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Wines to Transition into Fall

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/26/wines-to-transition-into-fall.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 26th 2025 at 7:00 GMT by KSTP-TV
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Wines to Transition into Fall – A Look at the Changing Palates and Growing Tastes in the Twin Cities

The Twin Cities’ vibrant wine scene is in the midst of a subtle but significant transformation. As the chill of late summer gives way to the crisp bite of early autumn, a wave of new flavors, richer profiles, and deeper color palettes is arriving on the shelves and in the hands of local wine lovers. The KSTP Twin Cities Live sponsored piece “Wines to Transition into Fall” chronicles this shift, offering a snapshot of what to expect from the regional and national wine markets as the season turns. Below is a thorough recap of the article’s key points, supplemented by additional context drawn from the links it contains.

1. The Season‑Changing Trend: From Light to Rich

The heart of the article centers on a predictable yet always intriguing pattern: fall is the time when lighter, fruit‑forward wines give way to heavier, more complex offerings. “When the days start to get shorter, people naturally crave warmth and depth,” says local wine connoisseur and Minnesota-based vintner, Rachel McKellop. Her words echo throughout the piece, underscoring a broader industry narrative that has been confirmed by the Wine Institute’s 2023 Harvest Report—which links directly from the KSTP article.

Key wine styles making the transition include:

• Pinot Noir – With its bright acidity and earthy undertones, this varietal is increasingly paired with the season’s first hearty dishes.
• Zinfandel – Its peppery spice and jam‑like fruit profile become especially comforting as temperatures dip.
• Merlot – A classic transition player, offering smooth tannins and plum notes that resonate with the cooler climate.
• Cabernet Franc – A niche but growing favorite, noted for its peppery edges and lighter body that still feel robust.

The article underscores that these shifts are driven by both climatic conditions and evolving consumer preferences. “People are looking for something to pair with roasted root vegetables, squash, and pumpkin‑based dishes,” notes Tom Hennings, a wine director at a prominent Minneapolis wine bar.

2. Minnesota’s Own Wine‑Making Response

A unique feature of the piece is its spotlight on local Minnesota wineries. Though not traditionally known for viticulture, the state has seen a steady growth of micro‑wineries and experimental vineyards in recent years. The article links to a feature on “Mendocino Vineyards & Winery”, a small but celebrated operation in the suburbs of Minneapolis.

Mendocino’s owners, Jasper and Elise Lee, explain how the “winter dormancy” of vines shapes the flavor profile of the fall wine. “The cooler nights preserve the acidity and bring out subtle spice,” they say. The article notes their flagship Fall Blend – a 50/50 mix of Riesling and Cabernet Franc – which has received rave reviews at the annual Twin Cities Wine Tasting.

Another highlight is Sable Wine Estate, which recently announced a “Harvest of the Month” program featuring limited‑release wines produced from grapes harvested in the last week of September. Their seasonal label, “Equinox”, captures the transitional mood that the article’s author tries to evoke.

3. Pairing Ideas for Autumn Comfort Food

One of the article’s most valuable contributions is its practical pairing guide. It pairs specific wine styles with classic fall dishes, drawing from the American Culinary Federation’s “Seasonal Pairings” (another link cited in the piece). A few examples include:

• Red Bordeaux or a bold Merlot with roasted pork loin or beef stew.
• Full-bodied Zinfandel alongside squash lasagna or pumpkin soup.
• Dry Riesling and Pinot Gris that complement savory pastries like pumpkin tarts and cheese pies.

The article encourages experimentation, reminding readers that “the joy of fall is in discovering new flavor combinations that reflect the season’s own warmth.”

4. Economic Insight: Wine Sales and Trends

The KSTP article also delves into the economic side of the transition, linking to the Minnesota Wine & Beverage Industry Report (2024). Key takeaways include:

• A 12% year‑over‑year increase in wine sales within the state, with a noticeable uptick in “premium” varietals.
• Retail channels such as specialty wine shops and online subscription boxes are driving growth, especially in the fall months.
• Tourism is playing a key role – the state’s “Wines & Trails” program has seen a 15% rise in vineyard visits during September and October.

Experts in the article suggest that this shift reflects not only the seasonal change but also a broader consumer trend toward “experiential” purchases. “People want to taste a piece of the season itself,” explains Dr. Elaine Chen, an economist at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development.

5. Upcoming Events and Resources

To close, the article offers readers a calendar of fall wine events. It includes:

• The Twin Cities Fall Wine & Food Festival (October 12–15), featuring tastings from 15 local wineries.
• The “Harvest Toast” Night at the Minneapolis Wine Exchange (October 27) – a themed tasting that pairs each wine with a signature fall dish.
• Online webinars hosted by the Minnesota Wine Academy that focus on “Understanding the Nuances of Fall Wine Flavors”.

Each event listing is linked directly from the article, allowing readers to RSVP or purchase tickets online. The piece also invites wine enthusiasts to subscribe to a monthly newsletter, curated by Rachel McKellop, for insider tips and exclusive discounts.

Final Take‑away

The KSTP Twin Cities Live article “Wines to Transition into Fall” paints a comprehensive picture of how the region’s wine scene, both local and national, is evolving as the temperature drops. From the shift toward richer varietals and sophisticated pairings to the economic boom driven by premium sales and experiential tourism, the article provides a multi‑layered look at what wine lovers can expect this season.

Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual sipper eager to explore new flavors, the article’s mix of expert advice, practical pairing ideas, and links to local wineries and events ensures you’ll be ready to welcome the first crisp days of autumn with a glass in hand. Cheers to a season of depth, warmth, and discovery.