Best French Wines for Summer

Sophistication, refreshment, and good vibes in every glass

French wines carry the sun‑drenched spirit of summer—and with the right selections, your Sip LA lineup will feel luxe yet accessible, classic yet contemporary. Here are the best French wines to serve when the season heats up.

Provence Rosé – Light, crisp, endlessly refreshing

Provence rosés are iconic for summer: pale salmon hues, bright strawberry and citrus notes, and a delicate herbal edge. Think Whispering Angel by Château d’Esclans—the benchmark of accessible rosé elegance

Also consider producers from Bandol or Tavel for deeper, structured rosés with a hint of body and complexity.

Pair With: Grilled seafood, cherry tomato salad, aged goat cheese, or a chilled platter of olives and melon.

Chilled Reds – Beaujolais and Loire light reds

For lovers of reds who want to feel cool, try lightly chilled French reds. Gamay from Beaujolais or Loire reds offer bright strawberry and red berry flavors with low tannin and refreshing energy.

These are perfect for LA’s warm evenings when big reds feel heavy.

Pair With: Chicken skewers, sausages, grilled bell peppers, or a charcuterie board with fresh fruit.

Crisp Whites – Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre & Muscadet

French whites bring clean acidity, lemony brightness, and mineral freshness. Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé (Loire) are Sauvignon Blanc classics—zesty gooseberry, grapefruit, and that signature silex smokiness.

Muscadet, with its lean, saline profile, is ideal with shellfish or ceviche. Chablis (Chardonnay) offers a steely, flinty expression that feels refreshing under the sun.

Pair With: Oysters, ceviche, grilled squash, or creamy goat cheese.

Crémant & Sparkling – French bubbles for every moment

Crémant is France’s value‑champagne: made in the traditional method with lively bubbles and refined texture but friendlier price tags. It’s perfect for brunch, celebrations, or simply adding sparkle to the day.

And if you're looking for something fun and bolder, Luc Belaire Rosé—made from Provençal-style Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault—is sleek, stylish, and Instagram‑ready 

Pair With: Sushi, fried chicken, salty snacks, or summer fruit tarts.

Sip LA Summer Tips

• Keep rosés and blancs chilled (45–50°F) to highlight their refreshing fruit and acidity.
• Light reds like Beaujolais are best slightly cool (55–60°F) to preserve their vibrancy.
• Sparkling wines should stay cold and known well ahead of serving—they’re great palate cleansers during the midday sun.

Summing Up: Your French Summer Lineup