Barbecuing season is almost here. Check, Please! host and master sommelier Alpana Singh joins us with the best drinks to serve grillside.

• Alpana's Memorial Day Drink Recommendations
• Places to purchase Dandelion Wine: Ackerman Winery, Amana Iowa and Village Winery, Amana Iowa

Alpana's Memorial Day Drink Recommendations:

• Gran Sarao Brut Rose, Spain $11 - “An affordable sparkling rose that you can bring to summer time celebrations. Also pains well with BBQ – especially ribs and other grilled, smoky foods. On the dry side but still fruity with flavors or strawberries, rose petals and dried cranberries.”
• 2007 Montes Alpha Syrah, Chile $20 – “Dark, rich and luscious with flavors of blackberries and smoked cherries. Subtle spice notes are a great match for grilled and smoky foods.”
• Aperol Orange Aperitif, “Aperol is a burnished orange color and is flavored with a subtle blend of bitter orange, gentian root, rhubarb, and other roots and herbs”

  Recipe:

  • 1 1/2 ounces Aperol
  • 3 ounces Presecco or sparkling wine, chilled
  • 1 lemon or orange slice

  Fill glass with ice. Add Aperol, Prosecoo and top with a splash of soda water. Garnish with a lemon or orange slice and serve.