The Best Wines for This Fall

Culture

| LAST UPDATE 09/26/2021

By Kimberly Knapp
best seasonal port wines
Instagram via @vinkreutzer

As the weather outside begins to chill, our wardrobe isn't the only thing that'll be getting an upgrade. From warm, floral flavors to limited-edition bottles, these seasonal wines are the perfect companion while you're cozied up by the fireplace or hosting your next dinner party. So, what are you waiting for? Go and grab that glass while we unveil the ultimate Fall drinking guide.

best port wine seasonal
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First up on our list: Tawny ports. Rich in flavor and character, the barrel-aged blends range from about 10 to 40 years old. Of course, the older the bottle, the heftier the price tag. But let's begin with our more reasonably priced options. Voted the "Best Tawny" by Liquor.com, Cockburn's 20-year-old Tawny is a great starting point. Featuring dreamy aromas of butterscotch, toffee, and honey, the sweet blend is bound to satisfy any sweet tooths. And given Cockburn's reputation for top-quality products? The $44+/500ml bottle price is worth every penny.

cockburn port wine best
Instagram via @cockburns_port

Up next, 19th-20th century vintages exclusively from Symington Family Estates - one of the world's largest port producers. "They are stunning today, and I believe they will age beautifully over many decades," head winemaker, Charles Symington, assured. From Dow's 2019 floral Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira (around $75) to the limited-edition Single Quinta Vintage set (about $400), the coveted collection has got something for everyone.

dow's best port wine
Instagram via @Dows_Port

Last but not least, for those looking to truly treat themselves, look no further than Taylor Fladgate's recently launched 1896 blend. The 125-year-old single harvest port is as rich in flavor as it is in luxury. Each of the 1,700 carefully crafted bottles produced come packaged in a bespoke decanter of Scottish crystal, concealed in a luxury cherrywood case. To top it off? The $5,500 purchase includes a signed certificate from Taylor's Managing Director, Adrian Bridge, and a booklet detailing the 1896 Single Harvest.

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"The launch of a wine as old, valuable, and unique as this one occurs only a handful of times in a generation," Bridge proudly explained. "Savoring such a wine is a once-in-a-lifetime experience." Whether you're a wine connoisseur looking to expand your collection or are simply looking for your new favorite (affordable) dessert wine, we hope this guide brings warmth to your home this Fall season…

And on that note, cheers.