One of the disadvantages of writing ahead of time is that the weather can change dramatically by the time you read it. I enjoyed my morning coffee outdoors in the bright sunshine this morning. However, for the first time there was a distinct chill in the air, and I suspect it may be my last al fresco breakfast this year.
Once the leaves start to turn it can be time to change our wine choices a little. I will cover red wines next week, but now is the time to move over to more textured white wines that work perfectly with autumnal food. These are wines that protect and fortify us against the autumn chill. They are generally less aromatic, and more about mouthfeel and body.
Chardonnay, chenin blanc, godello, viognier, and sémillon all offer a bit more presence, a pleasing richness that seems just right on cooler evenings. Served blind, some of them could pass as a red wine if served at room temperature. Richer whites are sometimes best served just lightly chilled so take them out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving. You will get so much more flavour from your wine.
These wines go very well with all kinds of rich creamy dishes. Think about chicken and pork with mushrooms, creamy pasta dishes or root vegetables and cauliflower cheese. If you are splashing out, they also go very nicely with lobster, scallops and prawns as well as mild Asian curries.
Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2023 Chassaux & Fils
13%, €9.99
New to Aldi, this has plush ripe melon and stone fruits with a twist of spice. Perfect with creamy dishes. Fish pie or cauliflower cheese. From Aldi
[ If wine vintage is so important then why isn’t it always on the label?Opens in new window ]
Leyda Chardonnay Reserva 2023, Leyda Valley, Chile
13%, €14.95
An unoaked Chardonnay that is rich and satisfying. Expect creamy exotic fruits and refreshing lime zest. Enjoy alongside mild rich curries, creamy chicken or mushrooms. From O’Briens
The Wolftrap 2022, Boekenhoutskloof, South Africa
13%, €15
Medium-bodied with textured exotic fruits, a toasty background note and plenty of mouth-watering citrus. Drink by itself, but better with spicy grilled prawns or roast root vegetables. From Jnwine.com; The Counter, Letterkenny; Grange Wine, Donaghadee; The Crafty Vintner, Belfast
[ Greek red wines are a treasure trove of unique grape varietiesOpens in new window ]
Viognier 2023, Château Beauchêne, Côtes du Rhône
14.5%, €22
A very seductive full-bodied wine layered with lavishly textured apricots, peaches and a touch of woody spice. Calls out for food: creamy chicken curry or buttery scallops. From Whelehan’s, Loughlinstown
