There are endless ways to enjoy summer—and just as many ways to enjoy Rioja.

From lively game nights to breezy family strolls and relaxed backyard grilling, the versatility of Rioja wines makes them the perfect match for whatever the longest days of the year bring your way.

To kick off our Seasonal Pairings series, we’ve chosen three summer-ready activities and paired them with wines that enhance the moment. Each pairing is designed to highlight the spectrum of Rioja styles while keeping things fresh, approachable, and rooted in real-life enjoyment.

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1. Game Night + Rioja White

Whether it’s a full-blown board game marathon or a laid-back round of cards on the patio, game night is all about connection. For those slower summer evenings spent with close friends or family, we recommend pairing the fun with a Rioja white that delivers richness and refreshment.

Look for Viura-based whites with crisp acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish. These wines are complex but balanced—easy enough to sip between turns, yet structured enough to complement snacks and small bites.

Game Suggestions:

Classic card games like Spades or Rummy

Cooperative games like Wingspan or Forbidden Island

Conversation games like TableTopics or We’re Not Really Strangers

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2. Summer Stroll + Rioja Rosado

Not all summer outings need to be a big production. Sometimes, the best moments happen during a low-key walk through your neighborhood, a nearby park, or even a rose garden that allows for an open-air picnic and sip.

For these light, refreshing outings, reach for a chilled bottle of Rioja rosado. These wines are known for their vibrant red fruit aromas, food-friendly acidity, and elegant style. They’re low in alcohol and high in refreshment—perfect for winding down without slowing down.

Pair with:

A garden stroll or Sunday morning farmer’s market

A casual sidewalk chalk art session with kids

An early evening picnic while the sun dips behind the trees

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3. BBQ Shrimp + Rioja Crianza

There’s something universally satisfying about a summer grill session. And few dishes hit the sweet spot between easy prep and impressive flavor quite like BBQ shrimp.

We recommend pairing this smoky, slightly sweet dish with a modern Rioja Crianza—primarily Tempranillo-based reds that feature ripe fruit, soft tannins, and just enough oak to stand up to grilled fare.

Fire-Grilled Garlic Shrimp Skewers

This fire-grilled garlic shrimp recipe is all about simplicity, bold flavor, and perfect texture. By infusing the shrimp with aromatic garlic oil and cooking them quickly over an open flame, you get juicy, tender shrimp with a smoky char and a garlicky finish

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs (700 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

6–8 garlic cloves, very finely minced

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Coarse sea salt or flaky salt, to finish

Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Oil:
In a small bowl, combine the finely minced garlic with the olive oil. Let it sit for at least one hour at room temperature. This allows the oil to absorb the garlic’s flavor without burning later on the grill.

2. Skewer the Shrimp:Thread the shrimp onto skewers, about 4–5 per stick. Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the shrimp with the garlic oil on all sides. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling.

3. Grill the Shrimp:
Prepare a high-heat open grill. Once hot, place the skewers directly over the flame. Grill for about 1.5–2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn opaque with light charring. Don’t overcook—shrimp should be juicy and slightly springy, not rubbery.

4. Finish and Serve:
Transfer the grilled shrimp skewers to a large serving tray. While still hot, sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt. Serve immediately.

These garlic shrimp skewers are perfect with a chilled glass of white wine, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables. The secret is in the garlic oil and that quick, hot fire. Simple, fast, and full of flavor.

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Come Back for the Next Season

This is just the beginning. Our Seasonal Pairings series continues all year long with curated wine + activity pairings designed to match the vibe of every season. Whether you’re bundled up in fall or soaking up the sun in August, Rioja has the perfect pour for every moment.

Stay tuned and come back soon for more pairings.