Mother Nature seems to have finally shed her long underwear and opened the window on the world making it patio/porch/deck drinking season once again. Most of the time such wines are light and refreshing, easy drinking, no thinking bottles. But every once in a while it's fun to toss in something exotic that causes at least a pause or two before you throw a glass down the hatch. I had a trio of these in hand when I ventured over to a neighbor's house last weekend for some "serious" porch drinking. Serious as in serious FUN. We explored two off-the-beaten-path wines and a new twist on an old favorite.

Lamberti Sparkling Rose Vino Spumante-Once again a DRY twist on an Italian wine most of us have only had when it's sweet. (Read one of my previous Wine Scene's about the pleasures of DRY lambrusco). This salmon pink wine is crisp light and a perfect sunset sipper. Lovely aromas and flavors of wild strawberries. Clean dry finish with just enough fizz to give a surprising lift and lightness on the palate.

Barefoot "Refresh" Crisp White, California-The Barefoot label is one you can trust. I don't think I've ever had a bottle of any of the varietals produced that weren't tasty. This one too is an easy drinker made from chenin blanc and riesling. Aromas and flavors of apricots, green apple and honeydew melon. A slight effervescence that zips up the finish a bit. Screw cap and super affordable. Chill it and swill it. Add some frozen raspberries, blueberries and serve in a champagne flute for fun.

2008 Chateau Harlaftis Cabernet Sauvignon, Region of Attica, Greece-Old world style dry red; notes of "barn yard" often found in Bordeaux, that mushroom, leather, tobacco, wet hay sort of smell. Some like it, some do not. Smooth on the palate then ends with chewy tannins. This one does need food. Preferably Greek which is why it's a staple on the Greek Islands restaurant menu. Opa!