When the sun makes a rare but glorious appearance in Aberdeen, wine lists shift. Out go the heavy reds and in come the wines that shine with a chill, fresh, vibrant, and built for garden tables, seafood platters, and long evenings that stretch past nine.
At United Supplies Wine, we’re seeing a clear seasonal trend: chillable reds and crisp whites are leading the charge for summer service. Here’s how to make them work for your venue.
Chillable Reds: Light, Bright, and Unexpected
Not all reds need to be room temperature. In fact, some perform better with a 20-minute stint in the fridge. These wines are typically:
- Low in tannin (so they don’t go harsh when chilled)
- High in acidity (to stay fresh and food-friendly)
- Fruit-forward (think red berries, not blackcurrant or oak)
Top picks for your list:
- Beaujolais (Gamay) – juicy, floral, and perfect with charcuterie
- Cinsault – light-bodied and aromatic, ideal for grilled veg or salmon
- Frappato or Zweigelt – lesser-known but great for discovery pours
- Chilled Pinot Noir – especially from cooler climates like Germany or New Zealand
Serving tip: Offer a “lightly chilled” red by the glass and watch it become a talking point.
Al Fresco Whites: Crisp, Clean, and Crowd-Pleasing
Summer whites should be zippy, aromatic, and versatile, easy to drink on their own, but structured enough to pair with seafood, salads, and lighter fare.
Top picks for your list:
- Albariño – citrusy and saline, brilliant with shellfish
- Picpoul de Pinet – a go-to for oysters and fried fish
- Vermentino – herbal and fresh, great with grilled prawns
- Unoaked Chardonnay – clean and rounded, ideal for chicken or creamy pasta
- English Bacchus – a local hero with elderflower lift and summer appeal
Presentation tip: Serve in frosted glassware or carafes for a premium touch.
Why It Matters
These wines aren’t just seasonal, they’re margin-friendly, trend-aligned, and easy to upsell. They also give your team something new to talk about, especially when paired with summer menus or garden service.
At United Supplies Wine, we help venues across the North East build seasonal wine lists that perform – on the floor and on the books.
Looking to refresh your list for summer?
We’d love to help. Get in touch to explore our latest trade-only wines and discover what’s pouring well across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.