It’s the end of a summer we won’t soon forget—a season filled with golden sunsets, laughter, and memories that we’ll carry with us well into the cooler months. We’ve indulged in mouthwatering homemade pasta in Italy, uncorked some of Croatia’s finest wines on an unforgettable wine trip, and let’s just say, we did summer right. From that magical weekend making pasta in Calabria, to swirling glasses Malvazija Istarska while taking in the Adriatic coastline, it’s been an epic ride. And, as the sun starts to set on this season, let’s take a moment to recount some of the best moments in Europe and beyond.
Over the past few months, we’ve been publishing articles about the delightful connection between wine and summertime. From light rosés on a sunlit terrace to bold reds that somehow taste even better under the stars, there’s something magical about pairing great wine with great weather. Wine and summer just have that undeniable spark—kind of like good friends reuniting after a long winter apart. So, what better way to wrap up this amazing season than by diving into the best summer experiences in some of Europe’s most fabulous destinations? Let’s take a trip (virtually, but with all the feels) to Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and even the good old US of A. Get ready to reminisce about summer celebrations, savour the seasonal foods, and dream about next year’s adventures!
Summer in Italy: La Dolce Vita Under the Sun
Ah, Italy in the summer. Is there anything better than the sound of church bells ringing in a cobblestone piazza while the scent of basil and freshly baked pizza wafts through the air? We kicked off our summer with that epic pasta-making class in Calabria—yes, with an amazing chef that with a strong Italian accent perfectly communicated everything you need to know with a smile and a wave of her hand.
Italian summers are pure magic. And the food? Let’s talk about it. Italy is known for its festivals like Ferragosto in mid-August, when the entire country seems to shut down for a long weekend of feasting, fireworks, and family time. During Ferragosto, locals gorge on summertime staples like prosciutto e melone, grilled seafood, and endless scoops of gelato. Want to take your meal up a notch? Pair that seafood pasta with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Vermentino—white wines that are as refreshing as a dip in the Mediterranean. Fun fact: Did you know Italy is home to over 350 grape varieties? You could drink a different wine every day for a year and still not try them all!
Greece: Mythical Summers on Sun-kissed Islands
Next stop on our whirlwind summer tour: Greece. Oh, Greece. Home of ancient myths, crystal-clear waters, and, let’s be honest, some of the best food in the world. Remember those long days lounging on the beach in Santorini or Mykonos, punctuated only by the sound of waves and the occasional clink of glasses during sunset? Greek summers feel like living in a postcard.
Greek islands are famous for their summer festivals, like the Panagia celebrations in mid-August, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. These events involve a lot of dancing, singing, and (naturally) eating! Picture this: platters of souvlaki, spanakopita, and fresh seafood sizzling on the grill. What pairs perfectly with a platter of grilled octopus? A crisp glass of Moschofilero, of course—a local white wine known for its floral and citrus notes, born from the volcanic soils of Santorini. Fun fact: The Greeks have been making wine for over 6,500 years, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Talk about heritage!
Spain: Fiesta, Flamenco, and Sangria
Oh, Spain! The land of vibrant fiestas, soulful flamenco, and warm evenings that stretch long into the night. Summer in Spain is all about celebration, especially with iconic festivals like La Tomatina in Buñol and Feria de Agosto in Málaga. But Spain in the summer isn’t just about wild parties; it’s about savouring life at a slower pace. Imagine spending lazy afternoons hopping from tapas bar to tapas bar in Seville, nibbling on jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and octopus salad. The best part? You can wash it all down with a chilled glass of tinto de verano—a simple yet delightful mix of red wine and lemon soda, perfect for beating the heat.
If you’re after something a little more upscale, reach for a bottle of Cava, Spain’s answer to Champagne. Crisp, refreshing, and a great match for everything from seafood paella to creamy Manchego cheese. And let’s not forget Sangria, the ultimate summer cocktail. Whether made with red wine or sparkling Cava, it’s the perfect drink to sip while soaking in the vibrant Spanish atmosphere.
Portugal: Golden Beaches and Fresh Seafood by the Atlantic
Portugal may be small, but its summer vibes are nothing short of grand. The Algarve’s golden beaches are legendary, but the entire country buzzes with energy during summer. You’ve got the Festas dos Santos Populares in Lisbon, where streets are draped in colorful streamers, and grilled sardines are served by the dozen. Up in Porto, wine lovers flock to the Douro Valley for wine tours, tasting Portugal’s iconic Port wines.
Portugal’s seafood is second to none, with dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), ameijoas à bulhão pato (garlic clams), and arroz de marisco (seafood rice) stealing the show. And wine pairings? Portugal has you covered with crisp Vinho Verde, a refreshing and slightly effervescent wine that’s perfect for a hot summer day. Fun fact: Portugal has some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. In fact, the Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its historic wine culture. So, while you’re soaking in the sun and indulging in seafood, you’re also sipping a piece of history. Pretty cool, right?
Summer in the USA: Barbecues, Beach Days, and Backyard Fun
Of course, we can’t talk about summer without giving a shout-out to the USA. Summertime in the States means barbecues, beach trips, and endless backyard hangouts with family and friends. Think sizzling burgers, smoky ribs, corn on the cob, and watermelon slices for dessert. In New England, it’s all about lobster rolls and clam bakes by the beach, while the West Coast brings farm-fresh produce and rosé-all-day vibes to the party. And let’s not forget the South—where summer barbecues are practically an art form.
Pairings? A Zinfandel or Syrah is perfect for smoky barbecue meats, while Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc shine with seafood dishes. And what would an American summer be without a cold beer or a pitcher of homemade lemonade? But if wine’s more your thing, you can’t go wrong with a chilled glass of Rosé from California or a zesty Sauvignon Blanc from Washington State.
Wrapping Up the Summer with Wine, Food, and Friends
And just like that, another summer full of sun-drenched memories, delicious bites, and perfectly paired wines comes to a close. Whether it was eating pasta in Italy, sipping wine in Croatia, or just enjoying a quiet sunset on the balcony with a glass of rosé, this was a summer to remember.
As we bid farewell to these warm days and look ahead to fall, let’s not forget to raise a glass to the joy of travel, the delight of summer foods, and the incredible moments we’ve shared along the way. Cheers to a summer well spent, and here’s to many more adventures to come!
This summer may be ending, but the memories will linger—and who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll be raising a glass of rosé on a beach somewhere else entirely! Until then, let’s savor these last few drops of summer in style.