Summer Wine and Beer Suggestions

The Occasion: Happy Hour

The Food

Cheese and crackers, nuts, olives, dips, chips, and crudités. See Backyard Barbecue.
 
 

The Drinks

Shown from left to right:
 
 Red wine: 2006 George Duboeuf Chiroubles Beaujolais, $12
Pure and bright, with aromas of lilac and violets, this great sipping wine isn’t bubble-gummy, like many Beaujolais. Nice with salty or sweet bites.
 
 White wine/rosé: 2006 Big House Pink, $10
It’s a snappy rosé: as refreshing as a white wine yet as substantial as a red one. The watermelon, guava, and tart raspberry flavors can handle cheese, nuts, and spicy olives.
 
 Beer: Harpoon India Pale Ale, $8.50 for a six-pack
A real thirst-quencher, this selection has a vibrant, bitter, and slightly fruity edge that goes well with many snack foods.