Bonfire Sippers: Perfect Wines for the Fall Transition
As the air starts to cool and the days shorten, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a bonfire or fireplace to savor the crisp beginnings of fall. September is that perfect time when the last traces of summer linger, but cozy evenings hint at the season ahead. To elevate these moments, the right wine can set the mood. Here are some great choices to sip as the flames dance and the leaves begin to turn.
Pinot Noir: Light Yet Comforting
Pinot Noir is a quintessential fall wine, especially during this September shift. Its light body and bright acidity make it versatile enough to enjoy while it's still warm out, but its earthy undertones start to mirror the changing landscape. A bottle of Oregon Pinot Noir, with its notes of cherry, mushroom, and a hint of spice, brings a vibrant yet warming touch to a fireside chat. Try pairing it with grilled vegetables, charcuterie, or even marshmallows toasted over the fire for a playful twist. Either the Black Magnolia or Eola Hills Pinot Noir. Another great option if you want to try something different would be a Gamay from Beaujolais, in which case we suggest trying the Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages!
Tempranillo: A Rustic, Fireside Favorite
Tempranillo, with its bold fruit flavors and earthy, rustic notes, is a perfect fireside wine for fall. This Spanish varietal, particularly those from Rioja or Ribera del Duero, offers rich flavors of ripe red fruit, tobacco, leather, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging. These warm, savory characteristics mirror the comfort of a bonfire, while its moderate tannins and balanced acidity make it versatile for pairing with heartier fare. Enjoy Tempranillo alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or smoked cheeses as the flames crackle and the air cools. Its slightly rustic edge and complex flavors bring a touch of adventure to any autumn gathering, making it an ideal companion for cozy evenings spent outdoors. Try the El Porrón Finca Torremilanos!
Cabernet Franc: Herbaceous with a Smoky Edge
For those looking for something a bit more structured, Cabernet Franc is a perfect pick. Known for its peppery, herbal notes and a slight smokiness, it’s as if this wine was made for cooler evenings. The gentle tannins of a Cabernet Franc can cut through richer fall foods, while the hints of bell pepper, plum, and tobacco complement the aromas wafting from a bonfire. It's a wine that feels just right for a crisp night, balancing freshness with the heartiness that fall demands. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, we suggest you try Cosentino The Franc or the Ravines Cabernet Franc.
Viognier: A Bold White to Bridge the Seasons
If you’re not quite ready to part with white wines but still crave something richer, Viognier is your go-to. This full-bodied, aromatic white offers the lush flavors of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle, but with a weightiness that suits September’s cooler nights. Viognier's creamy texture and warm floral notes make it ideal for pairing with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even spiced nuts around the fire. It’s a beautiful match for those who want the best of summer and fall in a single glass. We suggest trying the La Paradou Viognier or Darioush Viognier.
Oaked Chardonnay: Creamy, Buttery Warmth
As we inch closer to sweater weather, oaked Chardonnay takes center stage. A well-oaked Chardonnay brings layers of creaminess, butter, and vanilla, making it feel almost like the wine equivalent of a cozy blanket. With underlying hints of toasted nuts and caramelized apples, it’s an excellent pairing for richer dishes like smoked cheeses, roasted corn, or even butternut squash. The slight toast from the oak barrels mirrors the warmth of the fire, while the wine’s structure holds up to cooler evenings. The Instigator is a wine that embodies all the fall flavors you could be looking for along with the every so tasty Sandhi Chardonnay.
Cozying Up with the Perfect Bottle
As you gather around your next bonfire, these wines offer the perfect accompaniment to this magical in-between season. Whether you reach for a light Pinot Noir, a rustic Tempranillo, a bold Cabernet Franc, a luxurious Viognier, or a buttery Chardonnay, each of these selections brings its own touch of warmth and flavor to your fireside gatherings. Let our knowledgeable staff assist you with your selections!