Wine Pairings for October Gatherings

As the leaves turn and the crisp air of autumn sets in, there’s no better time to gather with friends and family for a cozy meal featuring fall-inspired dishes paired with wines from the Petoskey Wine Region. Here are some pairing ideas to make your October gatherings unforgettable.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Late Harvest Riesling

Butternut squash soup, with its creamy consistency and earthy sweetness, pairs wonderfully with the 2022 Late Harvest Riesling from Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery. The wine’s crisp acidity cuts through the soup’s richness, while its fruity notes complement the squash’s natural sweetness.

Herb-Roasted Chicken with Pinot Noir

A tender, herb-roasted chicken pairs perfectly with a light-bodied 2023 Pinot Noir from Petoskey Farms & Vineyard. The wine’s subtle red fruit flavors and earthy undertones enhance the savory herbs in the dish, making for a balanced and flavorful experience.

Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Chutney and Itasca

Blu Dot Farm & Vineyard’s 2023 Itasca‘s light, crisp acidity is the ideal match for grilled pork chops topped with apple chutney. The wine’s floral notes and pear elevate the dish’s flavors, while its dryness complements the charred pork.

Pumpkin Risotto with Gewürztraminer

Pair a creamy pumpkin risotto with the 2021 Gewürztraminer from Resort Pike Cidery & Winery for a seasonal twist. The wine’s aromatic floral and spice notes enhance the warm, savory flavors of the pumpkin and nutmeg in the risotto, creating a cozy autumn dish.

Apple Crisp with La Crescent

End your meal on a sweet note with a classic apple crisp paired with Cellar 1914’s 2019 La Crescent. The wine’s hints of honey and melon combine with good acidity, making it a perfect dessert pairing.

October is the perfect time to indulge in the season’s flavors while enjoying true Northern Michigan wines from the Petoskey Wine Region. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive fall gathering, these pairings will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Cheers to cozy fall evenings and great wine!