Guest article by our friend Charlotte Randolph, Michelin Guide 2021 Wine Sommelier of the Year

It's the 4th of July, and amidst the festivities, my uncle hands me a glass of cabernet, eagerly seeking my professional opinion. The wine is warm and we are both nearly baking in the sun. Not to be dramatic, but it literally stings my palette leaving it dry and dusty.  In a moment of desperation, all I can manage is a hesitant "It's great..." before making a hasty retreat to awkwardly cannonball into the pool, splashing the grandkids in the process, hoping he sees me as a child again and to avoid any more uncomfortable grown-up wine questions. Unfortunately, a chilled red is nowhere to be found, so I settle for a Pacifico instead.

We are so comfortable with serving and storing red wines at room temperature. It's a shame, really. Serving reds at cellar temperature, between 50 and 60°F (10-15°C), unveils delicate and beautiful aromas. But when those sweltering Santa Ana winds pick up, even cellar temperature won't cut it for a refreshing glass. ’Tis the season for glou glou!

Here's a quick guideline for finding your perfect poolside red:

• Look for red wines that are fresh, meaning from this vintage or the last ('21 or '22). Seek out juicy varieties like Gamay, Trousseau, Pinot Noir, and others that have a light-footed nature.  

• Opt for wines with minimal tannins. Cooler temperatures can intensify tannins, making them harsh and overpowering. 

• Avoid new oak influence as it can create a disjointed and aggressive taste. Save the Napa Cabernet and Australian Shiraz for another occasion! 

• If you've been saving an older wine, it will showcase its best qualities between 50 and 60°F (10-15°C), so be cautious not to chill it excessively.

Pro tip- don’t get the wine too cold if you’re not drinking it outdoors in the sun- let it warm up from the fridge for an hour if you’re staying indoors. 

My favorite chillable red wines ‘round town:

• Lo-Fi Wines 2022 Gamay/Pinot Noir Blend from Santa Barbara Co. - Available at BottleCraft North Park.  Crunchy garnet red fruit, nothing fussy, just pure fun. It's my go-to porch pounder, perfect for enjoying with strawberries and cheese!

• Broc Cellars 2022 Cabernet Franc KOUKOU - Find this gem at Vino Carta in Little Italy. Bing cherries and summer peppers, complemented by refreshing acidity. Chips and salsa, Summer nacho pairing!

• Es Okay 2021 Red Wine from Mendocino - Look for it at Bine and Vine in Normal Heights. This wine is all about purple flavors, with notes of plum jam, Big League Chew, and Concord grape. It's an excellent companion for a juicy burger.

Charlotte Randolph, a self-made sommelier and co-founder of Californios, discovered her passion for wine while building her restaurant in San Francisco. In just six months, she earned her certification and evolved the wine program, earning prestigious accolades like Michelin stars and awards from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. Her love for wine has taken her around the world, exploring wine-growing regions and pairing over 2,000 courses. Now based in San Diego, she aims to elevate the city's wine culture and inspire local enthusiasm for wine through her expertise and passion.