How-to: Enjoy Red Wine in Summer

Even the most stubborn fan of red wine might hesitate before uncorking their favorite bottle during the hot summer months. Tina was reminded recently that, even in hot weather, you can -- and should! -- enjoy a glass of your favorite red wine. The trick? Chill it first.

Remember: all wine is meant to be served at 55 degrees. So, pop that bottle in your refrigerator for 15 minutes or so, then enjoy. Just be careful not to let it get too cold. It will still be refreshing, but you might miss out on some of the more complex flavors which get lost when a wine is served too cold. (The same holds true for white wine). So, consider saving that expensive bottle for when the weather is more conducive to red wine drinking, and opt for something a little less expensive for the summer months.

After all, summer is the time of year that we tend to give our palates a break. We opt for lighter flavors and lighter portions. So consider doing the same when selecting your wine--but don't give up on red wine entirely in the muggy summer months.