It’s #WineWednesday again and the last official day of summer. In the Central New York area, we’ve had a spectacular summer with hot, sunny weather. Even today, there is not a cloud in the blue sky and temperatures are soaring to 82. It’s hard to believe it’s the last day of summer but tomorrow, fall begins. Fall brings cooler weather, shorter days and pumpkin spice everything. It’s also time to adjust your wine drinking habits.
In summer, it’s much more enjoyable to drink crisp, cold whites or yummy rose wines and while fall may not require the refreshment that summer does, your taste buds may be craving something a bit bolder, warmer and cozier. Enter the big reds.
Now, I enjoy a good red any time of the year but nothing beats it on a cool, crisp night with a giant bowl of pasta. If you’re not a big red person, ease into it slowly with a lighter red, such as a Pinot Noir from Sonoma County or a Cote du Rhone from France. Both are a bit lighter but still tend to carry a bit of fruitiness that is enjoyable with fall recipes and weather.
And, for the first time you dish up a hearty chili (because you know that’s coming!), I suggest a Zinfandel to balance the fullness and spice.
The best way to find a wine that uses certain grapes is to ask your local wine merchant for recommendations. Be sure to have a budget in mind, as well. The more suggestions you can give, the better. I typically walk in with a budget, a region and a grape and let my merchant be my guide. Happy drinking!