With autumn approaching, it’s a good time to consider switching up your wine selections. There are a wide variety of wines that perfectly complement the rich and cozy flavors of the season. 

From the earthy aroma of fallen leaves to the comforting scent of spiced dishes, fall is a magical time of year—and choosing the right wine can certainly elevate your experience. We curated this list of the best wines to drink in the fall to help enhance the beauty of the season.

Six Best Fall Wines

1: Pinot Noir

If you like a light-bodied red, then Pinot Noir is the best fall wine for you. Pinot Noir has notes of red berries and a hint of earthiness that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The low tannins make this wine very versatile—it pairs well with a variety of steak cuts, but goes especially well with filet mignon. 

2: Viognier

If you prefer a white wine, the full-bodied Viognier is another top choice for fall. It tastes similar to a Chardonnay, and has a beautiful golden color that perfectly accents the fall palette. Its rich floral aromatics, fruity notes, and touch of spice make it a great autumn wine. Viognier pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, creamy soups, and shellfish. 

3: Chardonnay

You can’t go wrong with a glass of Chardonnay in any season. But the powerfully rich and buttery taste of an oaked Chardonnay can’t be beat in the fall. Oak barrels give this wine its buttery flavor and a hint of autumn spices like vanilla and cloves. It will make you feel all warm and cozy on a crisp autumn day. Chardonnay goes great with creamy pastas, and is generally the best white wine to pair with steak. 

4: Merlot

As the days grow shorter and colder, many people like to reach for a velvety glass of Merlot. It’s similar to a Cabernet Sauvignon, but lighter in body. With its soft tannins, dark fruit flavors of plum and cherry, and sometimes a hint of spice, this red wine resonates with the warmth of fall. Enjoy a fine Merlot along with roasted meats and grilled vegetables for a mouthwatering autumn experience. 

5: Chenin Blanc

Famous for its apple aromas and flavors, Chenin Blanc is a perfect match for autumn lovers. Just like apples can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, this medium-bodied white wine is extremely versatile, and can be paired with a wide range of main courses. Try a glass of Chenin Blanc with a root vegetable salad, roasted chicken, or rich seafood. 

6: Zinfandel

Bold and robust, Zinfandel is always a great winter wine, but it can highlight the vibrancy of fall flavors as well. This robust red wine offers notes of ripe fruit that are often accompanied by hints of black pepper and spice. Zinfandel goes especially well with smoky dishes like barbeque ribs.

Steak & Wine Dinner in Downtown Chandler

Steak and wine are the perfect pairing at any time of year. Whether it’s a crisp fall evening or a hot summer day, make a reservation with DC STEAKHOUSE in Chandler if you want a meal to remember. 

On our menu, we offer a variety of fresh steak cuts made to order, delicious seafood, robust wines, seasonal salads, and more. But tables fill up fast! Please visit dcsteakhouse.com or call us at 480-899-4400 to book a reservation today.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/29/2023). Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash