How to Pick Out the Perfect Fall Wines and What to Pair Them With

Summer is all about the fun cocktails and drinking outside, preferably by a body of water. But there is something so elegant about a crisp glass of wine on a slightly cool early fall evening (plus you need something to comfort you as the days get darker earlier.) But we could all use a few pointers when it comes to picking the perfect fall wine. Anyone can select a good pie, but wine takes some skill. Here are a few tips for picking out the best wines for fall 2024. 

1. Signature Fall Cocktail: Avaline Cambrusco Spritz

Avaline, the organic and vegan-friendly wine brand co-founded by Cameron Diaz, introduces a limited-edition Lambrusco that’s perfect for the transition from summer to fall. 

Tasting Notes: Fruity and fizzy with a vibrant character that pairs well with the refreshing pomegranate-cranberry juice in the cocktail.

Cocktail Recipe:Avaline Cambrusco Spritz

  • Ingredients:
    1. 2 oz Avaline Lambrusco
    2. 2 oz 100% Pomegranate-Cranberry Juice
    3. Sparkling Water
    4. Lemon
    5. Garnish: 1-3 Maraschino Cherries
  • Method:
    1. In a tall glass, add ice.
    2. Pour in Lambrusco and pomegranate-cranberry juice.
    3. Top with sparkling water.
    4. Add a squeeze of lemon.
    5. Garnish with maraschino cherries.

2. Crisp and Refreshing Whites

Avaline Sauvignon Blanc ($26)

  • Why Cool: Known for its organic, transparent, and vegan-friendly qualities, Avaline’s Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp choice for fall.
  • Tasting Notes: Fresh with notes of lime, pink grapefruit, and rose petals. It’s light and well-balanced with a zesty finish.
  • Pairing: Ideal with light appetizers or seafood dishes.

Banfi Princessa Gavia Gavi DOCG ($16.99)

  • Why Cool: Banfi’s commitment to sustainable practices shines in this refreshing white.
  • Tasting Notes: Offers intense flavors of pineapple and green apple with a well-balanced, dry finish.
  • Pairing: Great with hors d’oeuvres and seafood.

Donnafugata Lighea 2023 ($24.99)

  • Why Cool: Family-owned winery known for authentic and sustainable winemaking.
  • Tasting Notes: Aromatic with notes of orange blossom, citrus, and lychee. Fresh and mineral on the palate.
  • Pairing: Excellent with Mediterranean dishes and seafood.

3. Versatile and Flavorful Reds

Avaline Pinot Noir ($30)

  • Why Cool: Avaline’s first Pinot Noir from California, showcasing light-bodied elegance.
  • Tasting Notes: Roasted strawberries and wild plum with a versatile profile.
  • Pairing: Pairs beautifully with pesto pasta and other savory dishes.

Donnafugata Sul Vulcano – Etna Rosso DOC ($35)

  • Why Cool: A wine from the volcanic soils of Mount Etna with a distinctive character.
  • Tasting Notes: Elegant with red fruits, balsamic mint, and white pepper.
  • Pairing: Ideal with Mediterranean dishes, meat, and hearty stews.

5. Unique and Rich Whites

Halter Ranch 2023 Heida ($60)

  • Why Cool: The only Heida wine in California, made from organic grapes.
  • Tasting Notes: Aromas of pineapple and jasmine with flavors of Meyer lemon and peach.
  • Pairing: Versatile for various culinary pairings.

Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast 2023 Chardonnay ($25)

  • Why Cool: A classic Chardonnay from a respected winemaker with a focus on sustainability.
  • Tasting Notes: Rich with flavors of ripe pear, apple, and a hint of caramel.
  • Pairing: Complements a range of dishes from roasted chicken to creamy pasta.
Meredith Lepore

Meredith is the former editor in chief of the women's career site, The Grindstone. Her work has appeared in Marie Claire @ Work, The Jane Dough, DailyWorth, SheKnows.com, Business Insider and Learnvest. She earned her Masters in Magazine, Newspaper and Online journalism from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Meredith resides in New York full time and enjoys reading, jogging, SoulCycle and playing with her small dog, Otis.