When the temperature rises, our palates naturally crave lighter, fresher, and more vibrant flavors. But a shift in season doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the sophisticated ritual of a great wine pairing.

Because the Isabel collection is crafted from premium California fruit and gently dealcoholized, it offers the structural depth, natural acidity, and elegant finish of traditional wine - minus the heat and dehydration of alcohol.

From sun-drenched afternoon lunches to breezy twilight dinners, here is your definitive guide to pairing Isabel Non-Alcoholic Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon this summer.

1. The Bright & Crisp Match: Isabel Non-Alcoholic Chardonnay

Our Chardonnay is defined by its bright acidity, crisp green apple notes, and a beautifully clean finish. In warm weather, it acts as a refreshing counterpoint to rich, creamy textures and elevates simple, fresh-caught ingredients.

The Ideal Flavor Profiles

Think citrus, fresh herbs (mint, tarragon, basil), creamy cheeses, and clean proteins.

The Perfect Summer Pairings

• Heirloom Tomato & Burrata Caprese: A quintessential summer classic. The electric acidity of our Chardonnay beautifully cuts through the rich, creamy center of the burrata, while its subtle fruit notes complement the sweetness of ripe, seasonal tomatoes and fresh basil.

• Chilled Seafood Platter: Whether it’s fresh oysters with a squeeze of lemon, shrimp cocktail, or a delicate crab salad, this wine’s crisp profile acts like a squeeze of citrus, lifting the clean ocean flavors.

• Summer Corn Chowder or Risotto: For a cozy but warm-weather-friendly dinner, sweet summer corn paired with a light, herbaceous risotto mirrors the elegant, rounded texture of the Chardonnay without overwhelming the palate.

Serving Note: Keep it exceptionally crisp. Serve the Chardonnay thoroughly chilled (around 45–50°F). For outdoor gatherings, nestle the bottle in a shallow stone or ceramic bowl filled with crushed ice and citrus wheels to keep it cold right at the table.

2. The Sun-Down Grounding Match: Isabel Non-Alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon

Many people shy away from red wine in warm summer months because the combination of high alcohol and summer heat can feel incredibly heavy. Our Cabernet Sauvignon solves this beautifully: it delivers a bold, smooth, and full-bodied red wine experience with none of the alcohol burn, making it remarkably comfortable to enjoy on a warm evening.

The Ideal Flavor Profiles

Think smoke, char, earthy mushrooms, rich reductions, and savory, umami-forward herbs like rosemary and thyme.

The Perfect Summer Pairings

• Wood-Fired Flatbreads: Top a crispy, charred flatbread with grilled figs, peppery arugula, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and shaved prosciutto. The balanced tannins and dark fruit notes of the Cabernet anchor the sweet-and-savory contrast beautifully.

• Grilled Skirt Steak with Fresh Chimichurri: The grill is central to summer dining. A premium, wood-fired skirt steak or flank steak matches the depth of a Cabernet, while a bright, herbaceous garlic-and-parsley chimichurri sauce bridges the gap to the wine's smooth finish.

• Balsamic Glazed Portobello Burgers: For a sophisticated vegetarian option, grilled portobello mushroom caps marinated in balsamic, garlic, and rosemary offer a rich, meaty texture that stands up beautifully to the structure of the red.

The Secret "Cellar Chill": Give your Cabernet Sauvignon a quick 15-to-20 minute rest in the refrigerator or ice bucket before pouring. Bringing the temperature down to a cool "cellar temp" (around 60°F) keeps the rich blackberry and plum flavors incredibly sharp, vibrant, and refreshing in the summer air.