Three Crisp American Whites for the Dog Days of Summer

Last Updated on October 7, 2022 by JaimeSays

I used to enjoy red wine more frequently than white wine, but after taking my WSET Level 1 and 2 tests, I am now an equal opportunist. For the first time in my adult life, I have a furnished outdoor space, and it is divine. I have a spot to drink my morning coffee and watch the birds, and a lovely spot for a nightcap. With the long days and high heat, I’ve been cracking into my supply of crisp whites. Served best well chilled, these are three great options to have alone or with a summer meal. All of the wines featured in this post were generously provided by the winemakers.

Big Max Sauvignon Blanc (2017)

Average Retail Price: $24.99

The first white wine that I ever enjoyed drinking was Sauvignon Blanc. Dry and crisp with refreshing acidity, it’s the red wine drinker’s white wine. Terlato Wines’ Big Max, a Napa Valley brand named after the lore of a Brown Bear that roamed valley in the 1960’s, beautifully embodies what one has come to expect in California Sauvignon Blancs.

Sight: Clear, pale lemon color with a watery white rim

Aroma: Lemon, Lime pith, green apple, white florals, and cut grass

Taste: Refreshing, long finish, melon, apple and slate

Food Pairing Recommendation: Sesame Chicken

Maybe you are in the mood for some Italian bubbles?

Wine by Joe 2017 Pinot Gris

Average Retail Price: $13.99

My instructor for my wine certification classes didn’t have much praise for Pinot Gris. A medium-bodied, medium-acidity, medium-alcohol white wine that is known as Pinot Grigio in Italy, Pinot Gris can get a bad rap for its arguable neutrality. Introduced to Oregon in 1966, this grape flourishes in the various wine regions of the state.

That is certainly the case with Dobbes Family Estate, Wine by Joe 2017 Pinot Gris. A more wallet-friendly wine than the estate’s namesake wine, Wine by Joe is also available in cans for on-the-go enjoyment.

Sight: Clear, Ruby Colored

Aroma: Cherry, a touch of tomato, and smoke

Taste: Dry with straightforward cherry and some vanilla, quick finish

Food Pairing Recommendation: Orichette with Hot Sausage

Dobbes Crater View Vineyard 2017 Grenache Blanc

Average Retail Price: $26.99

I had never tried a Grenache Blanc wine before I received this sample from Dobbes. A color mutation from the black Grenache varietal, these wines are full bodied and frequently aged in oak to reveal complex flavors.

This particular wine is labeled as under the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), the southernmost growing region of Oregon. Officially an AVA as of 2001, this area of Oregon is the convergence of three mountain ranges and four rivers and tributaries. The diversity of the slopes and valleys allow for many different grape varietals to thrive in the area. 2020 will be the decade mark for Dobbes Family Estate’s Grenache Blanc blend, meaning it would be the perfect time to visit one of the Dobbes tasting rooms.

Sight: Clear, pale lemon, almost watery white

Aromas Stone fruit, candied lemon/lime, melon with a touch of herbaciousness

Taste: Smooth with a soft mouthfeel, medium finish of orchard fruit, melon, and citrus

Food Pairing Recommendation: Seared Ahi Tuna