As the seasons start transitioning from hot and humid to crisp and cool, we are greatly anticipating all things that come with the fall season. The leaves start changing to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red, cozy clothes and nights by the fire return and of course, our favorite- apple picking. We have rounded up our favorite ways to use your bag of fresh picked apples with delicious dishes along with the best wines to pair with them for the ultimate cozy and relaxing fall season.
Apple Pie
Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Grand Cru Sommerberg
Hailey Giordano
2020 pairs beautifully with apple pie due to its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, which complements the pie’s sweet-tart flavors. The wine’s complex notes of ripe apple and citrus echo the dessert’s filling, while its minerality contrasts the buttery crust, enhancing the overall experience. The elegant finish of the Riesling also complements the warm spices in the pie, making for a perfect fall pairing. It’s my favorite because it elevates the dessert to a whole new level, pour me a second glass and pass me another slice.
Pork Tenderloin with Apples
Sette Ponti Crognolo
Jennica Ossi
Pork tenderloin with apples is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with sweet, caramelized apples, evoking the coziness of autumn. When paired with a Sangiovese blend like Sette Ponti Crognolo, the dish reaches new heights. The wine’s bright acidity and moderate tannins cut through the richness of the pork, while its cherry and earthy undertones harmonize with the apples’ sweetness. The slight tartness of Sangiovese complements the caramelized flavors, while its herbal notes add depth to the savory elements of the pork, making each bite a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy. This pairing not only enhances the flavors but also embodies the warm, rustic charm of the season, making it a perfect choice for a hearty feast.
Cinnamon Apple Cider Donuts
Chateau d'Aqueria Tavel Rose
Sophie Carroll
Cinnamon apple cider donuts bring everyone back to the days of apple picking with friends and family, reminding everyone of the fall season. Chateau d’Aqueria Tavel Rose 2022 is an intense, pink-colored wine with aromas of raspberry, strawberry, and peppery notes. This Tavel Rosé is known for being fuller-bodied and more structured than most rosés, with flavors of red berries, hints of spice and a dry finish. The bright acidity and red berry notes in this Tavel Rosé complement the sweetness and spice of the donuts, while the wine’s dry finish balances the donuts richness and sugary taste. The wine has a long finish with caramel notes and pairs well with every part of a meal. With its complex and elegant spicy, fruity notes, this wine is beautifully balanced by its remarkable freshness, making it an excellent match for a cinnamon apple-cider donut.
Cheddar & Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Louis Jadot Chablis Premier Cru
Anna Brenny
After a cool fall day, my favorite apple dish to warm up with is a crispy Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich with a glass of Louis Jadot Chablis Premier Cru. Whether it is a sharp cheddar or a sophisticated, aged cheddar, the tart green apples pair immaculately with the buttery, cheesy bread. If you want to take this delicious sandwich to the next level, add some bacon – you won’t regret it! I love pairing this with the Louis Jadot Chablis Premier Cru, which is 100% Chardonnay. This wine has aromas of musk, white flowers, and melon with hints of grapefruit and citrus. It has a vibrant energy that pairs perfectly with the crispy bread, tart apples, and gooey cheese. I love unwinding after a long fall day sitting by the fire with this delicious duo in hand!
Caramel Apple Charcuterie Board
Bouvet Saphir
Mackenzie Lesher
Apple season is my favorite time of year! After a long day of apple picking, I like to chop up the fruits of my labor, get out some caramel dip, and pour a glass of Bouvet Saphir 2021. This effervescent white wine will level up your charcuterie board of sweets with crisp notes of white flowers, peach, acacia, honey, and hazelnut. The sweetness on the finish of this wine pairs with the sweetness of the caramel, while the refreshing acidity brightens up your palate. A luxurious way to end the perfect fall day!
Fall is approaching quickly, so take full advantage with these delectable apple dishes and their perfect wine pairings. Peak apple season is September and October, so hurry while it lasts! Snag these wines while they are still available on Wine365. Use discount code APPLE for 10% your purchase on Wine365!
