With warm weather starting to come most people's way - unless you live on the opposite side of the world - but let's just not go there now - many of us are thinking of packing away our winter clothing and our winter wine as well. It is time to look ahead to lighter wines on the menu, and that's pretty much what this grape journalist is doing as he gives us some tips on some hot wines for summer:

Osborne 2004 Solaz Tempranillo/Cabernet Sauvignon $10.25 (Spain)

Everyone wants a friendly red priced at $10 or less and this Spanish entry nicely fills the niche. On the nose, mace, blackberry, and cedar lead into flavours showing vanilla-laced black cherry fruit, with a hint of raspberry in the background. The finish shows violets and a bit of tart raspberry which mellows as it breathes.

LCBO # 610188

FOOD SUGGESTION: Grilled burgers

RATING: 88

Rosemount Diamond Label 2006 Sauvignon Blanc $13.95 (Australia)

A refreshing sauvignon blanc, with tropical notes in the 2006 mellowing out any natural grassy tendencies. Aromas of lime and spicy apple, with an undertone of roasted nuts. On the palate, spicy apple, zingy gooseberry and crushed pineapple. The finish is long and spicy showing just a hint of grapefruit lingering.

LCBO# 329573

FOOD SUGGESTION: Shrimp! kebabs

RATING: 88

Beringer Stone Cellars 2005 Chardonnay $14.15 (California)This chardonnay is a perfect summer sipper with lots going on. The aromas hint of floral acacia, with buttery apple, lemon oil and lime nuances playing along. The flavours show judicious oak, with golden apple and butter licks and a touch of citrus. The finish is mellow and round and mouth filling.

LCBO # 606806

FOOD SUGGESTION: Roast grilled chicken

RATING: 89