Summer’s almost over and we all have one last ‘official’ barbecue in our future – Labor Day Weekend!

Here are five wines to uncork during your holiday celebrations that are easily found at your local wine shop and are certain to please your guests:

• 2012 Herdade do Esporão Monte Velho Red ($10): Berry fruit aromas with some faint toasty notes. Elegant palate with great fruit and a fine tannins.
• 2012 Graffigna Centenario Elevation Red Blend ($10): jammy stone fruit flavors mixing with dark berry and cherry ones. Slightly tannic on the finish with ripe, dark fruit that lingers on the palate.
• La Marca Di Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco ($12): light and crisp sparkling wine that offers a dry, citrusy and fresh finish. Perfect to serve as an aperitif as your guests arrive.
• 2010 Clone 5 Pinot Noir ($20): nice and bright cherry aromas jumping out of the glass. Cherry continues on the palate but with raspberry and even strawberry the a little pepper on the finish.
• 2011 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Zinfandel ($30): noseful of dried herbs and dark berry with classic blackberry and stone fruit on the palate. Smooth finish with a hint of oak.      

Enjoy the end of the summer with these wines!

Cheers,

Veronique