Summer is all about sunshine, sizzling grills, and refreshing sips by the pool. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a leisurely afternoon by the water, nothing complements grilled dishes and outdoor fun quite like sparkling wine. From the first pop of the cork to the last fizzy sip, sparkling wine brings vibrant energy, refreshing flavors, and easy versatility to any summer gathering.
Opera Prima’s wide range of sparkling wines—including Blue Moscato, Brut, Mimosa, and Bellini—makes it simple to elevate your BBQ or poolside event with wines that are as bubbly and bold as your summer plans.
Why Sparkling Wine Works So Well for BBQs and Pool Parties
1. Crisp & Refreshing
Unlike heavier wines or sugary cocktails, sparkling wine has a refreshing, crisp quality that’s ideal for hot weather. The effervescence instantly cools the palate, making it the perfect partner for grilled fare.
2. Low Alcohol, Longer Enjoyment
Many sparkling wines, such as Opera Prima Blue Moscato and Mimosa, feature lower alcohol content than typical wines or spirits. This makes them perfect for daytime events, allowing guests to sip and savor throughout the afternoon without overindulging.
3. Effortless Elegance
Serving sparkling wine adds a festive, elevated touch to even the most casual gathering. It looks beautiful in glasses, feels celebratory, and is easy to serve chilled right from the cooler or ice bucket.
Top Sparkling Wine Picks for BBQ Season
Opera Prima Blue Moscato: Sweet & Lively
This vibrant, slightly sweet sparkling wine is bursting with notes of lychee, peach, and citrus, making it an ideal pairing for spicy BBQ dishes or fruit-forward sides. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken skewers, spicy shrimp tacos, or fresh mango salsa.
Explore Opera Prima Blue Moscato here
Opera Prima Brut: Crisp & Classic
For those who enjoy a dry, crisp wine, Opera Prima Brut offers the perfect balance of bright acidity and subtle fruit flavors. It’s excellent alongside grilled seafood, herby chicken, or veggie kabobs. Its bubbles cut through richer dishes like smoked sausages and charred veggies, offering a refreshing finish.
Discover Opera Prima Brut here
Opera Prima Mimosa: Citrus-Infused Fun
Bringing together sparkling wine and orange juice, Opera Prima Mimosa is sunshine in a glass. Serve this at poolside brunches or midday BBQs alongside lighter dishes like grilled fish tacos, citrus salads, or fresh fruit platters.
Opera Prima Bellini: Peach-Perfect Pairing
Opera Prima Bellini, infused with peach flavors, pairs beautifully with pork ribs, BBQ-glazed wings, or grilled peaches with honey. Its slightly sweet, juicy notes enhance the smoky richness of grilled meats.
Sparkling Wine & BBQ Pairing Ideas
Grilled Meats
Sparkling wines with bright acidity, like Opera Prima Brut, cut through the fattiness of BBQ pork, sausages, and ribs.
Spicy Dishes
Sweet sparkling wines, such as Blue Moscato or Bellini, balance spicy heat, making them great with jalapeño poppers, spicy BBQ sauces, or buffalo wings.
Seafood
For shrimp skewers, grilled salmon, or seafood tacos, a crisp mimosa or brut wine complements without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Grilled Vegetables
Sparkling wines elevate veggie dishes—think charred corn with lime butter or smoky grilled zucchini.
Poolside Sparkling Cocktails for BBQ Season
Want to get creative? Here are some poolside-ready cocktails using Opera Prima sparkling wines:
Peach BBQ Fizz
- Opera Prima Bellini
- Splash of lemon soda
- Fresh peach slices
Serve chilled over ice for a refreshing, fruit-forward drink.
Citrus Grill Spritz
- Opera Prima Mimosa
- Club soda
- Mint leaves and orange wedges
Perfect for sipping between bites of grilled chicken or shrimp.
Blueberry Grill Cooler
- Opera Prima Blue Moscato
- Blueberry lemonade
- Ice & fresh blueberries
Sweet, tangy, and perfectly refreshing for any sunny afternoon.
Hosting Tips for BBQ & Pool Parties with Sparkling Wine
- Keep it Chilled: Serve sparkling wine ice-cold. Use coolers with plenty of ice or keep bottles submerged in an ice bucket.
- Use Shatterproof Glassware: Opt for outdoor-friendly wine tumblers to avoid breakage around the pool.
- Pre-Mix Cocktails: Batch cocktails in pitchers for quick refills and less time spent bartending.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh fruit, edible flowers, and herbs make beautiful garnishes and enhance the wine’s aroma.
Sustainability Note: Sip Responsibly
Opera Prima is committed to sustainable winemaking. Enjoying their sparkling wines means you’re supporting eco-friendly production practices that protect the environment.
Learn more about Opera Prima’s sustainability efforts here
Where to Buy
Ready to stock up for your BBQ? Use Opera Prima’s store locator to find a nearby retailer and enjoy these summer-ready wines at your next gathering.
For more BBQ pairing inspiration, check out this expert guide on BBQ wine pairing from Wine Enthusiast.
FAQs About Sparkling Wines for BBQs & Poolside Parties
What is the best sparkling wine for BBQ?
Opera Prima Brut is an excellent choice for BBQs, thanks to its crisp, refreshing acidity that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables.
Can I serve sparkling wine outdoors?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-chilled and served in pool-safe glasses if you’re near water or in the backyard.
Which sparkling wine pairs best with spicy dishes?
Opera Prima Blue Moscato or Bellini pair beautifully with spicy foods. Their sweet, fruity profiles balance heat and create a harmonious taste experience.
Are sparkling wine cocktails easy to make for parties?
Yes! Most sparkling wine cocktails require only two or three ingredients. Pre-batch them in pitchers for easy serving during the event.
How should I store leftover sparkling wine?
Seal the bottle tightly with a wine stopper and refrigerate. Sparkling wine will retain some bubbles for up to two days if stored properly.
