Hello August! And hello, heat! Temperatures are rising, along with humidity, as sunshine-filled days linger well into the evening. So take a break and cool off with a refreshing white wine from vineyards dotted throughout the world. Here are a few ideas.

Nestled in the foothills of Italy’s Dolomite Mountains, the Italian region of Alto Adige produces some of the finest white wines in the country filled with vibrancy, acidity, and freshness while always maintaining balance. A crossing of Riesling and Trollinger, Kerner shines from the area, especially from Abbazia di Novacella. Sitting at elevations ranging from 1950 – 2950 feet above sea level, the vineyards of Abbazia di Novacella are situated ideally to craft wines with mouth-watering acidity that pair perfectly with the hearty fare of the German-influenced region. The Augustinian Canons Regular monastery of Neustift has been producing wine for over 800 years, dedicated to showcasing the elegance of each variety produced with approachability. Abbazia di Novacella Kerner ($20) opens with ripe stone fruit, peaches, nectarines, and apricots, followed by subtle notes of smoke, crushed stone, soft herb, and eucalyptus, with a lingering, luscious finish.

From Spain’s “Valley of Gold” inland from the Atlantic Ocean above the Sil River in Galicia, Valdeorras shines as a leading producer of the zesty, textured, well-rounded Godello. Bodegas Avancia showcases the variety grown in organically farmed, slate-filled soils, benefiting from high elevations to cool grapes at night, locking in acidity, and hot Spanish days from the start of summer to harvest ripening the golden fruit to perfection. Avancia Cuvee de O Godello ($17) opens with floral aromas of lemon blossom and honeysuckle followed by golden apple, juicy citrus, almond, and fresh cream enhanced by a bit of sur lie (on the yeasts) aging in large barrels, giving texture to the balanced wine.

From the arid countryside of Alentejo, Porgula, Heredad Esporao Reserva White ($20) blends classic Portuguese white varieties like Antão Vaz, Arinto, and Roupeiro that thrive throughout the country. From organically farmed vineyards, this, the first white wine produced by the esteemed producer since its start in 1985, continues to showcase the dedication to premium quality Esporao puts into each of their wines. Hand-harvested fruit is picked early in the morning to ensure freshness if maintained, vinified, and aged on the lees for six months, giving texture and creaminess to the wine. Bright and fresh, the selection showcases ripe grapefruit, pear, white peach, and lychee, with a focused line of minerality from start to finish.

Summer season remains Rosé season, and the mineral-driven wines of Sicily showcase the style beautifully delivering wines filled with authenticity and character (along with great values.) Located just outside Palermo in Casteldaccia the Contrada Corvo vineyards have been in production since 1824. Today these vineyards continue to showcase the distinct character of the volcanic island. Produced from predominantly Nero d’Avola as well as other native varieties, Corvo Rosé ($10) is zesty and bright, showing layers of wild strawberry, tangerine, soft herb, and a touch of the briny salinity so many wines of the region have and shine with. A great wine to toast sunset! #cheers