(This story is sponsored by The Second Act.)

In the summer, days are longer and the nights are warmer, which means there should always be a few bottles of chilled wine in your fridge. Because of this, it’s easy to get carried away during the work week. Instead of drinking an entire bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, opt for a lighter wine that won’t leave you regretting your decisions the next day.

With a low-alcohol wine, you’re able to experience its delicate flavours without the overpowering taste of alcohol. Plus, you can top up your glass more often than you would with a higher ABV wine, without fear of having a pounding headache the next day.

The field blend Piquette, from The Second Act winery made in the Okanagan Valley, is naturally lower in alcohol. This gorgeous light pink wine is made from the second-stage fermentation of grape skins. Since it has a low ABV, Piquette wines were originally consumed by vineyard workers around the lunch table. Currently, this type of wine is only being produced by a handful of wineries.

The refreshing wine is exceedingly easy to drink and its lower alcohol content comes from the addition of water to the grape skins after they are pressed for wine. The Second Act’s Piquette has a 6.3 percent ABV and is available at BC Liquor Stores.

While we adore a glass of light-bodied wine served on its own, the flavours in the Piquette are elevated when consumed with a slice of grapefruit. A fruit-garnished glass of this beautiful rose-coloured wine will transport you to a charming patio overlooking a lush vineyard.

Upon pouring a glass, you’ll smell the refreshing aromas of cherry, vanilla, and hibiscus. It’s mild in acidity with low tannins, has a gentle fizz, and will surely tantalize your palate with every sip. The dry wine’s unique and earthy flavour profile is comprised of cranberry, hibiscus, peach, and cherry. 

Because the Piquette is pleasantly bubbly, it’s best paired with light, summery foods like salads, grilled fish with mango salsa, and even fresh sushi.

Visit the nearest BC Liquor Store location and pick up a bottle of The Second Act’s Piquette today.