What does a long weekend mean to you? For us, Bank Holidays evoke hazy memories of long sunny days with food on the grill and a glass of something refreshing in hand. Let’s be honest: there’s nothing quite like a bank holiday barbecue. And while beer might be the obvious choice for some, a well-chosen bottle of wine can take your alfresco dining experience up several notches. So whether you're firing up steaks, seafood, or veggie skewers on the barbecue, Chapel Down has the perfect wine to match your feast.
Why Wine Belongs at Your BBQ
Wine isn’t just for fine dining—it’s a fantastic partner for grilled food. The smoky, charred flavours from barbecued dishes pair beautifully with the right wines, bringing out new dimensions in both food and drink. A crisp white cuts through the richness of grilled seafood, for instance, while a light rosé plays wonderfully with fresh summer vegetables. And the pairing potential for English sparkling wine is enormous – think anything from grilled king prawns to flavoured charred flatbreads and even meats.
The Best Chapel Down Wines for Your BBQ
For Seafood & Grilled Chicken – Chapel Down Bacchus
Zesty and aromatic, Bacchus is a wonderful choice for lighter grilled dishes such as seafood, chicken, or halloumi. Its crisp acidity and notes of citrus and elderflower cut through the richness of grilled salmon or complement the charred edges of barbecued prawns.
For Veggie Skewers & Summer Salads – Chapel Down English Rose
With its fresh red berry flavours and delicate floral notes, our English Rosé is a must-have for any summer gathering. It pairs effortlessly with grilled vegetables, feta-topped salads, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. It’s also an excellent crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for sharing.
For Summer Puddings – Chapel Down Rosé
Crisp, fresh and fruity, Chapel Down Rosé is an elegant sparkling wine that would work wonderfully with summer canapés. Or, for an absolute showstopper, pour alongside a summer pudding to round the day off in sumptuous style.
For a Refreshing Toast – Chapel Down Brut
No bank holiday celebration is complete without a bit of fizz. Chapel Down Brut is light, crisp, and oh-so drinkable, making it perfect for kicking off the barbecue or raising a glass to the long weekend.
BBQ Wine Tips
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Chill Your Wines To Ideal Temperature – On warm days, serving your wines at their recommended temperature is an important aspect often overlooked.
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Use Proper Glassware – Opt for elegant wine glasses that are also sturdy enough to withstand the outdoors - or high-quality reusable alternatives.
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Pair to the Sauce, Not Just the Meat – Rich barbecue sauces pair better with bolder wines, while citrusy marinades work best with crisp whites or rosé.
Raise a Glass to a Delicious Bank Holiday
Whether you’re hosting a garden party or heading to a picnic, the right wine can make all the difference. Stock up on your Chapel Down favourites and get ready for a bank holiday barbecue to remember. Cheers!
