It’s tough for us to take pleasure in a merlot right now of the year unless we remain in air-conditioned areas. Besides grilling steaks, our summer season fare often tends to have more fish and shellfish or even simply a salad. It’s a far better time for chilled white wines. The fresh acidity of sauvignon blanc, for instance, cools the palate and makes a good aperitif. Fruits, veggies and smoked hen with citrus sauces are perfect food to pair with sauvignon blanc.