The summer solstice in the northern hemisphere occurred yesterday at 11:28am GMT. Let this opportunity for the longest day influence your wine choice and read on for some ideal summertime sippers.

Leasingham Magnus Riesling 2009 £7.99 Sainsbury's, Somerfield and £6.99 at Ocado

Sourced from the high altitude of the Clare Valley in Australia and renowned for its Rieslings, this wine is choc-full of flavours. Concentrated lime intermingles with the refreshing steely acidity and mineral notes. The acidity and freshness makes for a long, balmy evening’s sipping.

De Bortoli Vat 7 Chardonnay 2008 £7.99 at Oddbins

Now in brand new packaging this wine stands out even before it even hits your mouth. This is another great example of the different styles of chardonnay being produced in Australia. Full bodied with aromas of peach, nectarine and melon with the added notes of oak make this a must have with a chicken caesar salad or pasta carbonara.

Robert Mondavi Woodbridge Shiraz 2007 down from £7.45 to just £5 at Sainsbury’s (offer ends Wednesday 21 July)

Bold, ripe and spicy, this shiraz bursts with juicy berry characters.

Layers of blueberry and blackberry accented with a touch of sweet spice make this an ideal accompaniment for marinated BBQ meats – so enjoy a summer solstice barbie with this sizzling deal.

Saint-Mont En la tradition Rosé 2009 £7.49 Waitrose

With exotic notes of strawberries, pomegranates and papaya, this subtle yet characterful rosé is a real easy drinking gem.

Enjoy on the longest day of the year, watching the sunset and accompanied with a sumptuous meal such as grilled sea bass or a fresh salad with tomatoes and rocket.

Also great with light fruit desserts such as passion fruit sorbets and mango cheesecake.