By Michael Bray
I think all of us would agree that pumpkin is one of the most iconic symbols of autumn, and one of the season’s most celebrated flavors. Beyond the ever-popular pumpkin spice latte, fall brings an abundance of pumpkin-inspired fare that can lead to really fun and unique wine pairings.
Pumpkin Chili: Dry Riesling
A variation of a classic chili recipe with the addition of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and roasted pumpkin seeds calls for a white wine with noticeable fruit and balanced acidity. Pierre Sparr Riesling (Alsace, France; $16.99) delivers across the board, with a vibrant, fruit-forward nose and palate. It’s dry, but not too dry, with a creamy texture and combination of floral and fruity flavors that stand up to the warm spice and texture of the chili.
Pumpkin Ravioli: Valpolicella
Typically served with a brown butter sauce and a touch of sweetness and spice, pumpkin ravioli is one of autumn’s coziest dishes. The powerful flavors in the dish will sing when paired with a robust red, and a classic Valpolicella from Italy is a perfect choice. Sometimes referred to as a “baby Amarone,” Valpolicella is made from a blend of Italian grapes that produce full-bodied, fruit-driven wines with a chewy texture and deep flavors. Brigaldara Valpolicella Classico (Veneto, Italy; $16.49) is made from a combination of Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella, and offers warm aromas of flavors of red currants, blackberry, and violet.
Pumpkin Pie: Tawny Port
I couldn’t mention pumpkin pairings without highlighting the most revered pumpkin dish of all time – pumpkin pie! Desserts provide some unique challenges when it comes to wine pairing, as the sweetness of the food can easily overpower the structural elements of the wine. As such, its safest to aim for a wine that’s sweeter than the dessert, and a fortified wine like Tawny Port is pumpkin pie’s best friend. Tawny Port is gradually exposed to oxygen during the aging process, which leads to “brown” aromas and flavors of nuts, brown sugar, baking spice, and dried fruit. Niepoort Tawny Port (Douro, Portugal; $15.99) is balanced and flavorful with nutty aromas and a palate marked by spiced fig and currant. It will pair beautifully with pumpkin pie, and an array of other fall desserts, as well.
Hungry yet? Keep me posted on your journey into food and wine pairings this fall and beyond. Reach me any time at michael@passionvines.com.
Drink passionately, Michael
Michael Bray is the founder of and director of operations at Passion Vines Wine & Spirit Company in Somers Point and Egg Harbor Township. He serves on numerous local boards.
