What to Drink During Early Autumn: Wines That Embrace the Changing Season
- Wine O'Cork
- Aug 25
- 3 min read
As the golden haze of late summer fades into the mellow charm of early autumn, our palates start to shift alongside the weather. Cravings evolve—lighter fare makes room for heartier dishes, and crisp white wines give way to more textured, expressive bottles. So, what wines strike the perfect balance for this in-between season?
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet night at home, or simply seeking a bottle that captures the cozy essence of early autumn, we have four fantastic recommendations that shine during this time of year.
🌸 1. Planeta Rosé Sicilia DOC 2024 – A Rosé with Autumn Attitude
Who said rosé is only for summer? The Planeta Rosé Sicilia DOC 2024 proves otherwise. Made from Syrah and Nero d’Avola, this Sicilian rosé has a blush-pink hue and layers of wild strawberry, watermelon rind, and a hint of herbal salinity that make it beautifully complex.
It’s light enough for a warm afternoon, yet serious enough for an early autumn dinner table. Whether you’re serving roasted root vegetables, salmon, or a saffron seafood stew, this wine stands its ground with charm and grace.
🍂 Why it works for early autumn: Its fruit-forward freshness still carries summer’s warmth, but its structure and savoury undertones invite cozier pairings.
🍷 2. Château L’Escart “Eden” Bordeaux Supérieur Rouge 2022 – Earthy Elegance in a Bottle
As the evenings grow cooler and your meals become more robust, this Bordeaux blend offers a welcome depth. The Château L’Escart Eden Bordeaux Supérieur Rouge 2022 is a rich, Merlot-dominant wine with notes of ripe plums, forest floor, and soft spice.
Elegant tannins and a velvety finish make it an excellent pairing for grilled lamb chops, mushroom risotto, or simply a wedge of Comté by the fireplace.
🍂 Why it works for early autumn: It captures the grounding energy of the season—earthy, plush, and balanced without overwhelming the senses.
🍇 3. Graham’s Blend N.5 Meio Seco – The Autumn Aperitif
Let’s start with a wine that’s as versatile as early autumn itself. Graham’s Blend N.5 Meio Seco is a modern, aromatic take on white port, crafted specifically for mixing or sipping chilled. With notes of orange blossom, honeyed apricots, and citrus zest, this medium-dry white port is refreshing yet comforting—ideal for warmer autumn afternoons or as an aperitif before a hearty meal.
Try it on ice with tonic water, a slice of orange, and a sprig of rosemary, and you’ve got an elegant seasonal cocktail. It also pairs beautifully with semi-hard cheeses, nuts, or even roasted figs.
🍂 Why it works for early autumn: Its light sweetness and floral freshness match the still-warm days, while the deeper fruit tones hint at the richness to come in the colder months.
🍷 4. Cabriz Colheita Selecionada Red 2018 – Portugal’s Answer to Fall Reds
From Portugal’s Dão region comes a wine that embodies rustic warmth and quiet refinement. Cabriz Colheita Selecionada Red 2018 is a blend of native Portuguese varieties like Alfrocheiro, Tinta Roriz, and Touriga Nacional.
Expect deep cherry, dried herbs, and hints of cedar on the nose, with a silky mouthfeel and lingering spice. It's a wine that invites you to slow down. Perfect with roasted duck, creamy mushroom pasta, or a fall charcuterie board full of aged cheeses and cured meats.
🍂 Why it works for early autumn: With its spice, depth, and gentle warmth, this wine is like your favorite wool sweater—reliable, cozy, and stylish.
🍷 Embracing the Season Through Wine
Early autumn is a transitional moment—sun-drenched days give way to cooler, crisper evenings, and there’s a certain romance in the air. These wines mirror that shift perfectly. They don’t rush into the richness of winter, but they also move past the breeziness of summer. Whether you're sipping alone, hosting friends, or setting the mood for a seasonal dinner, choosing the right wine helps you embrace this fleeting, magical season.
So as the leaves begin to turn and the air begins to cool, let your wine glass reflect the beauty of change.
🍁 Cheers to early autumn—and to wines that know how to celebrate it.
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