5 Fun Wine Pairings to Try This Fall
As the crisp autumn air rolls in, it’s the perfect time to switch up your wine pairings and embrace the flavors of fall. This season, why not take it a step further by exploring recipes created by talented Black chefs?
These dishes not only highlight seasonal ingredients but also showcase the creativity and diverse culinary backgrounds of these chefs.
Here are five fun wine pairings that will elevate your autumn dining experience, with recipes from Black chefs to make every sip and bite memorable. 🥮
1. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup + Chardonnay
Nothing says fall like a warm bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. The rich, creamy texture of the soup pairs beautifully with a buttery, oaky Chardonnay. For a twist, try Chef Carla Hall’s take on butternut squash soup, which brings warm Southern spices to the dish. You can also explore a 🌱 plant-based version by Chef Bryant Terry, known for his flavorful, fresh, and seasonal ingredients.
Why it works:
The creamy texture of both the wine and the soup creates a velvety harmony, while the wine’s acidity balances the sweetness.
Recipe Recommendations
Chef Carla Hall: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=533290512406038&id=468584342209989
2. Grilled Pork Chops + Pinot Noir
For a heartier dish, grilled pork chops seasoned with rosemary or thyme pair wonderfully with a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Chef G. Garvin brings bold Southern seasoning to his grilled pork chops, making them the perfect complement to a glass of Pinot Noir. His focus on classic but elevated flavors ensures a memorable pairing.
Why it works:
Pinot Noir’s earthiness matches the herbs, while its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the pork, leaving a balanced, satisfying finish.
Recipe Recommendations
Chef G. Garvin: https://www.chefgarvin.com/content/44453/smothered-pork-chops
3. Pumpkin Pie + Late Harvest Riesling
Pumpkin pie is an autumn dessert staple, and there’s no better match than a sweet, late-harvest Riesling. Chef Jocelyn Delk Adams of Grandbaby Cakes offers a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, with recipes that are both comforting and innovative. The wine’s sweetness enhances the spices in the pie, while its acidity keeps the pairing from becoming too heavy.
Why it works:
The delicate sweetness of the Riesling mirrors the pie’s sugar, while the wine’s vibrant acidity keeps the pairing light and fresh.
Recipe Recommendations
Chef Jocelyn Delk Adams:
https://grandbaby-cakes.com/pumpkin-pie/
4. Mushroom Risotto + Merlot
Mushrooms are in season during the fall, making a mushroom risotto the perfect dish to serve with a smooth, medium-bodied Merlot. Chef Kwame Onwuachi, known for combining Caribbean and Nigerian flavors, elevates a classic mushroom risotto by adding depth and layers to its earthiness. His use of global influences takes this pairing to the next level
Why it works:
Merlot’s fruit-forward flavors provide a delicious contrast to the savory mushrooms, and the wine’s subtle tannins complement the richness of the risotto.
Recipe Recommendations
Kwame Onwuachi:
https://www.centralmarket.com/recipes/mushroom-and-spinach-risotto
5. Apple Crisp + Gewürztraminer
The sweet and spiced flavors of apple crisp pair excellently with a slightly sweet Gewürztraminer. Chef Tanya Holland of Brown Sugar Kitchen uses warm, comforting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg in her version of apple crisp. Her soulful approach to desserts pairs perfectly with the floral and fruity notes of Gewürztraminer.
Why it works:
Gewürztraminer’s natural sweetness and spice make it a delightful partner for warm, spiced fall desserts like apple crisp.
Recipe Recommendations
Chef Tanya Holland:
https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/granny-smith-apple-crisp
With these wine pairings, you can take your fall meals to the next level. Whether you’re serving a savory main dish or a sweet treat, there’s a wine out there that will complement the seasonal flavors. So, grab your favorite fall dish, pour a glass of wine, and toast to the season of warmth, comfort, and delicious food!
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