Breaking out the summer whites

[JohnG]

Now that summer appears to have arrived (80's in Wisconsin in April makes me think that there's something to this global warming idea), chilled white wines are starting to look appealing. I'd like to branch into some new wines, and was looking for suggestions for nonwimpy whites that can cut the heat of the season. I don't tend to like oaky chardonnays, and pinot grigio often is a bit too light, but I've particularly enjoyed sauvignon blanc (esp. from NZ), malvasia bianco (esp. from Bonny Doon), and viognier in the past.

Any recommedations?

[Innkeeper]

Your plans look good John, but first lets go to your dimissive list. Try some Macon-Villages or other Maconnaise. Try some unwooded chards from DownUnder. Not all PGs are wimpy. Try Ritratti's. We spun though a case of it last summer. As far as SB's are concerned, don't forget the Loire. Sancerre is to die for as are the Kiwis. Forget about most California SB. Also beware of viognier from there. George DuB's are great, as are other Vins de Pays. Some from the Eastern U.S. are fine too, e.g. Horton from VA. Do put the two very modern Italian Vs on your list. Talking about Verdicchio and Vermentino. Both make wonderful quaffers. We plan on a case of 2000 Sartarelli, die Castelli di Jesi, Verdicchio for our summer guests. Although we are retired innkeepers, we still have friends!

[hotwine]

Our favorites of that type include:
Pinot Grigio - Tommasi
CA Sauvignon Blanc - Deerfield Ranch
Sancerre - Domaine de la Rossignole
Inexpensive French SB - Michel Lynch

Each of those has its own style and application to pairing with a meal, but they are all delightful summer quaffers.

[zenda2]

Some of the best summer whites are sorta pinkish. Try Bonny Doon Vin Gris de Cigare. And don't forget Bonny Doon's Pacific Rim Riesling.

[JohnG]

Thanks, all, for the suggestions.