Fall in a Glass (or 2)
The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisper, the days are getting shorter... This just means it's time to re/introduce some delicious new options into your bevvie repertoire. There’s no time like the present to get adventurous - hope you enjoy my recommendations!
Reds
I’m sure I don’t have to convince you here. Red wines and colder weather go hand in hand - so take a peek at a couple suggestions below to help you veer from your comfort zone next time you’re at the wine store.
Shiraz - Australia’s take on the French grape Syrah, I equate Shiraz’s with roaring fireplaces, cosy blankets and warm hugs on cold days. This is the epitome of a winter red in my opinion - with juicy berry flavours and comforting oak aromas. Look for one from Barossa Valley, Australia and you won’t be disappointed!
Zinfandel/Primitivo - Believe it or not, zinfandel and primitivo are actually the same grape. In Italy, it’s just called Primitivo whereas in California, it’s called Zinfandel. I love this grape when I’m looking for that Cab Sauv feel but not in a Cab Sauv. It’s rich blackberry notes and smoke/tobacco aromas make this a super comforting glass to sip before, during or after a hearty dinner. I like having zinfandel with dark chocolate for dessert - so decadent!
Whites
Now I know what you’re thinking - white wine and cold weather? How about nope? Well my counter argument here is that there are so many fuller bodied, comforting white wines - you really don’t know what you’re missing if you’ve been avoiding this style of wine in the winter.
Chardonnay - The trick with Chardonnay is that you have to pick the right style for your preference - this is a grape that can be sparkling, crisp and fresh, rich and round, and everything in between. During the colder months, I find myself reaching for the richer versions of this grape - but not the super oaky California ones you might be thinking of. I’ve actually found that Australian and New Zealand Chardonnays really have that happy balance that makes my palate sing. They’re not expensive either, so give one a try and tell me what you think!
Viognier - This might be a varietal that you haven’t heard of, but let me tell you that it is basically grown all over the world even though it originates from France (so many grapes do). We have Niagara Viognier if you want to stay local, but I like trying the different styles from different countries - some of my fave versions hail from South America, South Africa and Australia. It’s also pretty easy to find Viognier in a blend as it’s commonly used to add roundness and mellow out acidity in a wine. If you are interested in trying 100% Viognier, next time you’re at the wine shop, go to the France section and seek out a Condrieu (this appellation only allows Viognier).
Mocktail Recipe
Nothing screams fall like apple cider, so I wanted to share this Apple Cider Mocktail recipe for days when you don’t feel like wine or just want something that’s reminiscent of your childhood. It’s pretty simple to make and you should have all the components on hand.
INGREDIENTS
Spicy Simple Syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 cinnamon sticks
1-2 inches ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
The Mocktail
2 tablespoons cinnamon-ginger simple syrup, chilled
1 cup apple cider, chilled
ice for mixing
cinnamon sugar, for rimming the glass
apple slice or cinnamon stick to garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Spicy Simple Syrup
Mix sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, and sliced ginger root in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat until sugar is dissolved. Let it cool completely. When cooled, strain to remove ginger and cinnamon sticks.
The Mocktail
Pour cinnamon sugar into a shallow bowl or plate. Prepare martini glass by wetting the rim with apple cider and then dipping in cinnamon sugar.
Add ice to a martini shaker. Pour in cider and simple syrup. Shake for 10 to 15 seconds.
Pour into the rimmed glass and garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.