Fall is a magical time of year. We get treated to crisp weather, changing leaves, some fun holidays, as well as comforting food. There is something for just about everyone to enjoy when this season rolls around. And wine is one of those things. If you’re willing to set aside the seasonal microbrews and cider for a bit, here are some tips for choosing fall wines that you will love.

Choosing the Best Fall Wines

While spring and summer are generally about picking light-bodied wines you can chill and enjoy by the pool, autumn demands a varietal that is going to help you get cozy wherever you happen to be. That doesn’t necessarily mean you will warm your wine, nor does it mean that you won’t chill it to the proper temperature. It just means the flavors you choose will be a bit different.

It also doesn’t mean you have to abandon your favorite rose or white wine until next year. This is still a great time to enjoy zesty roses and rich white wines, as well as smooth reds that bring in a touch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or vanilla.

Top Wines for Fall

Now that the temperatures are dropping and fireplaces are crackling, different types of wines should be on your list. Here are several fall wines that you and your guests will be sure to enjoy over the coming months.

1. Pinot Noir

Nothing quite says “Fall” like a glass of Pinot Noir. This light-bodied red wine is produced in the United states in Washington and Oregon, as well as France. Slightly earthy and fruity, Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with stuffed mushrooms and poultry dishes.

For something unique, try the Pinot Noir from Meiomi. This wine offers the best expression of its respective appellation, carefully blended to achieve balance, complexity, and richness of flavor. This Northern California wine evokes notes of strawberry, mocha and vanilla.

2. Chardonnay 

Who doesn’t love Chardonnay? This is a popular year-round wine that comes in many varieties. You can find varieties that feature hints of oak, vanilla, pear, and even butterscotch. It will pair well with toasted nuts, seared scallops, and creamy pastas.

Check out the 2019 Kendall Jackson Chardonnay, a product of Sonoma County. The wine features tropical notes with a hint of vanilla and toasted oak.

3. Chenin Blanc

Another option if you love white wine is Chenin Blanc. This is a rich wine that is ideal for fall with its medium body that has notes of lemon curd, baked apple, and brioche. It pairs well with roast turkey, pot pies, and various fall soups.

Give Beringer’s Main & Vine Chenin Blanc a try. This wine is very well balanced with aromas and flavors of crisp citrus, melon and spicy ginger. It is great with a variety of ethnic foods with vibrant flavors.

4. Viognier

Voignier is a rich white wine that is similar to a Chardonnay but with added notes of honeysuckle, rose, and mango. The grape for this varietal comes from the Rhone Valley in France, but you can find this wine produced in Australia and California. This wine is an ideal match for baked sole or herb-roasted chicken.

Try the Cline Viognier from the north coast of California. It shows juicy tropical fruit, fresh apricot and notes of mandarin orange and grapefruit. Luscious and full bodied with a slight crisp acidity.

5. Tempranillo

You may not have heard of Tempranillo, but it’s become incredibly popular in Spain. With notes of baking spices like cloves and cinnamon, earthy tobacco, and dried fig, this medium-bodied red wine pairs well with roast lamb, chili, and baked pasta dishes.

Tempranillo can be costly, but there are affordable options. Check out Independent Tempranillo from Bajo Aragon region in Spain. It is savory, rich and beautifully balanced with flavors of blueberry and tobacco leaf.

6. Merlot

If you love a good red wine, Merlot makes an excellent choice for fall. With notes of vanillas, bay leaf, and plum, this medium-body red pairs well with roast turkey and short ribs.

For a merlot you’ll love, try Josh Merlot 2019 from Josh Cellars in Napa Valley. Josh Merlot is soft and inviting with balanced flavors of blueberry, raspberry, and milk chocolates and scents of fragrant violets and vanilla.

7. Beaujolais

Another good transitional wine is a Beaujolais. This light red wine is known for its light acidity, mild tannins, and bright notes of candied fruit. It pairs well with a wide range of foods, from steak to hearty pastas.

Check out the 2021 Domaine Jean Foillard Beaujolais Nouveau, which will be released on November 18, 2021. This wine showcases hints of raspberry, with a toasty oak flavor. You may also want to consider Louis Jadot Beaujolais. This French wine is plump and juicy, has fresh aromas and flavors of strawberries and black cherries offset by lively, peppery notes.

Get the Best Fall Wines for any Occasion at Nick’s of Calvert

Now that you know all about fall wines and the many options available this time of the year, you can start enjoying these different varieties with your meals and celebrations. Nick’s of Calvert offers one of the largest selections of wine, beer, and spirits in Southern Maryland – all at the lowest prices.

We carry many excellent fall wines, including some premium labels. Whether you are sure of your selection or need help making the right choice, we’d be happy to help. Contact us at (410) 414-7105 with any questions or visit us today.