July in the UK means one thing; summer is in full swing. Whether that means garden gatherings, long sunlit evenings or tuning into the centre court with friends and family, now is the time to refresh your drinks selection with something seasonal, stylish and satisfying.
At Wine Rack, we believe every summer moment deserves a perfect serve. From effervescent spritzes and chilled wines to cracking beers and creative cocktails, we’ve curated a collection to suit your alfresco plans and celebratory sips. So grab your sunhat, prep the picnic table, and let’s serve summer right.
Centre Court Sips: Wimbledon & Refreshing Tradition
It’s not just tennis that takes centre stage this month, it’s also the chance to gather, graze and raise a glass. Whether you’re hosting a viewing party or simply soaking up the sunshine, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a classic British serve.
Pimm’s: The Quintessential Summer Pour
No summer sport session is complete without a jug of Pimm’s. This iconic British liqueur has been delighting garden party-goers since 1823. Traditionally served with lemonade, sliced strawberries, cucumber and mint, Pimm’s is refreshingly sweet, subtly spiced, and endlessly customisable. For a twist, try using ginger ale, or mix with prosecco and soda for a sparkling upgrade.
Perfect Pairing: Pair your Pimm’s with cucumber sandwiches, sausage rolls or a fresh strawberry tart for the ultimate garden spread.
Aperol – Spritz Your Way to Sunset
While we Brits love tradition, we also embrace a bit of continental flair. Enter the Aperol Spritz; a vibrant orange cocktail that’s become the unofficial drink of summer. With its bittersweet citrus profile and eye-catching hue, it’s ideal for relaxed lunches or aperitivo hour on the patio.
To make your perfect serve:
Combine 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol and 1 part soda over ice, and garnish with an orange slice. Simple, stunning and seriously refreshing.
Perfect Serves for Summer Evenings
There’s something undeniably magical about the light stretching into the late hours. Whether it’s a lazy midweek dinner in the garden or a spontaneous catch-up with friends, these warm evenings call for drinks that feel just as effortless.
Luxardo Limoncello: Sweet, Sharp and Sunshine-Ready
Made using the zest of Italian lemons, Luxardo Limoncello is a taste of the Amalfi Coast in a bottle. Best served chilled, it’s delicious on its own, but equally brilliant in cocktails or even desserts. For a spritzy twist, pour over ice and top with prosecco and soda water. Or drizzle over lemon sorbet for a grown-up treat that cools and zings.
Dinner Idea: Limoncello pairs beautifully with seafood, creamy pasta dishes or anything with fresh herbs like basil and mint.
Beer & BBQs
For many of us, summer weekends mean one thing: firing up the barbecue. A cold beer in hand, the sizzle of the grill, and great company; it’s a trio that never fails.
Peroni Nastro Azzurro
Light, crisp and slightly citrusy, Peroni is the perfect refreshment when the sun is high. Its clean profile makes it a versatile food partner, especially with Italian-style BBQ: think lemon chicken skewers, herby flatbreads or grilled courgettes with parmesan shavings.
Madri
Golden and slightly malty, Madri is quickly becoming a modern favourite. This Spanish lager has a smoothness that suits easy-going afternoons; especially when paired with spicy wings, patatas bravas or smoky grilled chorizo.
Staropramen
Richer and fuller-bodied, Staropramen is great when you want something with depth. Think flame-grilled burgers, pulled pork or a roasted veggie kebab. And with its generous 440ml cans, it’s ideal for sharing round the picnic table.
Wine to Dine With: Sophisticated Sips and Summer Meals
As the nights grow warmer, meals become more about sharing, savouring and celebrating. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch with friends or going all-out with an alfresco feast, here are a few wines that are guaranteed to impress.
This Chilean white is zesty, crisp and brimming with citrus and gooseberry flavours; just what you want with grilled prawns, goats’ cheese salads or asparagus dishes.
For those cooler summer nights, this refined red Burgundy is a treat. Elegant, silky and layered with red fruits, it’s made for mushroom risottos, roast chicken or beef carpaccio.
A bottle that’s made for occasions. With its delicate pink hue and berry-forward profile, this Champagne is both elegant and approachable. Serve chilled with smoked salmon blinis, creamy cheeses or even strawberries and cream.
Zero sugar is added to this sharp, refreshing Champagne, making it bone-dry but beautifully balanced. Serve with oysters, sashimi or grilled white fish for a match made in culinary heaven.
A Toast to Alfresco Moments
Summer is more than a season, it’s a state of mind. As we roll into longer days and laid-back nights, it’s time to lean into outdoor living. Bring out the good glasses, fire up the barbecue, and let every sip feel like a celebration.
With cold-ready products, ready-to-drink cans and exciting new arrivals, Wine Rack makes it easy to entertain, unwind or simply enjoy a beautiful drink whenever the mood strikes.
Whether you’re raising a glass to a championship win, clinking bottles over grilled skewers or simply toasting another sunny day, you’ll find everything you need in store.
Visit Us In Store
Pop into your local Wine Rack for a closer look at our seasonal specials. We’ve got cold beers, pre-mixed cocktails, food-friendly wines and gifting ideas ready to go. Use our store locator to find your nearest shop, and don’t forget to check out our latest offers online.
Discover more with Wine Rack. Cheers!