Summer, summer, summertime... it's BBQ season y'all! There is truly nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. It's a very underrated wine occasion and when pulled off well, it really helps bring the flavor.

Top 10 wines for a BBQ, here you go:

Red Wines - (if it is hot outside, don't be afraid to chill any of these wines - be bold!)

• Malbec: Malbec is a bold, full-bodied red wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled meats. Its rich flavors of blackberry, plum, and chocolate can stand up to the smokiness of barbecued food.
• Syrah/Shiraz: Syrah/Shiraz is another bold red wine that is perfect for barbecue. It has flavors of black fruit, pepper, and spice that can complement the flavors of grilled meats.
• Zinfandel: Zinfandel is a versatile red wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of barbecue foods. It has flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and spice that can pair well with grilled chicken, pork, or seafood.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic red wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled steak. It has flavors of black fruit, cedar, and tobacco that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.
• Merlot: Merlot is a smooth, medium-bodied red wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled fish or poultry. It has flavors of red fruit, chocolate, and vanilla that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.

White Wines - (Martha Stewart says it's ok to add ice to white wine and who are we to argue with a goddess?)

• Chardonnay: Chardonnay is a versatile white wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of barbecue foods. It has flavors of apple, pear, and citrus that can pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing white wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled seafood or chicken. It has flavors of grapefruit, lemon, and herbs that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.
• Riesling: Riesling is a sweet white wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled pork or poultry. It has flavors of peach, apricot, and honey that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.
• Gewürztraminer: Gewürztraminer is a spicy white wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled meats that have been cooked with strong flavors, such as curry or barbecue sauce. It has flavors of lychee, rose, and ginger that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.

Sparkling Wines - (Celebrate good times, come on!)

• Champagne: Champagne is a classic sparkling wine that is perfect for any occasion, including a barbecue. It has flavors of apple, pear, and citrus that can complement a variety of barbecue foods.
• Prosecco: Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine that is perfect for pairing with light fare, such as grilled seafood or chicken. It has flavors of pear, apple, and citrus that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.
• Cava: Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine that is perfect for pairing with grilled meats. It has flavors of apple, pear, and citrus that can complement the flavors of grilled meat.

No matter what type of barbecue food you're serving, it's also perfectly ok to drink what you like, but do make sure to share it with friends!

Glasses up!