Summer Wines From Argentina, Spain, and Austria

There are many great wine importers in the U.S., and there are even a few here in Austin. One of the best and most consistent is Frederick Wildman and Sons out of New York City. Its portfolio (about 75 wineries and hundreds of wines) covers the best wines of Europe and South America. Over the next couple of weeks, Wildman will be releasing three delicious white wines, each for less than $10 and ideal for cooldowns during our oppressive Texas summers.

From Argentina, the Trapiche Torrontes offers opulent floral, peach, and lemon aromas ideal for matching up with ceviche or lightly fried (as with panko, in a pan) fish.

Spain's El Coto de Rioja winery is massive (it has more than 6,000 acres planted to vineyards), but its commitment to quality is unassailable. Every year, its El Coto de Rioja Blanco gets a little bit better than before. The wine is made solely from citrusy Viura grapes that match up nicely with a lightly dressed, fresh green salad.

The Austrian entry is the smartly named Grooner Grüner Veltliner, a tasty version of the grape that is missing perhaps some of the white pepper found in more expensive Grüners but that makes up for it with abundant apple aromas and a velvety mouthfeel. Try it with a homemade chicken salad or, even better, with a light curry.

Whether with food or as an aperitif, all three of these wines are delicious discoveries well worth trying and are widely available around Central Texas.