As February draws to a close, we can officially say summer is behind us. While we all hoped for a stress-free summer full of sunshine, this wasn’t how things panned out. For many Tamborine locals, the reality of the year thus far has been a jumbled melange of rainy days, worrying headlines, isolation, and flood warnings.

As we welcome Autumn, some days still feel hot and muggy – the threat of even more rain hanging thick in the atmosphere. On other days there’s a definite chill in the air that catches us off-guard – can it really be March already? But looking around, there are several trees already starting to turn – green leaves fading softly into amber and yellow. The changing of the seasons is a great way to step back from the hubbub and take stock of the year thus far and check in with the world around us.
Autumn is a beautiful season and a welcome relief for those of us who can’t tolerate the heat and humidity. When it comes to wine, there are some delicious grape varieties that embody the essence of this season. Read on for four recommendations on the best wines to drink this Autumn.

Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red, Pinot is the perfect wine to ease you into the idea of cooler months ahead. It’s light enough to drink on warmer days (and can be chilled, too) but definitely has an autumnal feel to it. Being a thin-skinned grape, Pinot Noir has a delicate tannin structure. It’s well-known for its earthy flavour profile, with some styles displaying aromas of forest floor and mushrooms alongside fruity primary notes of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. Oaking adds further warmth, highlights the wine’s earthiness, and may impart a hint of spice or vanilla too.

Touriga: often called Touriga Nacional, has a little more body than Pinot. This thick-skinned grape creates a rich, smooth red wine with a resplendent purple colour. Originally a Portuguese varietal, there are many Australian vineyards that now cultivate Touriga. Aromatically divine, you may pick up on hints of violet, mint, or nutmeg on the nose, while the palate is juicy and fruit-forward. Think plump blueberries and sweet & sour cherries. Yum! 

Tempranillo: Not too light, not too heavy. This medium-bodied red wine reflects the in-between nature of the season. Tempranillo will warm you from the inside out with notes of jammy figs, smoky tobacco, and baking spices. If you ever come across a vineyard of Tempranillo grapes, come autumn-time, you’ll discover the leaves of the grapevine turn a bright, vibrant red. 

Arinto: while red wine tends to increase in popularity come Autumn & Winter, there are many whites that also suit the season. Arinto is perfect for Autumn because it’s often barrel-aged in oak, adding depth and warmth to what is already a citrusy, moreish, refreshing white.

Cheers,
 Alexandra Douglas and the Witches Falls Winery Team