Now that we’ve skipped spring and gone straight to summer in Jozi, we can get busy planning our favourite warm-weather pastime: Outdoor drinking. There’s nothing better than picnicking, hiking or lounging on the beach and taking time to enjoy the summer sun with a great bottle of wine to brighten the occasion. Here’s what we recommend you sip all summer long and pair with seasonal foods.

Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne Sakura Edition Réserve Exclusive Rosé

What to expect: A lively and refreshing burst of red summer fruits. This rosé champagne is made in a brut style and is composed of 45% pinot noir for roundness and structure, 45% meunier for fruitiness and soft, supple character, and 10% chardonnay for elegance and finesse.

Pair it with: Any Japanese dishes, from sushi and miso soup to tempura and udon.

Around R780 from select bottle stores

Robertson Winery Sparkling Brut Rosé

What to expect: A gorgeous strawberry blush, enticing floral and candied fruit aromas that captivate the senses, juicy wild strawberry flavours that linger with each sip, and a fine lively mousse and generous aftertaste. It’s refreshingly fun, decidedly fruity and very easy to love.

Pair it with: Smoked salmon and chocolate and raspberries. Or (better yet) chocolate-covered berries.

Between R60 and R65 from any bottle store

Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2017

What to expect: A combo of Cape gooseberries, white grapefruit and a hint of fynbos. The rich and textured palate is focused with a steely minerality and fresh, vibrant acidity. On the nose it’s generously aromatic with a racy, fruit focused freshness.

Pair it with: Barely seasoned ingredients such as raw and lightly cooked shellfish like oysters, shell-on prawns and fresh crab.

R99 from www.bottleshop.co.za