5 Red Wines to FALL for this October

By Tammie Hughes

Fall represents a time of reassessment, a time to refocus, a time to release what no longer serves you, and a time to rejuvenate your body and mind. Fall opposes spring’s rebirth, fresh change, and new projects; fall instead leans into a gentle reset, subtle changes, and letting go—to foster a stronger foundation for winter. Pay attention to the changes that fall brings. I adore every aspect of fall. The weather is divine, and the changing colors of leaves inevitably lure me to the mountains. I rummage through the closet for cozy sweaters, flannels, and scarves.

I start to buy multiple varieties of winter squash. I make homemade soups or stews at least once a week. The call of a delightful beef bourguignon finds its way into the meal plan, with its delectable flavorings of bay, thyme, rendered pork fat, caramelized onions, and red wine reduction. The smell of fall baking spices wafts through the air as carrot cake, spiced rum pound cake, and gingerbread cookies bake gleefully in the oven. Suddenly I want to sit in front of a fire wearing a soft sweater, read a wonderful mystery, and enjoy a glass of Cabernet Franc. This time of year, I leave the whites and rosés of summer behind and welcome the warm and spicy reds of fall. Fall is about cozy comfort, time spent with family and friends, one-pot meals, warm desserts, good books, and a slower pace. To get you started on a path leading directly into the fall months, grab a bottle of one of the red wines below—boasting warm notes and fall spices.

Old Vine Zinfandel

Jammy fruits of blackberry and raspberry finish long and warm with fall spices of cinnamon, allspice, and vanilla. It has a nose of cedar and oak that softens. From Lodi, Central Valley, CA, Macchia Mischievous Old Vine Zinfandel uses multiple vineyards of old vines to create this classic representation of what old vine zin should be. It pairs very well with steaks, ribs, and dark chocolates. Cheeses like smoked gouda and Double Gloucester (a cheddar and stilton layered cheese, from England) are a great pick for this luscious wine. Averages around $25.

Pinot Noir

A complex earthy cigar note meets fruits of dark cherry and cranberry; perfect for a cozy evening in this Willamette Valley, Oregon wine from King Estate. It has an elegant finish with bright acidity and a vanilla finish. You’ll find this Willamette Valley wine for around $30 at most locations. It pairs well with roasted pork, chicken, savory mushrooms, and root vegetables. Also wonderful with aged Gouda or Manchego cheeses.

Cabernet Franc

Genetically, Cabernet Franc is the parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Cabernet Franc was crossed with the Sauvignon Blanc grape to create the ever-popular Cabernet Sauvignon. Much like an orchestra’s string instruments that tell a story with nuance and an articulate pitch versus the brass section with its bravado and command for attention, Cab Franc is more subtle than its child. Cabernet Franc gives us light berries blended with hints of cardamom, black tea, coffee notes, vanilla, and green peppercorns. This grape thrives in the Bordeaux and Loire Valley regions of France. Loire Valley arguably produces the purest offerings, often yielding distinct flavors of terroir and silky tannins that caress your soul. Try Château de Fesles Cabernet Franc, averaging around $22. You’ll want to serve this with beef bourguignon, charcuterie, and lentils. Aged cheddar and camembert are perfect cheese choices.

GSM Blend: Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre

Oh my, what a balanced blend and great entry point into bolder reds. This 2019 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine from Rhône, France opens with plum and currants, followed by cinnamon and fresh roasted coffee beans, and finishes with an anise and cherry note. I said it was complex! This GSM is 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and 5% Mourvèdre. The tannins are gentle but hold up the structure of a full-bodied spice-forward wine. Serve this fabulous wine with love tapenade, earthy risottos, lamb chops, spicy sausages, and grilled veggies. Pair with a Gruyère, Fontina, Roquefort, or Smoked Rambal cheese.

Shiraz

This South Australian wine is a poster child for Shiraz. Leading flavors of dark plum and blueberry layered on oak and cocoa are complemented with notes of fennel, black licorice, clove, cinnamon, and oak. The tannins are structured enough to support a balance from start to finish. The spices remind your palate of autumn kitchens, and the nose hints of leather and sumac. This Penfolds Bin 28 Shiraz is sure to please at prices averaging $35. Pairs wonderfully with slow-cooked meats, steak au poivre, burgers, and spicy stews. Try with aged whiskey cheddar, vintage gouda, and gorgonzola cheeses.

And, after you’ve opened the door to fall, you’ll start to venture further into other varietals of Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visiting California Wine Country during autumn crush is a wonderful experience. There are lively fall crush parties and brilliant fall colors. The scent of fermentation hangs in the air and crisp evenings beckon fireside communal gatherings. Cheers!