Wait on the “Steak Wine.” It’s Still Burgers (and Fall).

Well, here we go. Fall reminds everyone of something… sweaters, fireplaces, pumpkins.

As the owner of a small business, it reminds me of sore feet, a creaky back, and good returns. BUT, I certainly remember the carefree days of my youth, and in that youth I drank red (mind you, I mostly drink white now).

What I look for in the autumn days is a red that reflects the season. Dry leaves, wet earth, game…

I am definitely late on a staff dinner this year, and we have been trying to get a “burger” pairing dinner scheduled and it’s murdering me. Tentatively we might have 10/24 fixed… we’ll see. But that almost is the definition of fall cooking + drinking. Grilled burgers with a creamy situation on top, fries with a great aioli, a baller potato salad (maybe with a dab of caviar). What would YOU pair with that?? My thought is earthy to complement the beef, and some acidity to cut through the fat. But I don’t want to go all the way to ‘steak wine’ because it is still burgers (and fall).

I look to Cru Beaujolais, Morgon specifically.
Georges Duboeuf Morgon Jean Descombes 2023 750ml
Louis Claude Desvignes Morgon Javernieres 2024 750ml

Anything Rioja or Ribera del Duero with some age… Reserva or Gran Reserva.
Ramirez de la Piscina Rioja Crianza 2021 750ml
R. Lopez de Heredia Tondonia Reserva 2013 750ml

Keeping it stateside, I think Oregon Pinot is perfect for the season… and we still have some awesome bottles from the auction earlier this year.
Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir “Gravite” Auction Lot 2024 750ml
J. Christopher Pinot Noir “Mission Control” Auction Lot 2024 750ml

I will try all three and report back.

In the meantime, if the weather is as amazing as it is here in New York… uncork a nice bottle of Pinot Noir or Grenache, put your feet up on the porch, and appreciate life.