A taste of Summer

Well that was a warm one! Not sure being stood in a cricket field all weekend was my best

idea, but it certainly made a well-deserved pint afterwards taste just that bit better and it was all worth it in the end.

With warmer weather finally starting to arrive, this is the point in the year where wine lists naturally begin to shift as we look forward to a long hot summer (we can all dream right?)

Guests start drinking differently as the seasons change. Lighter styles become more appealing, rosé sales begin to climb, sparkling becomes more visible, and there’s often more interest in fresher, more vibrant styles that work well outdoors, with lighter dishes, or simply as an easy glass in the sunshine.

For many venues, this is a great time to re-energise the wine offer with a few seasonal additions and a stronger by-the-glass selection. A standout rosé, a crisp aromatic white, or even a lightly chilled red can make a real impact and encourage guests to move beyond the usual choices and enjoy something different.

We’re also seeing more customers having success with slightly more interesting wines by the glass. Not necessarily anything overly niche or difficult, but wines with a bit more personality and individuality. These are often the bottles that create conversation at the table and give the overall  list more confidence and character.

The by-the-glass section is increasingly where guests make their decisions, so keeping this part of the list fresh and engaging can make a significant difference over the summer months.

Alongside the wines themselves, team confidence remains hugely important. Guests are far more likely to try something new when it’s recommended with confidence and enthusiasm. Even a short tasting session or a simple guide to the list can make a noticeable difference in helping teams feel comfortable talking about the wines and making recommendations.

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