As the autumn season rolls in, pumpkin and squash make their grand return to our tables. These versatile vegetables present rich, sweet, and earthy flavors, which make them the stars of countless dishes, from soups and stews to roasts and pies. Pairing wine with pumpkin and squash can enhance these dishes and bring out their full range of flavors. Explore the pairings suggestions below to ensure your fall meals are perfectly complemented.
Pumpkin and Squash Flavor Profiles
Pumpkin and squash come in a variety of types, and each with its own unique flavor profile. Pumpkins, especially varieties like sugar pie and butternut squash, are known for their sweet and slightly nutty taste. Winter squashes like acorn and delicata offer rich, buttery flavors. The key to a successful wine pairing lies in matching the wine’s profile with the sweetness and earthy notes of these vegetables.
White & Rosé Wines
Riesling
Why It Works: Riesling is a stunning pairing option for pumpkin and squash. Medium-dry selections in particular offer a touch of sweetness alongside bright acidity that pairs well with the rich flavors of these vegetables. The wine’s fruity notes balance the earthy and sweet elements of pumpkin and squash.
Serving Suggestion: Pair Riesling with a pumpkin and sage risotto with ghee roasted hazelnuts. The wine’s acidity cuts through the creaminess of the risotto while complementing the pumpkin’s sweetness and the earthy flavor of sage.
Pinot Gris
Why It Works: Pinot Gris exhibits light body, crispness, and subtle notes of green apple and pear making it a versatile choice for pumpkin and squash dishes.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Pinot Gris with a roasted delicata squash and kale salad with goat cheese and avocado. The wine’s bright acidity complements the caramelized sweetness of the squash as well as the apple cider vinegar used to make the creamy tahini vinaigrette.
Chardonnay (Oaked)
Why It Works: Oaked Chardonnay, with its buttery texture and notes of vanilla and toasted oak, pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of pumpkin and squash dishes.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy oaked Chardonnay with a creamy butternut squash soup. The wine’s buttery notes enhance the soup’s smooth texture and the squash’s natural sweetness.
Rosé
Why It Works: Rosé is often a versatile pairing option with its balanced acidity and hints of red fruit. Its freshness and lightness enhance the flavors of these autumn vegetables without overpowering them.
Serving Suggestion: Pair a dry Rosé with a pumpkin and feta cheese tart. The wine’s acidity and fruitiness balance the tart’s rich flavors and complement the sweetness of the pumpkin. Another option is to enjoy a chilled glass of rosé with a roasted acorn squash with thyme and parmesan. The wine’s refreshing nature complements the sweetness of the squash and the herbal notes of thyme.
Red Wines
Pinot Noir
Why It Works: Pinot Noir, with its bright red fruit flavors and earthy undertones, pairs beautifully with pumpkin and squash. The wine’s acidity and subtlety enhance the flavors of these vegetables without overwhelming them.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Pinot Noir with a pumpkin and mushroom stew. The wine’s earthy notes complement the mushrooms and balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Zinfandel
Why It Works: Zinfandel’s bold flavors and spicy notes make it a great match for pumpkin and squash dishes, especially those with a bit of heat or sweetness.
Serving Suggestion: Pair Zinfandel with a spicy pumpkin curry. The wine’s fruitiness and spice complement the curry’s complex flavors and balance the heat of the dish.
Merlot
Why It Works: Merlot, with its smooth texture and flavors of plum and chocolate, works well with squash. The wine’s soft tannins and rich fruit flavors complement the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy Merlot with a beautiful plate of penne with roasted butternut squash and caramelized onion. The wine’s fruitiness enhances the sweetness of the squash and the rich flavors of the onions.
Sparkling Wines
Crémant d’Alsace
Why It Works: Crémant d’Alsace is a sparkling wine made from grapes grown in the cool climate of Alsace, France and in the same traditional way as its famous northern cousin, Champagne. This means you can enjoy many of the same characteristics of Champagne without the hefty price tag. Crémant d’Alsace’s bright acidity and effervescence make it a delightful pairing for rich pumpkin and squash dishes.
Serving Suggestion: Pair a dry Crémant d’Alsace with pumpkin and goat cheese fettuccine with crispy sage. The wine’s effervescence cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Italian Frizzante
Why It Works: Italian frizzante is a gently sparkling Prosecco. The wine’s light, fruity character and gentle bubbles make it a versatile choice for pumpkin and squash dishes. Its refreshing nature enhances the flavors of the vegetables and adds a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestion: Serve a frizzante with a squash and apple salad. The wine’s fruitiness complements the sweetness of the squash and apples, making for a refreshing and balanced dish.
Pairing wine with pumpkin and squash can elevate your fall meals and bring out the best in these versatile vegetables. By understanding the flavors and characteristics of both the vegetables and the wines, you can create harmonious pairings that enhance your dining experience. Cheers to delicious autumn meals and perfectly paired wines!