The vineyards are cloaked in fog, and the moon casts a ghostly glow over the winery….Is it just the chill from the cellar, or is there something spooky in the air? Now’s the perfect time to pour yourself a little treat to taste by the light of a jack-o’-lantern.
If you plan to host a Halloween gathering or are just settling in for a cozy night by the fire, these wines are here to cast their spell. If you’re brave enough to uncork a bottle, we have lots of suggestions for spooking pairings for our favorite Raeburn Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Mysterious Red: Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir always knows how to make an entrance. Its silky texture and bright flavors are perfect for everything from costume-party snacks to midnight movie marathons.
Frightfully Fun Pairings:
- Mummy Dogs (pigs in a blanket wrapped in pastry bandages). The crisp pastry crust the loves Pinot’s soft tannins.
- Charcuterie with blackberries and brie. This sweet and savory combination is like a special spell in every bite.
- Twizzlers or cherry licorice. Dig into the candy bowl and discover how the fruitiness of Pinot plays right along with some sweet treats.
- Popcorn for a scary movie night. For an extra “boo-tiful” touch, add a sprinkle of truffle salt.
The Golden Spirit: Chardonnay
Smooth, sultry, and a little bit glamorous, Chardonnay proves you can be rich and bold. Toasty oak mingles with crisp apple and pear, for distinctly fall flavors.
Spine-Chilling Pairings:
- Buttered popcorn drizzled with caramel. The buttery layers echo each other in all the right ways.
- Candy corn (yes, really!). Surprisingly, this colorful candy is perfect with a creamy, oak-aged Chardonnay.
- White chocolate bark with almonds. Rich, nutty, and creamy, this pairing is completely enchanting.
- Pumpkin mac and cheese. Nothing says “autumn” like a cozy twist on a classic!
The Midnight Thrill: Cabernet Sauvignon
Dark, bold, and a little brooding, Cabernet is the vampire of the wine world. It’s powerful, elegant, and best enjoyed by candlelight with hearty bites and decadent treats.
Devilishly Good Pairings:
- BBQ short ribs or burgers from the cauldron (grill). Cabernet’s deep flavors and tannins tame smoky richness.
- Dark chocolate truffles. The deeper and darker, the better.
- Mini Snickers or Milky Way bars. Caramel, nougat, and chocolate meet their perfect match.
Hosting Tips from the Haunted Cellar
- Set the scene: Dim lighting, flickering candles, and a playlist of old-school Halloween hits keep things fun.
- Go “trick or taste”: Create a candy and wine flight and let guests guess the best match.
- Stay spooky but simple: Wine glass charms shaped like bats or pumpkins are festive without fuss.
- Remember balance: A little sugar, a little salt, and a sip of wine between keep your palate happy all night.
When the doorbell stops ringing and the last candy wrapper rustles, pour one more glass and toast to the season. Happy haunting, and even happier sipping!