If you’ve made it this far into summer in Miami, you deserve a reason to celebrate. While I hope you’re still working on my June Vino column’s wine bucket list, I wanted to give you a few more reasons to support restaurants around our city this summer, starting with some enjoyable wine “holidays” happening throughout August.
Whether you’re into chilled whites or bold Cabernet, there are a few excuses to have some friends over or head out on the town and indulge a bit in your favorite bottles. From Prosecco to Pinot Noir, here are the August wine holidays and some ways to celebrate vino in Miami this month.
AUG. 1: WORLD ALBARIÑO DAY
( Raimat)
Celebrate World Albariño Day with an affordable bottle of wine from Spain.
Originally established to honor the signature white grape of the Rías Baixas region of Spain and northern Portugal, World Albariño Day can be celebrated with wines from around the world. This day is a tribute to the grape’s growing global popularity and its food-friendly appeal.
At Home
Raimat Albariño from Spain’s Costers del Segre region offers bright citrus, white flowers, and a saline finish that makes it an ideal summer white. It’s a refreshing, budget-friendly choice that pairs perfectly with ceviche or a simple shrimp and avocado salad.
Total Wine, $9.99.
Dining Out
Celebrate Albariño Day over classic Spanish tapas at Bulla Gastrobar in Coral Gables, The Falls, or Doral. Their wine list often features Albariño by the glass, including selections like Paco y Lola or Senda Verde. Pair it with seafood tapas or octopus salad for a match that captures the spirit of Galicia in a Miami setting.
AUG. 4: NATIONAL WHITE WINE DAY
(Stag's Leap Wine Cellars)
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars makes a standout Chardonnay that would be a nice addition to any white wine celebration.
National White Wine Day celebrates the diversity and versatility of white wines, from crisp and mineral to rich and creamy. It’s a moment to revisit familiar favorites or explore new expressions.
At Home
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars "Karia" Chardonnay from Napa Valley is a full-bodied, vibrant, yet elegant white, with citrus blossom, peach, and well-integrated oak on the palate. It strikes a balance between freshness and richness, making it a standout for White Wine Day. Karia pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, creamy risotto, or lobster pasta.
Total Wine, $29.97
Dining Out
Visit Cleo restaurant at the Balfour Hotel on South Beach to enjoy a stylish, wine-forward meal featuring classic Mediterranean dishes. While the wine list may change, you can usually find a diverse white selection such as Assyrtiko from Greece, Grenache Blanc from France, or Italian Verdicchio. This Mediterranean menu is full of delicious mezze options, grilled branzino, kebabs, and more, offering plenty of pairing possibilities.
AUG. 13: INTERNATIONAL PROSECCO DAY
(Bisol)
Jeio Prosecco by Bisol is a celebration in itself!
This day pays tribute to Italy’s most famous sparkling wine, made primarily from the Glera grape. Known for its affordability, versatility, and effervescent charm, Prosecco has become the go-to bubbly for everything from brunch to beach days.
At Home
Bisol ‘Jeio’ Prosecco Brut DOC offers lively bubbles and fresh notes of pear, apple, and white flowers, and a clean, refreshing finish. It’s festive, reasonably priced, and perfect for a summer toast or a homemade spritz. Serve it well chilled on its own or in your favorite Prosecco cocktail at your next home brunch.
305 Wines, $18.99
Dining Out
Celebrate in true Venetian style at Bellini restaurant, located at the top of Mr. C Hotel in Coconut Grove. At Bellini, the namesake drink is more than a cocktail – it’s a Cipriani family tradition made with white peach purée and Prosecco. Toast to summer from the chic rooftop terrace, where the views are unmatchable and Prosecco is a house specialty.
AUG. 18: INTERNATIONAL PINOT NOIR DAY
Pinot Noir Day recognizes one of the world’s most beloved red grape varietie, one celebrated for its finesse, complexity, and food-pairing potential, whether it is grown in Burgundy, Sonoma, or Patagonia.
At Home
(Chateau Montelena)
Chateau Montelena's Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a celebrated Cabernet from a historical Napa Valley producer.
Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a beautifully balanced wine with flavors and aromas of red berry fruit, rose petals, and earthy spice. It's versatile enough to pair with everything from roast chicken to mushroom risotto or even just a night in with good friends. Flowers Pinot Noir is widely available at local wine shops.
305 Wines, $66
Dining Out
For a refined experience, head to Le Jardinier in the Design District. The French-inspired, vegetable-friendly menu is a natural fit for Pinot Noir’s elegance and acidity. Here, the by-the-glass list often includes Pinot options, and the modern garden setting elevates the experience.
AUG. 28: INTERNATIONAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON DAY AND NATIONAL RED WINE DAY
An occasion dedicated to both Cabernet Sauvignon and all red wines falls on the same day this year.
At Home
Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a Napa Valley classic from a historical winery. With notes of layered dark berries, cassis, mocha, and black pepper, framed by firm tannins and elegant oak, the Estate Cabernet is a wine that deserves dedication to enjoying every sip, and perhaps a heartier meal. This premium bottle can stand up to grilled ribeye, lamb chops, or whatever your meat lover desires.
Total Wine, $209.99
Dining Out
For a Cabernet-worthy dinner, reserve a table at Lafayette Steakhouse in Brickell. Lafayette is a modern steakhouse that delivers bold flavors and offers a robust wine list, featuring top Cabernets of the world. Whether you're pairing the wine with a tomahawk steak or filet mignon, it's a fitting finale for a month of wine celebration.
From the comfort of home to the city’s best wine lists, August offers a perfect excuse to raise your glass a little more often.
Jacqueline Coleman is a wine and travel writer and Star Wine List’s ambassador in Miami. She is a contributor to Luxury Guide USA magazine, a regular guest host on Linda Gassenheimer’s “Food, News & Views” podcast, and founder of BYOBMiami.com.
Jacqueline Coleman