Anthony’s Top 5 Fall Wines to Try from Valley Wine & Liquor!

Nestled in the heart of autumn, the golden hues, the crisp air, and the anticipation of festivities beckon us to indulge in the finest wines that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the season. Here's a curated list of top 5 wines that are not just beverages but experiences in themselves.

1. Dr. Frank Semi-Dry Riesling

A harmonious blend of tropical richness, this wine brings forward flavors of apricot, nectarine, and a subtle hint of pineapple. The touch of sweetness balanced by its lemon citrus notes makes it an embodiment of autumn's grace.

Why it's Great for Fall: Riesling's fruity profile makes it a refreshing choice during the early fall months.

Food Pairing: Its aromatic profile complements spicy and aromatic ingredients, making it an ideal match for dishes like Thai curry or spicy BBQ wings.

2. Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc

This lively white wine captures the essence of autumn mornings. Bursting with refreshing notes of grapefruit, melon, and citrus, it's a vibrant ode to the season.

Why it's Great for Fall: Its citrusy zest is a bright contrast to the cool fall weather.

Food Pairing: Its bright acidity pairs wonderfully with a fresh summer salad or grilled fish, enhancing the dish's flavors.

3. Purple Owl Pinot Noir

With earthy undertones and vibrant flavors of black cherry and raspberry, this wine is like a cozy blanket on a cool autumn evening.

Why it's Great for Fall: Its depth and earthy notes are warming during the cooler fall evenings.

Food Pairing: Its medium-bodied nature and earthy notes make it a delightful partner for dishes like roasted duck or herb-infused lamb chops.

4. Bound Cabernet Sauvignon

Elegant and robust, this wine, aged in a blend of French and American Oak, exudes aromas of black cherry, Cassis berries, and a whiff of vanilla, encapsulating the warmth and heartiness of fall.

Why it's Great for Fall: Its hearty nature is perfect for gatherings during the colder months.

Food Pairing: Its structured tannins and rich flavors complement hearty dishes, making it an exquisite match for a juicy steak.

5. Adirondack Winery Sweet Home Apple Pie

This semi-sweet wine is autumn in a glass. Evoking the flavors of a freshly baked homemade apple pie, it's a celebration of traditional holiday spices and the season's best offerings.

Why it's Great for Fall: Apple and cinnamon flavors are classic fall favorites!

Food Pairing: Being a dessert wine, it pairs beautifully with cinnamon-spiced desserts. Additionally, two specific dessert recipes that would amplify its flavors are coming up next!

Spotlight on New York Wineries

Dr. Frank Winery: A Beacon of Vinifera Excellence

Dr. Frank Winery, situated on the picturesque shores of Keuka Lake, has been a cornerstone of vinifera grape cultivation in the Eastern United States. Founded by Dr. Konstantin Frank in 1957, the winery ignited the "Vinifera Revolution", changing the course of wine growing in the Finger Lakes and beyond. Over the decades, it has maintained a steadfast commitment to quality, which reflects in its extensive range of wines. The winery's Riesling, crafted from vines dating back to 1958, is a testament to its legacy, encapsulating the tropical richness of apricot, nectarine, and a touch of pineapple with a balanced lemon citrus note. The winery continues to be a leader, with its wines earning accolades and recognition. In 2018, Dr. Frank Winery was honored with the "Winery of the Year" award, showcasing its relentless pursuit of vinicultural excellence. Their 2023 Fall Release event was a grand celebration of the season's harvest, offering a delightful tasting experience of their new wine releases, paired with culinary delights amidst the serene ambiance of the vineyard.

Adirondack Winery: A Symbol of Artisanal Spirit

Founded by the passionate duo Mike & Sasha Pardy, Adirondack Winery symbolizes the artisanal spirit in New York’s wine community. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2023, the winery has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Lake George. The anniversary was marked with a series of events, reflecting on their journey and showcasing their handcrafted, award-winning wines. Their Sweet Home Apple Pie wine, a semi-sweet concoction, encapsulates the essence of autumn with its flavors reminiscent of a freshly baked homemade apple pie. The winery, deeply rooted in the local culture, held its 11th annual “Drink Pink” breast cancer awareness campaign in 2023, with a fundraising goal of $20,000, emphasizing its community-centric ethos. A portion of the sales during this campaign was donated to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of the Adirondacks, showcasing their dedication to giving back to the community.

Perfect Dessert Recipe Pairings Adirondack Winery Sweet Home Apple Pie

Apple Pie Tartlets:
Indulge in the quintessence of autumn with these mini apple pie tartlets, a perfect companion to Adirondack Winery Sweet Home Apple Pie wine.

Ingredients:

Mini tart shells
2 cups diced apples
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon butter
Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium-sized pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the apples are tender.
Fill each mini tart shell with the apple mixture.
Place the tartlets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the tart shells are golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before drizzling with caramel sauce. Serve warm alongside a glass of Sweet Home Apple Pie wine.

Cinnamon Spiced Crepes:
These delicate cinnamon-infused crepes, filled with whipped cream and topped with apple compote, are a sublime match for the wine's rich flavors.