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From Sicilyto New York 8winestotryin August

From Sicily to New York: 8 Wines to Try in August

As summer winds down and August brings its mix of lingering heat and hints of autumn, wine enthusiasts have a perfect opportunity to explore bottles that capture the essence of the season. Whether you're lounging on a patio, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply unwinding after a long day, the right wine can elevate any moment. This month, we're journeying from the sun-drenched vineyards of Sicily to the cool-climate estates of New York, highlighting eight standout wines that offer a diverse range of flavors, styles, and stories. These selections span crisp whites, vibrant rosés, bold reds, and even a sparkling option, each chosen for their approachability, quality, and ability to pair with August's fresh produce, grilled meats, and lighter fare. Drawing from regions known for their unique terroirs and innovative winemaking, these bottles invite you to savor the global tapestry of wine while supporting sustainable practices and small producers.

Starting our tour in Sicily, the island's volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate produce wines with intense minerality and bright acidity. A top pick is the 2022 Planeta Etna Bianco from the slopes of Mount Etna. Made primarily from Carricante grapes, this white wine bursts with notes of citrus zest, green apple, and a subtle saline edge, reminiscent of the sea breezes that sweep the vineyards. It's an ideal match for seafood dishes like grilled prawns or a simple caprese salad, cutting through the richness with its refreshing profile. Planeta, a family-owned winery committed to biodiversity, crafts this wine with minimal intervention, allowing the volcanic terroir to shine. At around $25, it's an accessible entry into Sicilian whites, perfect for August evenings when you crave something light yet complex.

Staying in Italy but shifting to the northeastern region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the 2023 Jermann Vintage Tunina stands out as a white blend that's both elegant and intriguing. Composed of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Ribolla Gialla, Malvasia, and Picolit, this wine offers a symphony of aromas—think ripe pear, jasmine, and a touch of honeyed almond. On the palate, it's full-bodied with a creamy texture balanced by lively acidity, making it versatile for pairing with creamy cheeses, herb-roasted chicken, or even spicy Asian-inspired dishes. Jermann's innovative approach, blending international and indigenous varieties, has earned this wine cult status. Priced at about $60, it's a splurge-worthy choice for those looking to impress at a summer gathering, embodying the fusion of tradition and modernity in Italian winemaking.

Venturing across the Atlantic to New York's Finger Lakes region, known for its cool-climate viticulture, the 2021 Hermann J. Wiemer Dry Riesling exemplifies why this area is a rising star in American wine. With flavors of lime, white peach, and wet stone, this Riesling is bone-dry and laser-focused, avoiding the sweetness often associated with the grape. The Finger Lakes' glacial soils impart a distinctive minerality, and Wiemer's sustainable farming practices ensure purity in every sip. Pair it with fresh oysters, sushi, or a vegetable stir-fry for a refreshing August meal. At $20, it's a budget-friendly gem that showcases New York's prowess in producing world-class whites.

For rosé lovers, the 2023 Bedell Cellars Rosé from Long Island, New York, brings a taste of the Hamptons to your table. Crafted from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this pale pink wine delights with strawberry, watermelon, and floral notes, backed by crisp acidity. It's bone-dry and elegant, ideal for sipping on its own or alongside salads, grilled fish, or charcuterie boards. Bedell's commitment to organic farming and low-intervention winemaking highlights the region's maritime influence, resulting in a wine that's both sophisticated and summery. Around $18, it's an easy pick for casual August afternoons.

Heading back to Europe, the 2022 Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé from Provence, France, offers a more structured take on the style. Made predominantly from Mourvèdre with Grenache and Cinsault, it features complex layers of red berries, citrus peel, and herbs de Provence, with a savory, almost saline finish. This rosé ages beautifully, gaining depth over time, and pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean cuisine like ratatouille or bouillabaisse. Tempier's historic vineyards, farmed organically, produce wines that capture the essence of the Bandol appellation. At $40, it's a premium option that rewards those seeking substance in their summer pinks.

For red wine aficionados, the 2020 Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso from Sicily delivers volcanic intensity in a elegant package. Primarily Nerello Mascalese with a touch of Nerello Cappuccio, it evokes cherries, rose petals, and earthy smoke, with fine tannins and bright acidity. It's like a lighter version of Burgundy, perfect for August's transitional weather—pair it with grilled lamb, eggplant parmigiana, or mushroom risotto. The winery's high-altitude vineyards on Etna yield wines of remarkable finesse, emphasizing organic methods. Priced at $30, it's a gateway to Sicily's red wine renaissance.

From Spain's Rioja region, the 2018 R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Reserva brings old-world charm with its Tempranillo-led blend, aged extensively in oak for a profile of dried fruit, leather, vanilla, and spice. This red is silky and evolved, ideal for savoring with hearty dishes like paella or aged cheeses as evenings cool. López de Heredia's traditional, patient approach results in timeless wines. At $45, it's a value for such pedigree.

Finally, for a bubbly finish, the NV Raventós i Blanc De Nit Rosé from Catalonia, Spain, sparkles with Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Parellada, and Monastrell. Notes of red currant, brioche, and minerality make it festive yet refined, great for toasting August sunsets or pairing with tapas. Raventós' biodynamic practices shine through in this elegant cava alternative, priced at $25.

These eight wines—from Sicily's volcanic whites and reds to New York's crisp Rieslings and Long Island rosés—offer a world tour in a glass, encouraging exploration and enjoyment this August. Each bottle tells a story of place, passion, and craftsmanship, inviting you to discover new favorites while celebrating the season's bounty. Whether you're a novice or a connoisseur, these selections promise to enhance your summer sipping with their diversity and delight. (Word count: 912)

Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/08/from-sicily-to-new-york-8-wines-to-try-in-august.html ]