The holidays are approaching and it finally feels like fall! Summer seemed to last forever and for those of you like myself who are fans of the cooler months, this weather transition has been long awaited. It’s finally time to pull out the shawls, uncover the fire pits, and break out all your favorite fall wines. This year I have a new roundup, mostly with reds of course, but some whites and a fun bubbly in the mix too. I also threw in some snacks this time that are perfect to pair with these wines to give as creative culinary inspired gifts to enjoy while you sip!

Fiol Prosecco-A lively and fresh Prosecco with aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus blossom. On the palate, crisp flavors of ripe pear, lemon zest, and white flowers are highlighted by a fine, refreshing bubble and a delicate, fruity finish. This is a perfect sparkling wine to break out for any occasion such as pizza night, Friendsgiving, and just because it’s a weeknight! $21.99

2022 Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay- This elegant Chardonnay offers aromas of ripe pear, peach, and tropical fruits, layered with vanilla and toasty oak. The palate is rich and creamy with flavors of baked apple, pineapple, and butterscotch, balanced by a refreshing acidity and a long, smooth finish. This is a wine I always have out during the holidays because someone always wants a chardonnay, and I am picky about which ones I drink, so Beringer is a go-to for me because of it’s beauty and consistency! $50

Minuty Prestige Rosé- An elegant and refreshing rosé from Provence, Minuty Prestige offers a delicate bouquet of wild strawberries, white peach, and citrus zest, with a hint of floral and herbal undertones. On the palate, it’s crisp and vibrant, with flavors of red berries, grapefruit, and a subtle salinity that adds complexity. Its light body and refreshing acidity make it perfect for sipping on warm afternoons or pairing with light dishes such as seafood, salads, and Mediterranean fare. A go-to wine for celebrations and gatherings with a refined yet approachable charm. $29.99

2022 Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir- From the famed Marlborough region of New Zealand, this Pinot Noir is both elegant and vibrant. It opens with aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, and a touch of earthiness, accompanied by hints of spice and floral notes. On the palate, it’s silky and balanced, with juicy red fruit flavors, subtle oak, and well-integrated tannins. A bright acidity keeps it refreshing, while its complexity allows it to pair beautifully with roasted poultry, mushroom dishes, or charcuterie boards. $46.98

2021 Dutcher Crossing Maboroshi Reserve Pinot Noir- This limited reserve Pinot Noir offers depth and richness with a refined balance of fruit and earth. Aromas of ripe black cherry, raspberry, and a hint of forest floor are complemented by nuances of clove and vanilla from oak aging. The palate is layered and smooth, with dark berry flavors, spice, and a touch of minerality. Velvety tannins and a bright acidity provide a structured, elegant finish. Ideal for pairing with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or holiday feasts where a sophisticated, fuller-bodied Pinot Noir shines. $57

2021 Robert Mondavi Winery, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon- Bold and expressive, this Cabernet opens with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and a hint of mocha. The palate is layered with flavors of dark plum, black cherry, and cocoa, framed by firm tannins and a touch of vanilla oak that leads to a lingering, refined finish. This wine always hits the spot, especially when I am making a nice steak dinner or cooking a delicious fall stew. This wine is so smooth and comforting it deserves all your favorite fall and winter foods! $50

Suggested Pairing with any of these wines: Riedel Pinot Noir/Nebbiolo Glasses– These elegantly designed glasses are crafted to enhance the delicate aromas and nuanced flavors of Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo wines. The large, tulip-shaped bowl allows the wine to breathe, emphasizing the vibrant fruit and floral notes, while the narrow rim focuses the bouquet and balances the acidity. Perfect for highlighting the complexity of lighter-bodied red wines, these glasses offer an elevated tasting experience.-  $89

2021 Franciscan Estate Cabernet Sauvignon– This one is what I like to call “Cheap and cheerful” since it’s under $20 a bottle. It’s bold with nice notes of black tea, chocolate, and black plum with great length and an easy to drink feeling. It’s ideal to bring to a Thanksgiving if you know there will be a crowd with a lot of different beverages being offered, it’s something everyone will love. With this wine, think fall flavors and fall foods and you will love this wine! $18.99

2021 Rombauer Vineyards Zinfandel- One of my favorite Zinfandels to enjoy throughout the holiday season! This wine is beautifully smooth and inviting, with a rich profile of lush red berries, black cherry, and ripe plum. It has a decadent layer of warm spices—think cinnamon, clove, and vanilla—that mingle with flavors of cooked jammy fruit, creating a comforting and bold character. Despite its lusciousness, the wine maintains excellent structure with firm tannins and balanced acidity, giving it a solid backbone that stands up to hearty holiday dishes while still offering a long, velvety finish. Perfect for cozy gatherings and festive feasts! $38

2022 J Vineyards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir- Aromas of ripe cherries, strawberries, and a hint of rose petals mingle with notes of baking spice. The palate is elegant with layers of red fruit, soft tannins, and a balanced acidity that leads to a smooth, lingering finish. Ideal for the fall season, this is my go-to wine for takeout nights by the fire pit! $47

2021 Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon- Rich and bold, this wine opens with aromas of dark berries, plum, and black currant. On the palate, flavors of blackberry, mocha, and a touch of vanilla are supported by firm tannins, offering a structured and powerful finish. This wine is really great if you want to curl up by the fire with some of those viral savory s’mores, or perhaps you are making a prime rib or short ribs, something delicious and cozy to pair with this wine!  $36

2021 Etude Pinot Noir, Carneros– Bright and fruit-forward, this Pinot Noir showcases red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry on the nose with subtle earthy undertones. The palate is soft and silky, with notes of baking spice and a refreshing acidity that leads to a balanced finish. Etude is one of those wineries always featured on my roundups because honestly I could drink them all the time. I love this winery, and had the pleasure of meeting the winemaker in NYC a few years ago. This is a wine I will always have at my Thanksgiving table or when family is around.  $55

2021 Louis M Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon- Dark and intense, this wine features aromas of black cherry, cassis, and dark chocolate. The palate is rich and structured, with layers of blackberry, vanilla, and hints of toasted oak, balanced by smooth tannins. This cabernet is perfect for gift giving and pairing all the wonderful flavors of fall with. This is my wine of choice for holiday soiree’s, gifting the host/hostess, as well as pairing with that perfect holiday Duck or Prime Rib! $55

2020 Tenuta Trerose Salterio Rosso di Montepulciano– This Italian red bursts with aromas of black cherry, plum, and violet. On the palate, flavors of ripe berries, leather, and spice are framed by velvety tannins and a well-rounded finish with a touch of minerality. This wine is smooth and delicious and ideal for warm dishes inspired by Italy such as Wild Boar Ragu, Pumpkin Risotto, and even Lasagna made with fresh pasta layers.  $19.99

2021 Planeta La Segreta Nero D’Avola– Aromas of ripe red fruit, cherries, and blackberries blend with herbal and earthy undertones. The palate is juicy and lively, with balanced tannins and vibrant acidity, showcasing notes of red currant, plum, and a hint of spice. Planeta is another one of those wineries who will always be a staple, whenever I am searching for something very “old world” and consistent. They deliver high quality, long finishes, and delicious wines! $21.99

2020 Stags Leap Petite Sirah– This bold and expressive Petite Sirah from Stags Leap is a powerhouse of flavor, perfect for winter or holiday meals. It delivers intense aromas of blueberry, black cherry, and a touch of lavender, with layers of dark chocolate and baking spices. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and lush, with dense flavors of blackberry jam, plum, and peppery spice. The firm tannins and balanced acidity provide structure, giving this wine a bold yet refined character. It’s perfect for pairing with rich, savory dishes like braised short ribs or grilled meats. $50

2017 Tenuta Di Ghizzano Nambrot– A sophisticated blend from Tuscany, this wine brings together Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot in a harmonious and complex profile. Aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and dried herbs leap from the glass, alongside hints of leather, tobacco, and cedar. The palate is rich and structured, with layers of dark fruit, espresso, and savory earthiness, supported by fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity. A wine of great depth and elegance, Nambrot is ideal for pairing with roasted meats, aged cheeses, or special holiday meals. $44.99

2021 Col D’Orcia Spezieri Toscana IGT– Vibrant and lively, the 2021 Col D’Orcia Spezieri offers a fresh, approachable expression of Tuscany. It showcases aromas of ripe red berries, wild cherries, and a hint of spice, with subtle floral notes. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with juicy flavors of raspberry, strawberry, and a touch of black pepper, wrapped in soft tannins and bright acidity. This wine has a playful yet refined character, making it versatile for pairing with everything from casual pasta dishes to holiday charcuterie boards and lighter meals. $18.99

2020 Stags Leap, “The Leap” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon- Opulent and complex, this wine reveals aromas of black cherry, dark plum, and cedar. The palate is rich with dark fruit flavors, espresso, and hints of tobacco, complemented by firm tannins and a long, luxurious finish. This wine is ideal for gifting as well as very special dinners. It’s a wine I pull out with special guests and when celebrating a wonderful fall or winter night! Right now they’re having a sale if you act fast and you can get this wine for a better price! $84 normally $120

Fun Snacks to Pair 

Tonnino Tuna Filets- I had a Tapas Brunch at my home recently with some wines I will showcase very soon, but had to show off these tuna fillets because as a hostess who loves to entertain, these as a gift would be so appreciated! These are premium caught wild tuna filets in water, olive oil, infused herb olive oil, and they even offer some spicy flavors. This is the perfect combo with the Fiol Prosecco or Chardonnay but can easily pair with our Planeta red above too. For any culinary enthusiast or world traveler this is a perfect pairing with your wine bottle and you can find these filets all over the USA as well as online! $35/ pack of 6

Uncle Jerry’s Pretzels- A great pairing with any of these wines. I had the pleasure of tasting these delightfully crunchy pretzels with different “toasts” and salt variations! I tried these over the summer so it was too warm to ship chocolate covered ones but the light salt, regular, and extra dark were all very good! These are Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels, that are great to have on a cheese board or out for guests. Simply grab a bottle above and then take a ribbon and tie a bag to the wine; it’s a perfect gift for anyone! $15.50/bag

MightyLicious Cookies– So delicious and made with good ingredients! These are gluten free, kosher, and use no GMO ingredients. The Brown Butter Chocolate Chip is hearty and mild, but you really taste the brown butter which is great to pair with the reds above or the chardonnay. The Peanut Butter is surprising and not overly nutty so it works with the Prosecco or maybe even a rose from one of my other roundups. The Coconut Oatmeal ones are sensational and I had to stop myself from eating the whole bag; they burst with flavor! The shortbread ones are also delicious and are ideal for ice cream sundae’s or chocolate fondue. $8.99/bag

SOMM IN THE GROVE Extra Virgin Olive Oil’s & Balsamic’s- Shameless plug but it had to be done because I launched my line of products specifically to give as gifts and pair with wines! The Black Garlic Balsamic is ideal when pairing with Asian cuisine or a roasted duck, while the Cinnamon Pear Balsamic is perfect on Sweet Potato Casserole, warm Kale Salad, and as an addition to a lovely cheese board. I also have a FUSED Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Italy fused, meaning the peppers and garlic sit with the oil and slowly fuse flavor wise. The Peperoncino Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is absolutely delicious with potatoes, seafood, and so much more when you need a touch of spice to add to any dish. Lastly we know and love the Picual and Coratina, high in polyphenols and direct from my amazing farmers in Spain and Italy! $15-18

The Spice Lab Spice Blends- I chose to add some spices to my online store from The Spice Lab, a women owned USA company blending premium spices into amazing mixes for you to use. These come with our culinary kits such as the Bread Dippers Delight, which you can choose 2 spices or the Spanish salt, with an Olive Oil of your choice and you get a unique handcrafted Turkish dipping bowl too! Starting at $55/box

The Grand Finale To Make Every Gift Special! 

Joy To The World Glitterazzi Martini Santa Ornament– One of the most beautiful ornaments to grace my holiday tree, this Martini Santa is just perfect to give to the one you love to drink martini’s with! These ornaments are made by some of the finest European artists in Poland and are essential to the holiday season. These make incredible centerpieces, gifts to give with a special bottle of wine or gin, and should be on every tree this year. Don’t like Martini’s, but want something else? They have an array of ornaments to suit all needs, hobbies, and lifestyles! $85