Autumn is an amazing season for diners and drinkers in the Hudson Valley. From pumpkin season to dining updates, there is a ton to be excited about during this time of year.
By Raphael Beretta and Olivia Cambalik
Once temperatures begin to dip, local wine cravings change. Fuller bodied reds, drier whites, and barrel-aged releases become the talk of the town. Drink these vinos from Hudson Valley vineyards and wineries to really get in the autumn spirit or bring to Thanksgiving dinner.
2022 Estate Baco Noir, Nostrano Vineyards
Milton
Nostrano Vineyards’ tasting room overlooks rolling hills, making it the perfect spot to sip a glass of wine and enjoy the fall scenery. Produced in limited quantities from the oldest grapes in the vineyard, this red wine pairs perfectly with fall dishes. With flavors of blackberries, dark cherry, and sweet tobacco, the smoky, earthy notes are perfect for chilly weather.
2023 Pinot Noir, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery
Millbrook
This pinot noir pairs perfectly with turkey, making it an ideal sip for Thanksgiving dinner. The fruit-flavored profile offers a nice balance to the crisp weather, with aromas of deep berry fruits like raspberry, black currant, and hints of soft rose petals. Cherry and plum notes also add to the tasting experience.
Bourbon Barrel Blonde, Whitecliff Winery
Gardiner
Colder temperatures generally inspire a shift from summer gins, vodkas, and tequilas to dark liquors like rye whiskey and bourbon. Whitecliff Winery, one of the Hudson Valley’s premier vino destinations, produces a wonderfully bourbon barrel-aged dessert wine. The blonde is actually a white port made from vidal blanc grapes. It’s then aged for two years in Tuthilltown Distillery/Hudson Whiskey bourbon barrels, infusing the wine with butterscotch and caramel notes. Strong and sweet, this wine ends a fall feast with grace and indulgence.
View this post on Instagram
Late Harvest, Brotherhood Winery
Washingtonville
“America’s Oldest Winery” always has a trick up its sleeve when it comes to crafting novel and interesting wine experiences. From sangria to chocolate wine, no two tastings at Brotherhood Winery are exactly the same. Late Harvest is a fairly sweet Riesling. It’s crisp and has a balanced acidity that matches dropping temperatures perfectly. Notes of apricot and honeysuckle dominate the nose, while subtle touches of honey and lychee define its flavor. Drink this chilled, and pair it with tasty fall treats.
View this post on Instagram
Marquette, Hudson Chatham Winery
Ghent
With rich fruit flavors of raspberry, black cherry, red currant, and tart plum, as well as balanced acidity, this wine is an excellent choice to pair with many fall dishes. It is finished with spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla for the perfect cold weather flavor. Note that this wine will age gracefully in a cellar if you’d like to save it for a future occasion.
Noiret, Stoutridge Distillery and Winery
Marlboro
Stoutridge Distillery and Winery takes its time perfecting wines, with many varietals aging six years or more before release. The 2008 Noiret is a top-notch selection for elegant dinners during the Hudson Valley’s autumn season. A bold balsamic nose delights, with a bit of cracked black pepper rounding out the aroma. Deep flavors of red plums and spices are especially captivating. The Noiret grape is a hybrid, showcasing newer trends in the wine industry. This bottle is only available at Stoutridge.
View this post on Instagram
Rabbit’s Foot, Robibero Winery
New Paltz
Robibero Winery creates a host of super-delicious wines. For harvest celebrations or fall dinner parties, Rabbit’s Foot is a sure bet. This red “table wine” was engineered to please, with fruity notes of plum and dark cherry. A hint of brown sugar adds to the seasonality. Local baco noir and pinot noir grapes combine for a drinkable, accessible wine. Of course, estate syrah and malbec are both excellent choices for cold weather as well.
View this post on Instagram
Reserve Merlot 2020, City Winery Hudson ValleyÂ
Montgomery
City Winery Hudson Valley has made a splash this season with outdoor concerts, creative dining, and, of course, delicious wines. For autumnal sipping, you can’t go wrong with this merlot, which pairs perfectly with a hearty meal. This wine opens with the aroma of rosemary, sage, and thyme, developing notes of elderberry, blackcurrant, and blueberry in the mouth. It leaves a lasting impression with cinnamon bark, fennel, and cloves.
Related: The Tasting Room at Catskill Provisions Distillery Tempts Foodies in Callicoon
