The Best Fall Wines and How to Serve Them

As the crisp air of fall settles in, it's the perfect time of year to explore a richer, more robust selection of wines that pair beautifully with the season’s flavors.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this guide will help you choose the best wines for fall and offer tips on how to serve them at the ideal temperature.

Why Fall is the Perfect Wine Season

Fall is a time of change—shorter days, cooler weather, and the transition from summer’s lighter dishes to heartier meals. These changes call for wines that complement the season’s flavors, including roasted vegetables, root dishes, and slow-cooked meats. Richer red wines and complex white wines step into the spotlight as seasonal wines that bring warmth and depth to any autumn gathering.

Best Wines for Fall

Here are the top wine varieties to enjoy during the autumn season:

1. Pinot Noir

• Why It’s Perfect for Fall: It is light enough to enjoy by itself. Yet, it is complex enough to pair with fall favorites like roasted turkey and mushroom dishes. Its earthy undertones and hints of cherry make it a versatile wine for cool-weather comfort foods.
• Serving Tip: You should serve Pinot Noir slightly chilled at around 55°F. Using a product like VoChill helps maintain its perfect serving temperature, especially if you're enjoying a glass outdoors.

2. Chardonnay (Oaked)

• Why It’s Perfect for Fall: It is rich and buttery. An oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with creamy dishes and roasted chicken. Its bold flavors and hints of vanilla and oak make it a great match for fall’s indulgent meals.
• Serving Tip: Serve Chardonnay slightly warmer than lighter whites, ideally between 50°F to 55°F.

3. Zinfandel

• Why It’s Perfect for Fall: It is full-bodied and fruity. Zinfandel pairs wonderfully with fall barbecues, stews, and dishes featuring smoky or spicy elements. Its bold, jammy flavors with notes of black pepper can stand up to rich, flavorful meals.
• Serving Tip: Zinfandel is best served between 60°F and 65°F.

4. Cabernet Sauvignon

• Why It’s Perfect for Fall: A classic fall wine, Cabernet Sauvignon is full bodied with dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum. Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect match for fall dishes like roasted meats, lamb, and hearty stews.
• Serving Tip: Serve at 60°F to 65°F, and remember to use VoChill to keep it at the optimal temperature while you sip.

5. Viognier

• Why It’s Perfect for Fall: For white wine lovers, Viognier offers a refreshing yet full-bodied option. With its notes of peach and honeysuckle, it’s a lovely match for dishes featuring squash, sweet potatoes, and root vegetables.
• Serving Tip: Viognier is best served around 50°F to 55°F.

Autumn Wine Pairings to Try

Pairing wine with food can elevate both the dish and the wine itself. Here are some ideal autumn pairings:

• Pinot Noir with Mushroom Risotto: The earthy tones of Pinot Noir enhance the richness of the mushrooms.
• Zinfandel with Smoked Brisket: The fruit-forward boldness of Zinfandel complements the smoky flavors of the brisket.
• Oaked Chardonnay with Butternut Squash Soup: The creamy texture of Chardonnay harmonizes with the velvety consistency of the soup.
• Cabernet Sauvignon with Lamb Stew: The dark fruit and tannins in Cabernet cut through the richness of a hearty stew.
• Viognier with Roasted Root Vegetables: The fresh yet bold profile of Viognier enhances the caramelized flavors of roasted vegetables.

Wine Temperature Control: A Crucial Element of Serving Fall Wines

One of the most overlooked aspects of wine drinking is temperature control. Serving your wine at the right temperature ensures that you’re experiencing all its nuanced flavors. VoChill's Wine Chillers offer an innovative solution to keep your wine at the perfect temperature for longer.

• For Reds: Serve fuller bodied reds slightly cooler than room temperature (60°F to 65°F).
• For Whites: Keep wines between 50°F and 55°F to prevent them from becoming too cold and losing their complexity.

Enjoy the Fall Wine Experience

Fall is the season to cozy up with a glass of wine that complements the flavors and atmosphere of autumn. Whether you're savoring a bold Zinfandel by the fire or pairing Pinot Noir with a fall feast, choosing the right wine and serving it at the correct temperature can transform your experience.

Embrace the flavors of fall with wines that complement the crisp air and hearty meals, and make the most of every glass.