Wine Me Up! Wine in October
October is a perfect month for transitioning to richer, more robust wines as the weather cools and hearty comfort foods come into season. I have compiled my Somm list of must-have red and white wines.
Red Wines
- Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied red is a classic choice for fall, with notes of dark fruits, oak, tobacco, and spice. It pairs well with hot-off-the-grill red meat.
- Merlot: Offering plum, cherry, and chocolate notes, Merlot is a versatile choice that can complement a range of dishes like roasted meats, mushrooms, and root vegetables.
- Pinot Noir: This elegant red offers a lighter body and earthy aromas with hints of cherry, cranberry, and mushroom. It pairs beautifully with roasted poultry and creamy pasta dishes.
- Syrah/Shiraz: With bold, peppery flavors of blackberries, plums, and spices, Syrah is nice for chilly evenings. It pairs well with lamb, beef stew, or grilled sausages.
- Zinfandel: Bold and spicy, Zinfandel is a great companion for hearty dishes like beef stew and chili.
White Wines
- Chardonnay: A full-bodied Chardonnay, especially one with oak aging, presents notes of butter, apple, pear, and sometimes tropical fruits. It pairs well with roasted chicken, creamy soups and seafood.
- Viognier: This aromatic white offers floral notes and hints of stone fruit. Its fuller body makes it a good match for fall flavors, such as roasted poultry or cream-based soups.
- Sauvignon Blanc: While often associated with summer, Sauvignon Blanc can still be enjoyed in the fall, especially with lighter dishes. Its crisp, refreshing profile with notes of citrus and tropical fruits pairs well with squash soup, shrimp stir-fry, or herb-roasted vegetables.
- Riesling: A slightly off-dry Riesling can be an excellent choice for fall. It pairs well with spicy chili and glazed ham.
Wine Cocktail of the month: Pomegranate Cider Mimosa w/Salted Caramel Rim
Ingredients:
Salted caramel sauce for the rim
1 750ml Chilled Champagne
1/3 cup pomegranate juice
1/3 cup apple cider
Instructions: Rim each champagne flute with a small teaspoon of salted caramel
Add an ounce of pomegranate juice to the bottom of the flute. Add an ounce of apple cider. Fill it with champagne and serve!!
Log onto www.flightsbites.com and sign up for Wine/Dine Daily. We offer fabulous wines that will pour perfectly with the fall and winter months ahead. Each month we offer exclusive discounts/free delivery for Kelly Plantation residents.
Cheers to October!
Bob