Summer is at its peak, with most people on vacation or preparing to leave. This time of year makes enjoying a wine more difficult, as on the one hand the morning-noon-evening temperatures are above – and sometimes well above – 30°C, and on the other hand our daily lives take on a more sloppy and relaxed pace. But that doesn’t mean we should put aside our favourite wine. On the contrary, all we need to do is follow the steps below and we’re sure to enjoy a bottle to the same extent that we do at the more “serious” times of the year.

1. Go low on alcohol
Too much heat and heavy alcohol don’t mix well, so now’s not the best time to pour your favorite 15% powerhouse into a glass. Instead, pick lighter wines from cooler regions, aiming for bottles that stay under 13% alcohol.

2. Don’t skip 0%!
Okay, serious wine lovers tend to turn their noses up at alcohol-free wines, but honestly, they’ve improved massively. Sure, they might have a slightly “fake” aroma, but they’re getting close to the real deal—and on a scorching 40°C day, they might even beat it.

3. Whites vs Reds: score 1-0
White wines are more linked to summer because their crispness and lack of tannins make them way more refreshing in the heat compared to reds. Plus, they love to be served chilled, which gives them the edge.

4. Hardcore red fans? Don’t lose hope
If you love red more than an Olympiakos fan loves their team—or a diehard KKE supporter their party—don’t despair. Stick to fruity, soft cuvées (like a fresh tank red) or lighter-bodied, gentle-tannin varieties like Limnio or Pinot Noir.

5. Fatty food lovers, you’re not left out
If your diet revolves around lamb and fatty cuts (your version of 4 Season tires), don’t worry. A harsh red can be too much, but an orange wine combines white wine’s freshness with the tannins of a red that help cut through fat. And there’s always those bold rosés…

6. It burns, it burns!
Summer is great for transporting bottles, but the heat inside cars can ruin even the finest wines in no time. So pack ice packs, coolers, and anything to keep them chilled—especially if you’re spending hours in the car.

7. Everything in the fridge
“Room temperature” means a French château room from the 18th century without central heating—not a hot Greek tavern in August! Don’t hesitate to chill your reds. Even if they get too cold, a few minutes in the glass brings them back to the ideal 15-17°C.

8. Served cold? Keep it cold!
Serving wine chilled is half the battle of summer drinking; the other half is keeping it that way. Not as easy as it sounds when it’s boiling outside! So pull out the ice buckets, wine coolers, and don’t pour too much at once—serve smaller amounts more often.

9. Keep it simple!
You’ve got 10 months for serious labels and deep tastings. Take a break during the heatwave and opt for simpler, everyday wines. After all, how else will you appreciate the special ones if you haven’t tried the basics?

10. Moderation
This should be your mantra all year round, but in hot weather it’s even more important. Plus, summer includes swimming, trips, drives—and all those require zero alcohol on the breathalyzer!