Oakton Wine Shop: Cool Off With A Cold One

Whether you're a wine snob or avid beer drinker, the Oakton Wine Shop is stocked with unique wine or beer.

Proprietor Bryan Gauthier says business has been steady through this week's heat wave.

"It's been steady since the beginning of June," Gauthier said. "Knock on wood, we've had a really good summer so far."

Gauthier says popular wines include cold white wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio.

Beer makes up 10 percent of the shop's sales, Gauthier said. Brews from Port City Brewery are a hit, as well as summer lagers and wheat beers.

Gauthier recommends the following wines and beers for those looking for something a little different:

Di Lenardo, Pinot Grigio Friuli, Italy - "An everyday Pinot Grigio which is full of flavor and doesn't break the bank."  $14.

Jermann, Pinot Grigio Venezia Guilia, Italy - "One of the true greats, this Pinot Grigio is rich balanced and elegant and delivers a wide spectrum of flavors all of which are refreshing and enjoyable." $26.

Save Me San Francisco Wine Co, Calling All Angels Chardonnay, California - "From the band Train these wines are great everyday values, showing a touch of oak and creamy apple pear notes."  $12.

Mer Soleil, Silver Unoaked Chardonnay Santa Lucia Highlands, California - "Aged in concrete containers, this Chardonnay shows excellent fruit and minerality." $33.

Philippe Plantevin, Le Preussier Rose Cotes du Rhone, France - "A blend of Grenache and Syrah this Rose is crisp and clean with a nice round mouth feel with right strawberry and candied watermelon notes." $17.

Beers:

Lost Rhino, Faceplant IPA, Ashburn, VA - "Local brewery in Ashburn is making a nice hoppy IPA which is well balanced with citrus and floral notes." $11 per six pack.