The 10 Best Fall Wines to Embrace the Season
Published: September 17, 2025
Fall is a season of change, with crisp air, colorful leaves, and moments that invite slowing down and savoring the small pleasures. It is the perfect time to enjoy a glass of wine that reflects the warmth and richness of the season. Wines that carry spiced notes, full-bodied flavors, or aromatic complexity bring out the cozy, comforting side of autumn and make every meal or quiet evening better.
These wines are often bold enough to stand up to seasonal dishes yet smooth enough to enjoy on their own. Think of roasted root vegetables, savory stews, rich pasta dishes, or even pumpkin-inspired desserts. Each sip can feel like a little celebration of the season, warming from the inside out. Fall wines create an atmosphere, transforming ordinary moments into memorable experiences. They invite gatherings, slow evenings by the fire, and the simple joy of pairing the perfect glass with the changing scenery outside.
1. Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a white wine that can feel surprisingly cozy in the fall, especially when lightly oaked or richer in style. Its flavors of apple, pear, and subtle citrus mingle with hints of butter, vanilla, or toasted oak, creating a wine that pairs beautifully with the season’s roasted vegetables, creamy pastas, and savory poultry dishes. This versatility makes Chardonnay a dependable choice for fall gatherings, whether it is served alongside a family meal or enjoyed on its own while winding down after a crisp day. Need help finding a good Chardonnay? Check out our blog on the best Chardonnay wines.
Why it feels like fall: The richer, buttery notes of Chardonnay echo the comforting flavors of autumn cooking.
Perfect pairings for fall: Roasted squash, creamy chicken dishes, or butternut squash risotto.
2. Riesling
Riesling is a white grape originally from Germany, where it has been cherished for centuries, but it is now grown in wine regions all over the world. It is one of the most versatile wines you can find, ranging from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. What makes Riesling especially beginner-friendly is its vibrant fruit flavors and refreshing acidity, which often gives it a lively, zesty feel.
For new wine drinkers, Riesling is a great choice because it can meet you wherever your preferences are. If you like crisp and refreshing wines, a dry Riesling will deliver notes of green apple, lime, and citrus. If you enjoy something a little sweeter, off-dry versions offer flavors like peach, apricot, and honey that balance beautifully with the wine’s natural acidity. No matter which style you try, Riesling has a brightness that keeps it fresh and easy to enjoy.
Tips for enjoying Riesling:
- Expect flavors like lime, green apple, peach, apricot, or honey, depending on style
- Dry versions are crisp and refreshing, while off-dry or sweet versions are fruitier and richer
- Great with spicy foods, Asian dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own
3. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir has a way of capturing the cozy spirit of fall. With its silky texture, bright red fruit flavors, and subtle earthiness, it feels perfectly at home as the air turns crisp. This is a wine that brings comfort without weight, making it just as enjoyable with a hearty dinner as it is while lingering over good conversation. Its balance of freshness and warmth is what makes Pinot Noir such a timeless choice when the season shifts toward cooler evenings and richer meals. Check out our guide to the best Pinot Noir to find your next favorite!
Why it feels like fall: Its earthy undertones and touch of spice echo the flavors of the season.
Perfect pairings for fall: Mushroom risotto, roasted root vegetables, or a simple herb-crusted chicken.
4. Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red that perfectly matches the richness of fall. Its deep flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry are often layered with subtle hints of oak, vanilla, or spice, giving it a structure that pairs beautifully with the season’s heartier meals. This is a wine that can stand up to roasted meats, braised dishes, or bold cheeses, yet it also offers a comforting depth for sipping by itself on a crisp evening. Its firm tannins and layered flavors make it ideal for sharing around the table when cooler weather calls for more substantial, satisfying wines. Learn more: Read our guide to the best Cabernet Sauvignon wine.
Why it feels like fall: The dark fruit, soft tannins, and hints of spice mirror the warmth and richness of seasonal cooking.
Perfect pairings for fall: Roasted beef, lamb stew, or aged cheddar cheese.
5. Merlot
Merlot is a smooth, medium-bodied red that brings a welcoming richness to fall evenings. Its plush flavors of plum, cherry, and subtle chocolate notes create a sense of warmth without feeling heavy. This approachable red pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonal dishes, from roasted poultry to hearty pastas, making it a versatile choice for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Its soft tannins and round mouthfeel make each sip inviting, perfect for unwinding as the temperatures drop and comfort foods start appearing on the table. Continue learning: Read our guide to the best Merlot wines.
Why it feels like fall: Its juicy fruit flavors and gentle texture echo the cozy, indulgent flavors of the season.
Perfect pairings for fall: Roast chicken, turkey with herbs, or mushroom risotto.
6. Zinfandel
Zinfandel bursts with bold fruit flavors and a natural spice that feels especially fitting when fall meals get heartier. Its ripe notes of blackberry and plum are balanced by a peppery kick that stands up beautifully to roasted meats, stews, or anything slow-cooked and full of flavor. There’s a richness here that makes every sip feel generous and inviting, perfect for evenings that call for cozy food and good company.
Why it feels like fall: The combination of dark fruit and spice echoes the comfort and depth of seasonal cooking.
Perfect pairings for fall: Braised short ribs, roasted lamb, or a smoky chili.
7. Syrah/Shiraz
Syrah is a bold red wine that carries a richness perfectly suited for fall. Its dark fruit flavors, ranging from blackberry to plum, are complemented by a touch of pepper and subtle smoky notes that give the wine depth and character. This is a wine that stands up beautifully to the heartier flavors of the season, whether it is roasted meats, savory casseroles, or dishes infused with autumn spices. Each sip delivers warmth and complexity without feeling heavy, making Syrah a wine that can anchor a meal or simply be enjoyed by the fire. Its expressive character and full-bodied style make it a favorite for cozy evenings and gatherings when the air turns crisp and the season’s flavors come alive.
Why it feels like fall: Its peppery spice and dark fruit give a sense of warmth that complements the season’s heartier meals.
Perfect pairings for fall: Roasted duck, pepper-crusted beef, or a mushroom and sausage tart.
8. Red Blend
Red Blends bring together the best qualities of multiple red varietals, creating wines that are smooth, balanced, and layered with flavor. These wines often combine dark fruit, subtle spice, and soft tannins, making them versatile companions for the season’s heartier meals. Their approachable nature makes Red Blends perfect for gatherings, whether it is a casual dinner with friends or a festive fall celebration. Each sip offers richness without heaviness, reflecting the comforting yet lively spirit of fall.
Why it feels like fall: The blend of fruit, spice, and soft tannins mirrors the season’s cozy, layered flavors.
Perfect pairings for fall: Roast beef, braised lamb, or a mushroom and sausage casserole.
9. Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a medium-bodied red that brings a subtle, herbaceous edge to fall wine selections. Its flavors of red cherry, raspberry, and hints of green pepper or herbs give it a bright, layered character that pairs beautifully with roasted or braised dishes. Unlike heavier reds, Cabernet Franc has a freshness and finesse that makes it versatile for a range of fall meals, from savory stews to roasted vegetables, offering complexity without overwhelming the palate.
Why it feels like fall: The combination of red fruit and herbal notes mirrors the season’s earthy, comforting flavors.
Perfect pairings for fall: Braised short ribs, roasted vegetable medleys, or herb-seasoned poultry.
10. Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine is not just for celebrations—it brings a refreshing brightness to fall sipping. The crisp bubbles and lively acidity make it perfect for cutting through richer seasonal foods like creamy cheeses or roasted vegetables. Sparkling wines also pair beautifully with fall desserts, adding a light, effervescent contrast to caramel, pumpkin, or apple flavors. Whether enjoyed with a cheese board at a small gathering or as a festive accompaniment to a cozy meal, bubbles bring a playful, refreshing element to the season.
Why it feels like fall: The crisp, lively character of sparkling wines balances the richer flavors of the season.
Perfect pairings for fall: Cheese boards, roasted vegetables, or spiced autumn desserts.
Bringing Cozy Flavors to Your Table
Fall is the perfect time to explore wines that feel warm, cozy, and full of seasonal flavor. From the bright, earthy charm of Pinot Noir to the bold richness of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, each varietal brings something special to the table. Whites like Chardonnay and Riesling balance heartier dishes, while Red Blends and Cabernet Franc offer layered complexity for gatherings. Sparkling wine or Prosecco adds a lively, festive touch to desserts or cheese boards, making every fall moment a little more memorable.
All of these wines and many more are available at yourwinestore.com. You can buy wine online quickly and easily, enjoying the convenience of the best online wine store and having your favorite fall wines delivered straight to your door.