September 22 may be the official “first day of autumn,” but as soon as the weather begins to cool, it’s time to gather all the cozy things of the season. From sweaters, light jackets and the occasional umbrella to comfort foods, fuzzy slippers and pumpkin spice (sorry, I had to do that…), I’ll be ready. As for my wines of choice, it’s obvious to anyone reading the articles on this site that I love quality, well priced choices that pair beautifully with the foods on the table or hold their own when sipped solo. That’s especially true in autumn when the fire pit beckons!
Many wine lovers change their wine selections based on the season, but not me. Sparkling wine is delicious any time – I just opened a sparkling Albarino from Rias Baixas last night. A solid white wine with breadth and depth and a flavorful red wine with balance and weight are extraordinary with fall foods bursting with herbs and spice notes. And rose wines? There is always a bottle or two chilling in the fridge no matter the time of the year.
Now, it’s time to get ready for Autumn sipping. Enjoy five of my favorite rosé wines (sent as samples) to sip and savor with a scrumptious fall menu, by the fire pit, or under a blanket watching your latest Netflix binge.
La Petite Perriere Rosé of Pinot Noir 2023 ($16) is a delightful wine with delicate notes of raspberries, rose petals and cherries on the nose. Minerality, florals and fruit are dominant on the palate as well as vibrant acidity. Pour this wine to accompany a homemade Four Seasons Pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, olives and ham and savor every sip. Find the recipe HERE.
From the hills of Lake Garda in northern Italy, Bertani Velante Bertarose 2023 ($19) is a blend of Corvina, Molinara, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes. Tart berries, dried leaves and spice aromas lead to more of the same on the palate along with bright acidity, structure and a lasting finish. Enjoy a few pours with Creamy Tomato-Basil Soup and a gooey grilled cheese sandwich after the children return from trick-or-treating. Find the soup recipe HERE.
Of Grenache Noir, Syrah, Cinsault and Rolle, Matilde Chapoutier Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire 2023 ($20) is a textural happening with grapes from vineyards east of Aix-en-Provence. Rich aromas and flavors of red berries, minerality and a freshness to remember, its crisp, snappy finish complement Mediterranean-Style Garlic Shrimp. The recipe is HERE.
This beauty from the Rhone Valley is a blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. M. Chapoutier Belleruche Rosé Cotes-du-Rhone 2023 ($20) boasts aromas of fresh red fruit, grapefruit, nectarine and mango. On the palate, I found a fruit forward wine with lovely acidity and flavors that will complement Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers and Olives on a cool autumn night. Grab the recipe HERE.
From 100% Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine made in the traditional method offered aromas and flavors of wild cherries, strawberries, and crushed raspberries. Well balanced with a creamy texture, dancing bubbles and fresh, lingering finish, Lucien Albrecht Cremant d’Alsace Brut Rosé ($30) should be a staple in anyone’s wine collection. Elevate a Hearty Root Vegetable Soup and crusty baguette with generous pours of this brilliant sparkling! Click HERE for the recipe.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences, your free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” and a coupon code towards your purchase of my online course “Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro!)” click here.
