As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, it’s the perfect time to find a red wine that adds warmth to those cosier evenings. Whether you’re snuggling up by the fire, tucking into heartier meals, or hosting friends for an autumn gathering, the right red wine can add that magic autumn glow. But here’s the twist—autumn wines aren’t quite as intense as winter reds, and they’re more substantial than summer’s lighter styles. So, what are the best red wine grapes to enjoy in this transitional season? Here are a few grape varieties that are bound to make your autumn extra special, plus a perfect food pairing for each to help you savour the season.
Pinot Noir – The Versatile Classic
If there’s a grape that knows how to charm in any season, it’s Pinot Noir. Known for its light to medium body and juicy red berry flavours—think cherry, strawberry, and a hint of earthy mushrooms—Pinot Noir is elegant yet comforting. It offers a refreshing acidity that balances beautifully with autumn’s transitional dishes. Unlike robust winter reds, Pinot Noir is subtly spiced and slightly lighter, so it doesn’t overwhelm the senses.
In the summer, you might opt for a Pinot Noir with a little chill, but in autumn, try it at room temperature to allow its flavours to fully unfold. Look for Pinot Noirs from Burgundy, France, or Willamette Valley, Oregon for a taste of pure elegance.
Food Pairing: Roasted duck breast with a berry sauce or a mushroom risotto. The earthiness in the Pinot Noir beautifully complements the richness of both dishes, creating a meal you won’t forget.
Tempranillo – Spanish Warmth for Cooler Days
Tempranillo is like the warm, rustic blanket of the wine world. Hailing from Spain, it brings a delightful mix of ripe plum, cherry, and fig flavours with a subtle hint of smoke and leather. In autumn, a glass of Tempranillo has just the right depth and warmth to complement the season’s cooling temperatures.
Tempranillo is slightly more intense than your summer wines but isn’t as heavy as the bold reds we reach for in winter. With moderate tannins, it’s smooth enough for drinking by itself, yet it also pairs well with heartier autumn dishes. For a Spanish experience, try a Rioja or Ribera del Duero Tempranillo—both known for their balance of fruit and earthy spices.
Food Pairing: Chorizo-stuffed peppers or a rich lamb stew. The smoky depth of Tempranillo is ideal with dishes that have a bit of spice, creating a comforting meal with a hint of excitement.
Gamay – Light, Fruity, and Perfectly Autumnal
If you’re looking for something light yet engaging, Gamay is an underrated choice for the autumn season. Originating from Beaujolais, France, Gamay has a lively personality with red fruit notes like raspberry and cranberry, making it perfect for the season. With low tannins and high acidity, it’s playful yet satisfying—a fantastic choice for those who want a fruit-forward wine that’s a bit richer than a summer rosé.
In summer, Gamay is often served slightly chilled, but in autumn, let it sit at room temperature to enhance its delicate spiciness. It’s perfect for both solo sipping and as a meal companion, bringing a fresh feel to autumn’s heavier meals without overpowering them.
Food Pairing: Roast pork with apple and sage or a charcuterie board with autumn fruits and cheeses. Gamay’s light body pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savoury aspects of roast pork or a grazing board, offering a refreshing yet warming sip.
Grenache – The Bold yet Smooth Charmer
For a wine with a bit more body and richness, Grenache is your go-to. Known for its juicy red fruit and subtle spice, Grenache often brings out notes of strawberry, plum, and white pepper. It has a warmth to it without reaching the full-bodied boldness of a winter wine, making it a perfect choice for when you want something a bit more substantial as the days get colder.
Grenache-based wines from Southern Rhône, Spain, or Australia are fantastic choices, as they’re often blended with a touch of Syrah or Mourvèdre, adding depth without overwhelming.
Food Pairing: Hearty beef stew or roasted root vegetables. Grenache’s fruitiness and peppery notes bring out the savoury flavours in these dishes, creating a cosy autumn feast that will warm you up from the inside out.
Merlot – Smooth, Rich, and Ready for Autumn
It’s hard to go wrong with Merlot when looking for a wine that bridges the gap between summer’s light reds and winter’s robust choices. Merlot is known for its soft tannins, velvety texture, and flavours of black cherry, plum, and chocolate. It has enough body to be satisfying on chilly days but won’t overpower lighter autumn dishes.
Whether you choose a Merlot from Bordeaux or California, this is a wine that exudes comfort and ease. It’s a reliable choice that’s bound to please a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening in.
Food Pairing: Roast chicken with rosemary or mushroom-based dishes. Merlot’s smooth richness complements these earthy, comforting flavours, creating a balanced meal that’s hearty yet not too heavy.
Embrace the Autumn Cosiness with the Right Wine
Each of these red wines offers something unique to the autumn experience, from the delicate elegance of Pinot Noir to the rustic charm of Tempranillo. So, grab your cosiest blanket, light a candle, and let the perfect autumn red wine keep you warm as the nights grow longer. The transition from summer to winter never tasted so good! Cheers!