What are some wines that are great for fall?

As the Labor Day holiday has come and gone, it seems as though life has kicked back into full swing. Kids are back in school and need rides to and from soccer, ballet, and piano lessons (circle as appropriate). Then there’s your boss, who returned from vacation full of new plans for office efficiency and greater productivity. It’s enough to make the lazy days of summer seem all but a distant memory.

Here’s a wine survival tip for late summer and early fall: buy a mixed assortment of wine now, because things will only get more hectic. Having a mixed assortment of wine in your house is like having a little nest egg for a rainy day. You have the convenience of a selection, without having to make a grocery store run every day.

Here is a recommended list of wines that are sure to keep you in gear for the rest of the year:

1. Riesling
Riesling is one of the world’s most misunderstood and under-appreciated grapes. Rieslings tend to be lower in alcohol, are wonderfully aromatic, and can range in style from dry to slightly sweet. Keep them in your fridge, and when you have to pick up take-out, you know a cool bottle of wine awaits at home- a perfect complement to dinner.

2. Chardonnay
Many of us resort to roast chickens from the supermarket for quick dinners. The ideal pairing for such a meal is a Chardonnay. Chardonnay’s buttered apple flavors bring out the best in the bird.

3. Sparkling Wine
Why we don’t drink sparkling wine more regularly in this country is a complete mystery to me. It’s versatile, affordable, and can turn a tuna sandwich into a festive event. Use one bottle as an excuse to invite friends to weekend brunch, and keep the other one for a celebratory night.

4. Beau
Our Beau is an excellent secret blend of assorted grown grapes and Muscat Canelli. The subtle elements of the Muscat produce a fresh and floral portrayal of Gamay. It is the perfect red wine for semi sweet white wine palates. This is perfect with grilled foods, stews, and cheese dishes which make them the ideal transition wine as we move from summer into fall.

5. Cabernet Sauvignon
This is a wonderful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with flavors of rich pepper and spice. This wine is a rich, full-bodied red wine with luscious oak and berry flavors. It is the perfect wine for beef, lamb, venison and spicy sauces.

With a selection like this, there is no doubt that you will remember why you love fall!