Wines that take you from Summer to Fall

Small production wines that will leave you pining for falling leaves and shorter days

I’m happy to trade days spent sipping wine by the pool and fall into wines that are crisp and light porch pounders. For us true wine lovers, what could be better?

However, just because the weather changes doesn’t mean you have to radically alter your favorite varieties you sip all summer. Instead, ease your way into fall and into deeper, bolder flavor profiles as the temperature continues to drop. Check out some wines that will have you pining for falling leaves and shorter days.

 

Pinot Noir

Yes, this is an obvious choice, but any fall wine list would only be complete with Pinot Noir. This light red traditionally has soft tannins and mild acidity and is the epitome of a transitional wine to take you from a hot to cool climate. Those soft tannins make Pinots great to drink young without much aging required. Some of the best Pinots in the world are made just off the coastlines of California and Oregon due to the cooling breezes from the Pacific Ocean, giving these regions a perfect climate for growing the varietal. Many Pinot Noirs from these regions tend to have bolder tannins and a fuller body, making this variety ideal for cellar aging. With light fruity profiles of cherry, raspberry, and plum, these wines are still light and sweet enough to remind you of summer’s cool white wines and rosés. Then add hints of clove, allspice, vanilla, earth, mushroom, and light smoke accents, and you are getting into the autumn spirit! 

 

Syrah

Syrah, a native French grape of the Rhône Valley, grows abundantly in Washington state. Thanks to the temperature and different terroirs , Washington Syrah brings out some of the most varied expressions of the grape around the world. You will pick up its plum fruitiness with notes of herb and tobacco. These medium-bodied wines are an excellent transition to cooler days while grilling out on the weekends.  

 

Sparkling Wine

Just because summer is gone doesn’t mean the bubbles have to be! Oregon has been making waves in the sparkling wine industry. Many producers use Méthode Champenoise, the traditional way of making sparkling wine in the Champagne region. The Willamette Valley is known for Pinot Noir, one of the three grapes used to make Champagne, adding body and structure to these spectacular wines. Now, make a toast to cooler weather, football games, apple picking, or the kids being back in school!

 

Chardonnay

While red wines tend to dominate the fall season, several white wine varietals stand up to any red in bold, comforting flavors. Chardonnays from Oregon, while lesser-known, are a great option for your fall palate. These wines tend to have an old-world flavor profile compared to California Chardonnay. Oregon Chardonnays can be spicy, with hints of minerality and fresh acidity. Depending on where in Oregon they hail from, you may pick up on green fruit or more tropical fruits.