Our favorite go-tos

Weekdays are hard enough without the added decision of which wine to pair with dinner. On those busier evenings you want something uncomplicated but delicious that you can drink with anything. For reds that means something warming and familiar with enough lift to elevate what you’ve made for dinner. And for whites you want something balanced and clean that you can sip on while cooking and isn’t going to overshadow your meal.

And don’t forget, bubbles are always an option for everyday drinking (which we always encourage). The New MoRosé Spumante from Poderi Morini is a lovely aperitivo to enjoy throughout dinner as is the Zestos Pét Nat from L’Équilibristes. And there are plenty of skin-contact whites for those of you who enjoy a little orange wine during the week. Wines like Sciccu from Creta Paglia or Tiago Teles’ Raiz are ideal. Perfectly textured and not overly aromatic, they’re the kinds of wines we think of when we want to order sushi.

If you’re more of a white wine lover, you might try some Piedmontese Arneis from Negro Lorenzo. Possibly our favorite white wine ever, it has enough body to stand up to just about anything while remaining fresh and entirely mineral-driven. We like to think it’s where Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc drinkers come together. But if you do enjoy something a little lighter, you should give the Falerio from Carminucci a try. It’s bright, slightly tropical, and an absolute treat to sip on.

Now, when it comes to reds there’s plenty to talk about. Grapes like Pinot Noir are easy go-tos because they tend to have a little more acidity which is perfect for food. The Leah Pinot Noir from Seresin is a fantastic option from New Zealand. Well balanced tannins with notes of clove in the background are endlessly comforting. Blends like the Maître de Chai, Red Table Wine are lovely too because they go with absolutely everything.

For something a little more full bodied, we always recommend a nice Côte du Rhône like the Cypress Cuvée from Kermit Lynch, which reminds us of blackberries and cedar trees. Portugal is another great place to look to for affordable everyday bottles. The Quinta de Saes Tinto is a great wine if you’re roasting a chicken or just snacking on some charcuterie. With notes of wild strawberry and worn leather, it’s the ultimate comfort wine.

Believe it or not, we go through the same struggle when it comes to choosing the perfect weeknight bottle. That’s why we’ve put together a list of everyday staff favorites. Click here for the full list!