Summer Sippers with SML Fine Wines

The warm weather months tend to find wine lovers abandoning their rich, oak-y reds in favor of lighter varietals, chillable crowd pleasers, and festive bubbles. Thankfully, SML Fine Wines located in Westlake (across the street from Kroger) has you covered for all three!

When you walk into the shop over the next several weeks, head straight to the central pillar display where owner Ryan McFeely has curated a “Dock Ready” collection, full of options for every occasion and taste on your guest list.

The offerings include bottles of crisp whites, delightful roses, and chillable reds - some with Stelvin closures (screw top) which makes them especially on-water friendly. Can we just take a moment here to dispel the myth that wine from a can is an inferior product? A local favorite (Paul D's Gruner Veltliner) just so happens to be available in bottle OR can form to pack-and-go with ease. And one of my personal favorites is the canned Castoro Sparkling Rose', which, I admit, I'm hesitant to tell you about for fear that you'll run and hoard all the stock of my must-have boating wine! Ha!

If you love the idea of a fresh summer spritzer, but don't love the fake flavorings and sickly-sweet aftertaste they often leave behind, check out the Inversa Italian Prosecco Spritz family which includes:

Peach Basil

Morello Cherry

and

Sicilian Lemon Bergamot

Not only will one sip transport you instantly to the Mediterranean, but I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the sustainably harvested fruit and herb infused combos that boast no added sugar.

The perfect party pitcher option comes in the form of Galea's Sangria Bottles. Produced in Spain using organic wine and fruit, these fresh, lightly fizzy, harbingers of carefree summertime gatherings require simply popping the (reclosable) top and serving over ice. If you want to level up your fancy, here are some easy garnishing suggestions for their three flavors:

White: Berries, Slices of Lime, Fresh Mint

Rose': Strawberries and Lemon Twists

Red: Orange Slices and Fresh Basil

I'd be remiss if I didn't also mention a new line of pretzels that are now being carried at the shop. Pop Daddy has three gourmet flavors that absolutely blew. me. away. Smoked Gouda was my standout…I'm still dreaming about it (but can't have more than a taste b/c they're not gluten free). Then they have Yellow Mustard which instantly called to mind (taste?) state fairs, nights at the ballpark, cookouts by the pool…all things nostalgic summer. For you spicy folks, try the Hot Sauce flavor for a snack and/or accompaniment with a kick. Grab a bag or two next time you're in the shop for some incredibly satisfying snackage. Oh, and don't forget the seasonal key lime cookies when you need a quick and easy sweet treat to top off your meal.

To order a large quantity for an upcoming party or company, please get your orders to Ryan by Tuesdays (wine) or Wednesdays (Galea or Inversa) for pick up that Friday.

Summer hours are:

Tuesday-Thursday 11am-5pm

Friday 11am-7pm

Saturday 11am-4pm

Sunday 11am-2pm

Closed Monday