Picking the Perfect Picnic Wine

Well, we’re coming to the end of picnic month here at Oregano. But that doesn’t mean that picnicking season is over – oh no – it is just beginning. Two weeks’ ago we talked to Dawn from TheSampler – a fabulous Islington wine merchant and our top choice for your alcoholic al fresco beverages. This week, we’ll be sharing Dawn’s picks for the perfect picnic wine to go with your pizza. Commence drooling…now!

1) “Passitivo” – Primitivo, Puglia, 2013

Dawn’s first choice comes - very aptly - from the same place as owner Stefano! One of Puglia’s greatest wines, Primitivo is produced using a rare winemaking technique called ‘il giro del picciolo’ which involves twisting the grape bunch stems so that no further nourishment reaches the grapes about days before picking. This causes the grapes to dry out naturally on the vine, thus concentrating the flavours. This Primitivo is a full-bodied, smooth red with an intense plum and blackcurrant nose, perfect for when you’re getting closer to nature!

2) “E Solo” – Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, 2013

A great Italian favourite, you can’t beat a good Montepulciano. The area from which this wine comes is famous for making delicious food-friendly wines and this one is no different! With flavours of cherry, blackcurrant, and plum, this easy-drinker is perfect with a plate of pasta…or a pizza!

3)“Saint Pierre Rosé Tradition” – Provence, 2014

Coming from a château which has been around since 11th century, the wine-makers from this country estate have had plenty of time to perfect this stunning Provence rosé. Pale pink, with hints of spice and white peach, and stronger strains of tropical fruits, we’d say this is your perfect summer wine, right here!

4)"Artuke Pies Negros” – Rioja, 2013

This dark, fruity Rioja from boutique producer Artuke, may seem a little heavy for a warm day, with its dark fruits, cherries, and cocoa, but this wine pairs beautifully with cheeses and cold or roasted meats, making it perfect for a picnic or BBQ.

5) "The Matador” - Garnacha, 2013 

With notes of strawberries, cherries, and raspberries, this flavoursome Spanish red packs a real palate punch, the perfect pairing for your pizza picnic. 

6)"Badoz Benoit” – Cremant du Jura Brut

And we couldn’t have a picnic wine list without including a little sparkle! This fabulous Cremant du Jura Blanc Brut is elegant and balanced, with fine bubbles, and light citrus notes – well-suited to toasting the summer season.

To buy any of these, or other perfect picnic wines – head to The Sampler on Islington’s Upper Street. And don’t forget a little food to go with your booze! Pop along to see us at Pizzeria Oregano and we’ll fix you up your perfect Italian picnic to take to one of Islington’s finest al fresco spots! Picnic perfection.