckle, and a creamy, velvety texture that glides across the palate. Serve it with grilled peaches, spicy shrimp skewers, or a Thai mango salad for a wow-worthy pairing. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter.

3. Elevate the Mood

Ready to impress your guests? Pull out the Domaine Laroche Chablis. Elegant and precise, this French classic brings flinty minerality, vibrant acidity, and whispers of white flowers. It’s perfect for your oyster bar moment or that beautifully buttered lobster tail. Cool, collected, and undeniably chic.

4. Think Pink

What’s a summer party without rosé? Ogier Ventoux Rosé brings Provence flair with its pale blush hue, fresh red berries, and thirst-quenching finish. Serve it chilled with charcuterie, watermelon & feta skewers, or just pour it into a pitcher with frozen berries and mint for an easy wine spritz. It’s summer’s signature sip.

5. Fire Up the Grill

As the sun starts to dip, bring out the Ogier Ventoux Rouge. This smooth and juicy red from the Rhône Valley is made for twilight grilling sessions. Think black cherry, spice, and soft tannins that pair beautifully with grilled lamb chops, smoky portobellos, or even a burger with brie. No fuss, all flavour.

6. End Boldly

Wrap up your soirée with some Bordeaux charm. J. Lebègue Lussac St. Émilion is your go-to for fireside conversations and late-night pours. It’s lush with plum, cassis, and a whisper of oak—ideal with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, or simply sipping under the stars. Elegant, soulful, and undeniably French.

Final Sip: This curated lineup isn’t just a wine list—it’s a journey from day to dusk, beach to backyard, toast to table. With these six versatile bottles, you’ll be hosting like a pro all summer long.

So swirl, sip, and savour—because the best memories are made with a glass in hand and your favourite people around the table.