All the flowers are inspiring, but the temperatures aren’t quite ready for us to have rosés or whites all the time. Pop the corks on some light reds that fit the in-between bill. 

Varvaglione Primitivo 12 e Mezzo: Could there be a more springlike label? Luckily the wine is just as vibrant, bursting with red currants and violets. ($18)

Domaine Stéphane Ogier Le Temps est Venu Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2020: A blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, full of black plum with pops of pepper and herbs. ($24)

Villa Gemma Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo 2021: This is technically a rosé but such a dark one that it borders on the light red category. The pale cherry color alone gets me every time I pour it out, and the piquant cherry fruit on the palate is then the added bonus. ($18)

Hazelfern Gamay Noir 2021: This may have been my favorite wine this month! Gorgeously light and bright black and red currant fruits from Oregon’s Chehalem Mountain AVA, with a dusting of ashy soil.  ($45 and so worth it)

Want to be the first to get the monthly recommendations right in your inbox? Woo hoo, sign up here!