Summer is the time of flowers and garden parties and long evenings on the porch or patio. What better time is there to enjoy a sweet treat like Marenco Asti Spumante DOCG ($11), a delicious sparkling wine from the Piedmont region of northern Italy?

Marenco Asti Spumante DOCG is made from 100% Moscato Bianco grapes, one of the most popular native grapes of the region. The word ‘spumante’ means ‘sparkling wine’ or ‘bubbly’ in Italian. With its pale-yellow color, fresh ant fruity taste and its fine, elegant bubbles, you’ll feel like you’re drinking one of Europe’s finest sparklers.

Marenco’s history dates to 1925 when Michele Marenco had the dream of making distinctive wines from grapes in his vineyards in the heart of Piedmont.

Sustainability and innovation are central to the commitment of the Marenco family.  Some of their vineyards have been cultivated for centuries.

All the wines produced at Marenco are made with native grapes grown and bottled at the Estate.

With Marenco Asti Spumante DOCG, orange blossoms greet your nose with their delicate perfume and flavors of ripe peaches and green apples unfold on your tongue. A creamy texture adds to the luxurious sensation.

Seafood and Asian dishes are perfect companions as are soft cheeses. Try a bit of Blue Cheese for a Yin and Yang twist!

Sushi and sashimi are my personal choices for appetizers.  Recommended main courses are Pineapple Chicken or Jumbo Shrimp with snow peas over glass noodles. Of course, you can’t go wrong with fish or chicken hot off the grill. Put some fresh, firm veggies or sweet corn on just as the embers start to fade. Feeling daring? Roast some sweet and hot peppers on the side for an extra kick.

Desserts love to be paired with Marenco Asti Spumante DOCG. Lemon or strawberry cheesecakes are my personal favorites. Vanilla pound cakes with soft ice cream or sorbet are another mouthwatering pair.

Marenco Asti Spumante DOCG also makes for an excellent way to greet your guests when they arrive for an afternoon of fun and food. Terrific on its own or with a variety of sausages, nuts, fruit and a cheese and vegetable tray, you can’t go wrong. Visit marencovini.com for more.  Drink Responsibly