Wines that Pair with the Changing of the Seasons

When shopping for wines to bridge from warmer to cooler weather, look for wines with more body and stronger flavors. These three are a good start.

By Gina Trippi

When you hear the phrase “seasonal drinker”, you probably think hot chocolate, spiced cider, peppermint mocha, pumpkin spice latte, egg nog, hot buttered rum, hot toddy, and, of course, mulled wine.

But there are many more options across the wine spectrum to pair with the change from warmer to cooler weather than just mulled wine. Let’s look at a rosé, a white and a red.

A darker, somewhat heavier rosé is perfect to carry you through the temperature changes. Cerasuolo di Abruzzo Rosé is 100% organic Montepulciano grown in clay and limestone and fermented in stainless steel. You will discover aromas of candied orange peel, ripe red apple, mulberry, hyacinth, and rose hip.

A manual green harvest is performed each summer to achieve the optimum yields for each varietal. All fruit is picked by hand and then vinified immediately relying on soft pressing techniques and controlled temperature. The grapes are then carefully packed into small boxes.

Winemaker Lambertio Venucci said: “Two concepts near and dear to our hearts: protection of the sense of terroir and the preservation of indigenous varietals”.

Jurancon Sec, a white wine, from Clos Guirouilh is among the most traditional domaines of Jurançon producing a white wine that reflects the historic soul of the region.

The philosophy of Clos Guirouth is that nothing should be rushed and there are no concessions to the pace of the modern world. The wines are released when deemed ready to drink.

This wine is made of 90% Gros Manseng and 10% Petit Courbu from 40 year old vines grown in calcareous clay and sandstone soil around the ancient farmhouse that serves as both the winery and home.

This bottle is full-bodied, presenting a rich and powerful palate with notes of stone fruit including nectarine and apricot, citrus, spices, and a strong minerality, balanced by fresh acidity. It is the weight of this wine that carries it into the cooler months.

Château l’Ermite d’Auzan was founded in the 12th century by the hermits of Ste Cécile d’Estagel Abbey. It is situated on the pilgrimage road of Santiago de Compostela used to produce wine for pilgrims. The first winery of Château l’Ermite d’Auzan was built in the early 1800s.

Flash forward to today to find a winery committed to sustainable practices pursuing a course of increasing soil fertility, supporting biodiversity protection, maintaining awareness of natural cycles and animal welfare, never using chemicals or GMOs and clearly labeling the wine for customers.

Wine Enthusiast says of this wine: “In the glass, a core of sour dark cherry, tomato, brown mushrooms, black peppercorn, and a touch of earthy funk meld into an intriguing bouquet.

"The palate is focused, with spiced plums and a hint of clove, while vibrant acidity balances youthful, clinging tannins. Drink now, ideally paired with pan-roasted wild game with a heap of fresh herbs.”

Metro Wines Asheville

Charlotte Street!  It’s the Next BIG Thing!

“Big Shop Selection.  Small Shop Service”

828-575-9525 | metrowinesasheville.com