Article By Nanette Wiser
Sea Salt sommelier Jaqueline Eash knows a thing or two about elegant quaffs. She’s in demand, from Naples Wine Auction to an upcoming event in Oregon this summer. Hoping happy hour at Sea Salt St. Pete picks up later this spring so we can dabble in her suggestions.
Here is what she recommends as the season warms and blooms:
1) Bubbles, of course. I like Cava in place of Champagne. Cava is a much more approachable price point if you like to drink sparkling wine as an everyday wine. Not to mention it’s delicious.
TRY: Kila, Cava, Brut, or Pere Ventura, Rose
2) Sauvignon Blanc. France, New Zealand, California, or beyond. This is such a versatile grape that drinks beautifully in the summer swealter. Pair it up with a crisp cool salad with a zingy vinaigrette or a lively Ceviche.
TRY: Alphonse Mellot, La Moussiere, Sancerre, or Lail, Sauvignon Blanc
3) Portuguese Vihno Verde/Green Wine. This is one of my favorite Florida Patio Pounders. It’s crisp, light, slightly effervescent, lower in alcohol, about 10-11%, & super affordable. Chill it up & drink it down. Fair warning, it goes down way too easy so, buy at least 3 bottles if you want to share with a friend.
TRY: Casal Garcia, or Gazela