While the kids may be heading back to school, summer’s not over yet! Make the most of the cooler evening weather and plan an outdoor get-together with good friends and our latest wines of the month. With fresh and spicy flavors, a 91-point wine and a California State Fair winner, there’s something for everyone.

Balverne Sauvignon Blanc: This small estate winery located in Windsor, California, recently took home the 2017 California State Fair “Best Micro Winery White Wine” award for their sauvignon blanc. Russian River Valley grapes are hand-harvested at night to optimize their fresh fruit aromas and flavors. Jasmine and grapefruit dominate the nose while the palate is more tropical with guava and citrus fruits.

A to Z Rosé: Although this winery has only been in existence since 2002, they have charged to the top of the pack of Oregon wine producers, and are a Certified B Corporation. This beautiful red rose-colored wine bursts with notes of strawberry, hibiscus and watermelon, while bright red berry fruits like cranberry and cherry round out this creamy textured wine. This late summer sipper makes for a perfect picnic wine and is best enjoyed slightly chilled.

Chacewater Malbec: This small, family-owned winery is located in the Lake County town of Kelseyville, California. With organic farming practices, a love for land and great vineyard sites, this is a winery to keep your eyes on. Their 2013 Malbec was voted “Best Malbec” in the state at the 2017 California State Fair wine competition. A little spicy French oak frames the blueberry, currant and fig flavors nicely.

Gérard Bertrand Fitou: This Grenache and Carignan red blend from the small region of Fitou in the southeast of France is a terrific introduction to wines of the Mediterranean coast. In the 2011 (rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast), ripe red jammy fruits exude from the glass and carry through the palate of this lush, full-bodied wine. Silky tannins create a long enjoyable finish.