As we enter October, we should all be excited to experience peak fall weather. Though, as South Floridians know all too well, our region’s version of this beloved time of the year doesn’t quite offer the crisp air and colorful leaves that mark the season elsewhere. But that doesn’t mean we can’t embrace a cozier vibe while at home. Even as warm temperatures and hurricane season lingers, there’s something special about transitioning into autumn, and wine can play a key role in setting the tone.
Despite tropical thunderstorms and dense humidity, the right bottle can evoke the essence of October on any occasion.
COMFORT IN A GLASS
When it comes to a comfy yet refreshing wine for a warm Miami fall, Yalumba’s Samuel’s Collection Eden Valley Viognier is a standout choice. From Australia, this viognier embodies the best of both worlds: rich, aromatic notes that evoke the comfort of autumn, balanced with a crisp freshness that suits Miami’s climate.
This white wine delights with its vibrant bouquet of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle – classic viognier aromas that bring immediate warmth and pleasure. On the palate, it’s beautifully textured with a creamy mouthfeel, yet maintains a lively acidity that keeps it fresh. Subtle hints of ginger and white pepper add a touch of spice, making each sip feel both indulgent and invigorating.
Try this wine with roasted butternut squash, grilled seafood, or a creamy pasta dish. Its richness complements the flavors of fall, while its brightness ensures it remains versatile and easy drinking.
$21.69 at MrDwine.com
A HOMEY CHARDONNAY
(Courtesy of Gary Farrell Winery)
Gary Farrell Winery makes the perfect chardonnay for celebrating a Miami fall.
As the evenings grow slightly cooler (we hope), a glass of Sonoma’s Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2022 can bring the perfect balance of depth and freshness to your fall wine collection. Renowned winery, Gary Farrell, has just the right wine to showcase how a well-crafted Russian River Valley chardonnay can provide that cozy feeling no matter where you enjoy a glass.
Gary Farrell’s Russian River Valley Chardonnay offers a beautifully layered sensory experience, with aromas of ripe pear, apple, and citrus zest accompanied by subtle notes of vanilla and toasted almond. On the palate, it’s lush, showcasing flavors of baked apple, Meyer lemon, and a hint of buttered brioche, all accentuated by a lively acidity that keeps the wine mouth-wateringly balanced, while a touch of oak adds depth without overpowering the fruit.
This chardonnay will pair nicely with a variety of fall dishes like roasted chicken, creamy risottos, or rich seafood pasta. The wine’s smooth texture and bright acidity make it an excellent match for buttery dishes, while its citrus and apple notes can complement lighter fare like grilled fish or roasted vegetables.
$47.99 at Wine.com
ROSE FOR A SUMMERY FALL
Every rosé lover knows that this style of wine truly has no season. Rosé is versatile, especially in Miami, where we can keep drinking it throughout our endless summer.
(Courtesy of Markham Vineyards)
Markham Vineyards Merlot offers coziness in a bottle.
The 2023 Esprit Gassier Rosé by Château Gassier offers a beautiful pale pink hue that matches our fading autumn sunsets. Plentiful aromatics include fresh notes of strawberry, peach, and a hint of citrus blossom. The palate is delicate yet vibrant, with flavors of red berries, grapefruit, and a subtle Provençal minerality that gives the wine a crisp, clean, pour-me-another-glass finish.
This rosé pairs effortlessly with a range of dishes that reflect the lighter side of fall. Think grilled seafood, fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette, or sushi. It’s also perfect as an aperitif to enjoy on a warm October evening.
$24 at Plum Market
A COZY MERLOT
Merlot is the wine of fall. Though often overlooked for other standout California wines, it’s time to start exploring the mastery of this grape by Markham Vineyards in Napa Valley. The 2021 Markham Vineyards Merlot is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy an inviting and approachable red wine, making it ideal for the season.
(Courtesy of Ornellaia)
Enjoy the excellence of Ornellaia this season with this approachable bottle from a legendary producer.
This bottle entices with aromas of blackberry, plum, black cherry, cocoa, vanilla, and a touch of baking spice layered throughout. This is a smooth and plush wine with flavors of juicy black fruits and integrated oak influence. The soft tannins provide a round, luxurious texture for a pleasing drinking experience.
Try this wine with richer dishes like pork tenderloin, lamb chops, or an autumn stew. Merlot is a comforting companion for those tropical rain-filled fall nights.
$23.99 at Total Wine
RED BY CANDLELIGHT
Ornellaia is one of Italy’s most famous producers of a world-renowned icon wine. The Ornellaia Le Volte Dell’Ornellaia, 2022 offers an opportunity to indulge in the Bordeaux-style wines of this legendary winery in a more casual way and without the high price point. Light the candles and enjoy a bottle for the ultimate magical October dinner party at home.
Le Volte dell’Ornellaia delivers a harmonious blend of ripe red fruits, black fruits, and savory cedar and spice on the nose. This is a full-bodied wine with flavors of juicy dark fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and sweet baking spices. With fine tannins and finesse, Ornellaia presents elegance in a glass, and a helpful transition to fall with bold flavors and vibrancy to offer delight at any meal.
Consider complementing this bottle with grilled steaks, braised short rib, or a rich mushroom risotto. Traditional Tuscan dishes can also pair nicely alongside this splendid Italian wine.
$35.10 at MrDWine.com
Cheers to all the ways we can find a taste of fall this season!
Jacqueline Coleman is a wine and travel writer and Star Wine List’s ambassador in Miami. She is also a contributor to Luxury Guide USA magazine, a co-editor of WineGuideMiami. com and a regular guest host on Linda Gassenheimer’s “Food, News & Views” podcast.
Jacqueline Coleman