So who says you can’t have steak in the summertime?  Obviously, red meat is on the heavier side of summertime dining—so how do you avoid becoming the human version of the Titanic, slipping into a blissful doze at the dinner table?

It’s simple:  choose a wine made from a varietal that is lighter in texture and tannin than the “old faithful” California Cabernet, yet still delivers on flavor profile while leaving you wanting another glass, and most importantly, upright and awake!

As a veteran of the restaurant industry and specifically an internationally renowned steakhouse, my favorite summer “steaktime” wines come from Spain. These days tremendous excitement surrounds the Spanish wine industry, adding to an already steadfast band of die-hard fans.  Since we are talking about red meat, we are talking red wine.  The main varietals for these Spanish reds include Tempranillo, Garnacha, Bobal, Monastrell (Mourvedre), along with well-known international varietals.  For now, we will concentrate on the beloved Tempranillo, which is also called Tinto de Toro. 

Young Tempranillo has a relatively neutral profile and is sometimes blended with Grenache and/or Carignan, and is accessible from an early age.  However, something MAGICAL happens when Tempranillo is aged both in barrel and bottle for extended periods of time.  The wine takes on a personality of its own:  Bold, round and dense with brilliant fruit, balanced acidity and unctuous to the last drop. 

The best examples of a fine Tempranillo hail from the regions of Rioja, Ribera del Duero and the Toro.  The good news is that there is an amazing Tempranillo in just about every price range and they're available at most ABC locations!  Here are a few of my favorites:

2004 Bai Gorri Reserva Rioja $39.99

Glass staining ruby. Ripe cherry and blackberry aromas are compiled with notes of vanilla and roasted coffee.  Big and broad, with notes of smoke and cracked pepper speckled with candied violet.  Finishes smooth and sweet with tenacity.

IWC 91

2010 Zumaya Crianza $18.99

A dense Tempranillo out of a great vintage year.  Aromas of red and black fruit paired with warm black cherry flavors, create a notable style that is easy to enjoy.

2009 M.O. Olivara $17.99

A medium to full-bodied wine that has red berry-scented aromas and a big, rich, meaty flavor that will stand up to any grilled meat…and I mean any.

2011 Domino de Heredia Rioja $12.99

One of the great values from the Rioja.  This wine is from 25+ year-old vines.  Aging 5 months in French (80%), American (15%), and Hungarian (5%) oak casks, this Tempranillo shows dark ruby with aromas of red cherry and strawberry; intense flavors of red berry, with a bright middle and a profound finish.

Heather Burton, wine consultant at ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Winter Park.

Follow me on Twitter @abcwineheatherb.