Even if you generally go for red wines the rest of the year, summer begs for a few bottles of refreshing whites or rosés. Those with floral and fruity aromas and light body are best for sipping during the afternoon and early evening gatherings; they also go well with lighter meals. Serve them chilled to around 45-50 degrees, down to 40 for sparklers. Save the fruity reds for serving with meaty grilled fare later in the evening as the sun loses its force, and save the buttery Chardonnays for fall and winter.

Whether you like your wine dry or lightly sweet, a good summer sipper depends on the zing of bright acidity, which quenches thirst like lemonade under a shady tree. Crisp acidity also brings out a wine's other flavors, and acidity helps revive your appetite, too. Surprisingly, a tiny twist of bitterness (sometimes found in Gewürztraminer and Italian white wines like Inzolia) can make for a bright finish as well. And just as in beer and soda, bubbles in wine feel cool and refreshing. Look for light-bodied wines so that you can have another glass if you like-lower levels of alcohol (13% or lower) go down easy and can help keep you from feeling woozy or full.

Don't forget rosé for summer picnics and parties. Many dry rosés are delicious cold and have enough oomph to partner up with stronger-tasting foods. And their clear pink color pretties up your table.

Here are some specific ideas for refreshing wines:

Sauvignon Blanc: Look for the exciting, grapefruit-accented New Zealanders.

Riesling: German, Alsatian and Austrian Rieslings are most elegant.

Chenin Blanc: This lovely lightweight wine can be gently sweet or breathtakingly tangy.

Viognier: Find floral and peachy notes in this nicely rounded wine.

Sparkling Prosecco, Asti Spumante or Spanish Cava: All make easy partners to casual foods.

Rosés: Especially look for rosés from the South of France, which are notoriously dry and crisp.