Ah, spring — that magical time when the sun finally decides to show up, the flowers bloom, and we all get the sudden urge to sit on the grass with a glass of something delicious. Yes, it’s officially picnic season, and at W1NE LOVE, we couldn’t be more excited. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your mates, pack a blanket, and pop open a bottle or two under the open sky.
Whether you’re heading to your local park, a country field, or even just the back garden, wine and snacks are the ultimate picnic power couple. But before you dash out with a bottle clinking in your tote, let’s make sure you’re doing picnic wine like a pro.
How to Keep Your Wine Cool (Without Lugging a Fridge)
Let’s be honest, lukewarm white wine on a warm spring day? Not the vibe. Here are a few clever ways to keep your wine at the perfect sipping temperature:
Freeze grapes the night before and pop them into your glass as edible ice cubes. They won’t water down your wine and look gorgeous too.
Wrap your bottle in a damp tea towel and store it in a cool bag or insulated bottle carrier. It’ll stay chilled for a few hours.
Bring a thermos-style wine flask — yes, they exist, and they’re genius. Keeps wine cold and discreet. You’re welcome.
Wine Pairings Perfect for a Spring Picnic
Spring picnics call for easy, flavourful bites — nothing too heavy. Think charcuterie, cheese, olives, dips, crusty bread…and of course, wine to match.
Charcuterie & Dry Rosé (Provence-style, 2022 vintage): Look for a pale, salmon-hued rosé made from Grenache, Cinsault or Mourvèdre. These dry rosés often carry subtle notes of wild strawberry, melon and a faint herbal finish. Perfect with cured meats like prosciutto, bresaola or Spanish chorizo. Bonus tip: choose a bottle aged in stainless steel for freshness and zip.
Goat’s Cheese & Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc (2021–2022): Think Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé — these crisp, mineral-driven whites offer notes of lime zest, green apple and flint. Their high acidity and citrusy lift make them a dream match for tangy soft cheeses like chèvre.
Hummus & Grenache Blanc (Unoaked, Southern Rhône or Spain): Grenache Blanc (or Garnacha Blanca) brings ripe stone fruit and subtle almond notes. Choose an unoaked style for a bright, food-friendly white that plays well with creamy dips and roasted veg. Fresh, soft and versatile — like spring in a bottle.
Fun fact: The ancient Greeks used to mix their wine with herbs and seawater during outdoor feasts. We’re not suggesting that (please don’t), but it shows just how long humans have been obsessed with sipping wine outside!
Snack Like You Mean It: Quick Recipe & Pairing
Mini Brie & Grape Skewers
Slice a wheel of brie into bite-sized cubes.
Alternate on cocktail sticks with seedless red grapes.
Drizzle lightly with honey and a pinch of crushed walnuts.
Wine pairing: A Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley (Vouvray, demi-sec, 2020–2022 vintage). The slight sweetness, creamy texture and high acidity balance the creaminess of the Brie, the sweetness of the grapes and the crunch of the nuts — an indulgent yet light springtime match.
So, dust off that picnic basket, grab your favourite bottle, and toast to spring in the best way possible — with wine, sunshine, and a few snacks that love you back. And remember: at W1NE LOVE, we believe every bottle tastes better outdoors.
Bottoms up!