EXPERT ADVICE

Wines for a Day at the Beach

Filling your ocean-side cooler usually doesn't require much thought: Water, ice, and a domestic pilsner or Mexican lager are easy. But wine drinkers shouldn't fear sand, price, or spoiling in the sun. There are plenty of high-quality beach-ready wines. First, the ground rules: The wine should be relatively low in alcohol (you don't want to be sunburned and drunk), and it needs to be crisp and acidic enough to quench your thirst (yes, wine can scratch that itch, too). Cost is another consideration. Remember, wine you drink at the beach should be as low-key as your day and cheap enough to spill without suffering any remorse. Here are five wines – not a rosé among them – that fit all the seaside criteria and are just right for sultry afternoons by the shore. Launch Gallery >>

Photograph by Claire Benoist

– Michael Steinberger