As the leaves start to change and the cool breeze settles in, it’s time to transition from light, crisp summer wines to those with a bit more depth and warmth. Fall in New York City brings that perfect crispness in the air, and with it, the perfect excuse to indulge in wines that reflect the season’s rich flavors and cozy moments. Fall wines offer a perfect balance of warmth and richness, making them ideal for pairing with hearty dishes and cozy gatherings. 

At Vino Fine Wine & Spirits, we’ve handpicked the best wines in NYC to embrace the flavors of fall, ideal for pairing with everything from hearty meals to quiet nights in.

Fall in Love with These Red Wines

These bold, full-bodied reds are perfect for pairing with autumn meals or enjoying by the fire as the temperature drops.

 

Pinot Noir

If there’s one red that truly captures the spirit of fall, it’s Pinot Noir. Elegant and versatile, it brings bright, delicate fruit and subtle earthy notes that feel tailor-made for autumn’s flavors. From roasted vegetables to poultry to mushroom-rich pastas, Pinot Noir always finds its place at the table.

Photo Courtesy: @unionwinecompany

Underwood Pinot Noir 2022 750mL

This easy-drinking, expressive Pinot Noir layers red cherry, earthy undertones, and smooth tannins. A true Oregon classic, it blends grapes from vineyards across the state, delivering juicy cherry, black currant, and forest floor flavors. Perfect for any occasion, at an extraordinary price.

Jeanne Marie Pinot Noir 2022
Silky and smooth, this California Pinot Noir delivers bright cherry, floral notes, and subtle spice. Light to medium-bodied, it offers ripe raspberry, tart cherry, and a touch of earth. A great value wine crafted with care.

Prisma Pinot Noir 2023
Sustainably farmed in the Casablanca Valley, this biodynamic Pinot Noir offers bright red fruit notes of strawberry and cherry, with a hint of oak. Light and smooth, it’s perfect for everyday drinking, finishing with a velvety texture and a lifted mid-palate.

Gamay

Gamay is known for its vibrant fruitiness and light body, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a refreshing red wine in the cooler months. With its notes of red berries and floral aromas, Gamay is a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with fall dishes without overwhelming the palate.

Photo Courtesy: @sheldrakepoint

Sheldrake Point Gamay Noir 2023
Think crisp autumn air in a glass. This Finger Lakes Gamay bursts with bright red fruit and a snap of fresh acidity, making it ridiculously easy to drink. Pair it with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a well-stocked charcuterie board, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect, no-fuss fall evening.

Donnachadh Vineyard Estate Gamay Sta. Rita Hills 2022
From the cool coastal slopes of Sta. Rita Hills, this organic Gamay is all about energy; juicy cherry, a lift of acidity, and a whisper of spice that keeps you coming back for another sip. It’s a natural partner for roast turkey, grilled vegetables, or a decadent wild mushroom risotto. In other words: your fall dinner table just found its new centerpiece.

Domaine Anita Chenas Cuvee P'tit Co 2023
Burgundy elegance with a playful side: this Chénas Gamay is silky, bursting with red berries, and laced with delicate floral notes. Soft tannins make it incredibly smooth, while its layered character shines alongside roasted pork, duck confit, or a creamy cheese platter. It’s the kind of bottle you open “just for a glass” and somehow it’s empty by the end of the night.

Cabernet Franc

When it comes to autumn reds, Pinot Noir usually steals the spotlight. It’s silky, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. But for those in the know, Cabernet Franc is the season’s best-kept secret. With its balance of bright fruit, savory herbs, and smooth tannins, it brings a little more edge and earthiness to the table, pairing beautifully with the heartier flavors of fall. Think of it as Pinot’s moodier, more intriguing sibling.

Onabay Vineyards North Fork Cabernet Franc Cot-Ferment 2021
From Long Island’s North Fork, this vibrant Cab Franc delivers red berry brightness, herbal spice, and silky tannins. A natural match for roasted root vegetables, braised short ribs, or a velvety squash soup.

Ravines Wine Cellars Cabernet Franc Finger Lakes 2022
Fresh red fruit, a touch of spice, and that signature Finger Lakes acidity give this wine its lively character. Pair it with roast turkey, butternut squash risotto, or a cozy pumpkin pasta for peak fall comfort.

Chateau du Petit Thouars 'Les Georges' Chinon Rouge 2022
Straight from the Loire Valley, this elegant Chinon offers dark berries, earthy depth, and a subtle lift of spice. Perfect for grilled meats, caramelized vegetables, or a rich cheese platter.

Merlot

When the evenings turn crisp, Merlot is the bottle you’ll want within arm’s reach. Plush, fruit-driven, and effortlessly smooth, it pairs as easily with a Tuesday night pasta as it does with a Saturday dinner party. Soft tannins and a velvety mouthfeel give it that easy charm, like the friend who can talk to anyone at the table.

Photo Courtesy: @pollardperse

Pollard Yakima Valley Merlot 2018
From Washington’s Yakima Valley, this rich, full-bodied Merlot wraps ripe plum and mocha in layers of velvety tannins. Perfect for grilled steaks, roast chicken, or creamy mushroom pasta on a chilly evening.

Barranco Oscuro Granada El Canto Del Mirlo Merlot 2020
Grown high in Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains, this bold, structured Merlot is all dark berries, warming spice, and a luxuriously smooth finish. Ideal with roasted lamb or an indulgent cheese platter, your ticket to a little Spanish flair this fall.

Chateau Guilhem Pot de Vin Pays d'Oc Merlot 2021
Easy-drinking yet satisfying, this French Merlot offers plush plum fruit, a touch of cocoa, and a soft, rounded finish. A great match for grilled meats or creamy pasta, and just as lovely on its own for a relaxed night in.

Zinfandel

When the nights get cooler but the party’s still going strong, Zinfandel is your go-to. Bursting with ripe fruit and warm spice, it’s the kind of wine that fills a room with energy. Perfect for grilled meats, hearty stews, and those fall evenings when you want something with a little more swagger.

Day by Ehren Jordan Sonoma County Zinfandel 2022
From a master of the craft, this Sonoma Zinfandel blends Dry Creek Valley vineyards for a juicy mix of blackberry, spice, and velvety tannins. Aged in neutral French oak, it’s tailor-made for grilled meats or rich, flavorful stews; a true taste of Sonoma’s character.

Robert Biale Black Chicken Zinfandel 2021 375mL
A Napa Valley icon in a perfect half-bottle size, “Black Chicken” delivers bold blackberry fruit, baking spice, and silky tannins. Rich and memorable, it’s ideal for BBQ, aged cheeses, or simply savoring on its own when you want something truly special.

Clos Saron Zinfandel Black Swan 2022
This organic Zinfandel from California’s Sierra Foothills delivers bold flavors of ripe berries and spice with a smooth, layered finish. Its rich profile makes it an ideal pairing for BBQ ribs, braised short ribs, or a smoky grilled steak, perfect for a fall evening.

Whites to Brighten Your Autumn Table

Bright, refreshing, and perfect for crisp autumn days, these whites offer a balance of fruit and acidity to complement your fall wines gatherings.

 

Chardonnay

When the air turns crisp and the evenings call for comfort food, Chardonnay steps in like a warm blanket. From bright, mineral-driven styles to rich, oak-kissed pours, it has a way of making roasted meats, creamy pastas, and fall vegetables taste even more inviting.

Crystallum Wines 'The Agnes' Western Cape Chardonnay 2021 

Proof that Chardonnay doesn’t have to be heavy to feel luxurious. This South African stunner leans into citrus and green apple with a whisper of florals, finishing with a minerality that’s pure elegance. It’s the kind of wine you can pour with roast chicken just as easily as with seared scallops.

Chateau La Fleur de Bouard l'Atlantique Bordeaux Chardonnay 2021 

Bordeaux may not be famous for Chardonnay, but this one makes a strong case. Ripe pear, a gentle touch of vanilla, and a smooth, creamy finish make it perfect for seafood risotto or a decadent pasta night.

Donum Year of the Ram Single Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay 2015 

From the cool hills of Carneros, this Chardonnay balances ripe tropical fruit with toasty oak and a velvety texture. It’s a wine built for special evenings—think lobster, creamy risotto, or simply sipping while the soup simmers on the stove.

 

Riesling

When autumn menus start leaning into spice, whether it’s chili heat, fragrant curries, or a pinch of cinnamon; Riesling is the balancing act you need. With its vibrant acidity, aromatic lift, and range from crisp to gently off-dry, it brings a refreshing counterpoint to bold flavors while also pairing beautifully with fresh fall salads and lighter fare.

Sektkellerei Ohlig Rheingau Sekt Brut Weiss Latitude 50 NV
From Germany’s Rheingau region, this sparkling Riesling is all about freshness. Fine bubbles carry green apple and white floral aromas, making it as perfect for a celebratory toast as it is for pairing with oysters, sushi, or light appetizers.

Galen Glen Winery Riesling Fossil Vineyard Lehigh Valley Penn. 2022 

An organic gem from Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, this Riesling layers orchard fruit, subtle florals, and zippy acidity. It shines alongside spicy dishes, fresh seafood, or crisp seasonal salads. The Fossil Vineyard name is a nod to the ancient seashells found in its soils, a little terroir magic in every glass.

Henry Fuchs Riesling Alsace 2023 

From the organic Domaine Henry Fuchs in Ribeauvillé, this Alsace Riesling delivers lime zest, white blossoms, and a clean mineral streak. Concentrated citrus, hints of nougat and spice, and a long, dry finish make it both refreshing and food-friendly, perfect with roast poultry, pork, or aromatic vegetable dishes.

Viognier 

Viognier is like autumn in silk. Soft, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant. Known for its lush floral notes and ripe stone fruit, it’s a natural with creamy pastas, roasted vegetables, and richly flavored seafood. Whether from the sun-soaked south of France or the prestigious slopes of Condrieu, Viognier brings warmth and finesse to the table.

Comtesse Marion Pays d'Oc Viognier 2024

From the rolling vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon, this Viognier is a picture of southern French charm: ripe peach, gentle florals, and a smooth, balanced finish. Delicious with roasted poultry, creamy squash dishes, or earthy grilled mushrooms.

Domaine de Montine Grignan-les-Adhemar Viognier 2024

Organically farmed in the northern reaches of the Southern Rhône, this vibrant Viognier offers ripe peach and apricot with a lift of floral perfume. Its balanced acidity and supple texture make it a perfect companion for roasted chicken, fresh seafood, or a creamy goat cheese.

Benoit Roseau Condrieu Le Riollement 2021

From one of the Rhône’s most coveted appellations, this Condrieu is an elegant showcase of Viognier’s depth; layered peach and apricot, delicate florals, and a richly textured palate lifted by vibrant acidity. Outstanding with lobster risotto, roasted chicken, or simply savored on its own.

Chenin Blanc 

Chenin Blanc might be the ultimate shape-shifter of the wine world. It can be dry, off-dry, or luxuriously sweet, which makes it a perfect companion for fall. With lively acidity and layers of fruit, it works beautifully with butternut squash soup, roasted parsnips, or even an apple tart. This is the kind of wine that feels equally at home during a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

Photo Courtesy: @myburghbros.wine

Myburgh Bros. Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2024 

From South Africa’s Western Cape, this old-vine Chenin is textured yet fresh with notes of pear, honeysuckle, and a lingering mineral edge. It is a natural match for grilled white fish, roasted chicken with herbs, or tangy goat cheese.

L'Austral Saumur Amandiers Chenin Blanc 2018
This organic Chenin from the Loire Valley’s Saumur appellation offers ripe apple, a touch of honey, bright acidity, and a chalky minerality. Elegant and complex, it pairs well with seared scallops, roasted turkey, or a cheese board featuring sharp, aged selections.

Kloof Street Old Vine Chenin Blanc Swartland 2023

Heritage vines in Swartland produce this vibrant Chenin with tropical fruit, a touch of honey, and a refreshing crispness. It is a wine that can easily move from grilled seafood to an autumn salad without missing a beat.

Gewurztraminer

In any well-curated fall wine collection, Gewürztraminer is the showstopper. Known for its striking aromatics, generous body, and layers of lychee, rose, and warm spice, it stands up beautifully to autumn’s heartiest dishes. This is the bottle that adds intrigue to the table, turning a cozy dinner into a memorable seasonal gathering.

Photo Courtesy: @silverthreadwine

Silver Thread Vineyard Gewurztraminer Finger Lakes 2022

From the cool-climate Finger Lakes, this Gewürztraminer layers exotic fruit and spice over a clean, vibrant frame. It’s equally at home with roasted pork, spicy stir-fry, or a decadent cheese spread.

Leon Beyer Alsace Gewurztraminer 2019

A classic from one of Alsace’s most respected producers, this wine bursts with rose petals, lychee, and a touch of exotic spice. It’s a natural fit for spiced roast chicken, duck with a fruit glaze, or creamy curry dishes.

Erste & Neue Alto-Adige Gewurztraminer 2023
Grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Italy’s Alto Adige, this version offers bright aromatics, a touch of rose, and lively spice. Pair it with grilled sausages, fragrant Asian dishes, or creamy cheeses for a fresh twist on fall flavors.

Cheers to Fall Wines That Bring the Season to Life

As fall settles into New York City, it’s the perfect time to trade in your summer wines for something with a little more warmth and depth. The crisp air and changing leaves are the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine that reflects the season’s rich, cozy moments. Whether you're gathering around the table with friends, enjoying a quiet evening, or indulging in your favorite autumn meals, these fall wines will elevate every moment. 

From bold reds that pair perfectly with hearty dishes to refreshing whites for those crisp days, these selections from Vino Fine Wine & Spirits are the ideal way to embrace the flavors of the season. So, grab your favorite bottle, pour a glass, and let the wines of fall transport you to all the best moments this season has to offer. 

Cheers to great wine, great company, and the joy of autumn!