Halloween might be known for costumes and spooky decorations, but it is also a great opportunity to indulge in a variety of delicious treats paired with incredible wines! Whether pairing with sweet candies or savory snacks, the options are endless. Let’s explore the best wine pairings for ten of the most popular Halloween treats to ensure your festivities are both fun and flavorful.
1 – Candy Corn and Sparkling Wine
Candy corn is a Halloween classic! It offers a sweet and slightly chewy texture alongside a flavor profile that ushers in thoughts of marshmallow and honey. To complement this nostalgic treat, try pairing it with a bubbly sparkling wine, such as Prosecco, Champagne, or Sekt. The crisp acidity and effervescence of sparkling wines will balance the sweetness of the candy corn for a refreshing combination. Try a flight of sparkling wines with varying degrees of sweetness to unveil an ideal pairing that enhances the festive spirit of this Halloween original.
2 – Chocolate Bars and Cabernet Sauvignon
Rich, dark chocolate bars are often a favorite during Halloween (and just about any other day of the year, too). The bold flavors of dark chocolate pair beautifully with a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s tannins and notes of dark fruit enhance the chocolate’s richness, making for a decadent treat. Look for a Cabernet from Napa Valley or Bordeaux for the best results.
3 – Caramel Apples and Chardonnay
Caramel apples are a quintessential fall treat, and their sweet, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with a Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery notes and hints of apple will echo the flavors of the caramel and the fruit, creating a harmonious pairing. Opt for an oaked Chardonnay for a richer taste that complements the sweetness of the caramel, or an unoaked Chardonnay that better lifts the apple’s crisp taste profile. Better yet, try pairing both an oaked and unpacked Chardonnay side-by-side to learn about your own personal preferences.
4 – Pumpkin Pie and Riesling
While not exactly a Halloween-specific treat, all things pumpkin become popular desserts as we move closer to Thanksgiving. Pumpkin pie is the royalty of autumn sweets. A sweet or medium-dry Riesling makes an excellent pairing with pumpkin pie. The wine’s natural acidity cuts through the richness of the pie crust, while its fruity notes of apple and nectarine enhance the spiced flavors within the pumpkin filling. Look for an Old World-style Riesling for an optimal match.
5 – Gummy Bears and Rosé
Gummy bears bring a playful and fruity element to Halloween treats. To elevate this candy, try pairing it with a Rosé. The wine’s bright acidity and berry flavors will complement the fruity notes of the gummies, which creates a fun and light pairing that is perfect for casual gatherings. Choose a dry Rosé from Pinot Noir grapes for a refreshing touch.
6 – Savory Snacks and Pinot Noir
If you are serving savory snacks like popcorn or cheese platters alongside your Halloween treats, a Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. It offers a balance between fruity and earthy notes as well as soft tannins that complement a variety of flavors. Look for a Pinot Noir from Oregon for a versatile option that will please most palates.
7 – Chocolate-Covered Pretzels and Merlot
The combination of sweet and salty in chocolate-covered pretzels calls for a smooth Merlot. The wine’s plush fruit flavors and subtle chocolate notes pair perfectly with the rich chocolate coating. Also, its softer tannins won’t overpower the salty pretzel. This pairing is ideal for a cozy Halloween movie night!
8 – Cinnamon and Nutmeg Treats and Gewürztraminer
Again, while not exactly Halloween treats, fall sweets that feature warm baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg pair well with Gewürztraminer. This aromatic wine has floral notes and a hint of sweetness that can enhance the flavors of the spices and creates a delightful autumn-inspired combination. Gewürztraminer is often a sweet wine (but not always!), so serve it with spiced cookies, apple crisp, or pumpkin bread.
9 – Candy Apples and Sauvignon Blanc
We have covered the caramel apple, so now it is time to bite into its famous cousin: the candy apple! Candy apples, with their crunchy exterior and sweet flavor, pair beautifully with a zesty Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s crisp acidity cuts through the sweetness of the candy, while its citrus notes echo the apple’s natural flavor. This pairing is a refreshing way to enjoy a classic Halloween treat.
10 – Cheese and Fig Jam Board with Port
For a sophisticated Halloween snack, create a cheese board featuring sharp cheeses, dried fruits, and fig jam. A rich Port pairs beautifully with this spread, enhancing the flavors of the cheese and providing a luxurious finish to your Halloween celebration. Port is available in several styles, but the two classic styles are ruby and tawny. While ruby ports pair well with blue cheeses, a tawny port might better enhance the saltier cheeses on your board, such as cheddar and gruyere.
Pairing wine with Halloween treats can elevate your celebration and add a sophisticated twist to your festivities. Sweet candies, savory snacks, and decadent desserts each welcome a perfect wine pairing to enhance every flavor. So gather your friends, uncork a bottle, and indulge in a spooktacular evening filled with delightful treats and fantastic wines.