Wine

Ecker's liter bottles of grüner veltliner have been a favorite of mine for years, so it's no surprise that the 2012 Ecker Zweigelt ($15/liter) tickled my not-so-fancy palate. This is a refreshing "summer red," with beautiful red-berry and herb/spice flavors and a rosé-like zinginess. It's a fab introduction to this emerging varietal, light in alcohol (12.5 percent) and body and best served slightly chilled. The crisp, fresh flavors make it a great match for most anything off the grill, from burgers and brats to peppery pork chops.

Available at Cheers, McDonald's, Stinson, Wine Thief, Zipp's, Lake Wine & Cheese, Kowalski's (Woodbury) and Lakeville muni (Kendrick Av.).

Bill Ward