Hosting Made Easy with Dundee Hills Wines & Pairings
October is right around the corner, and it’s the perfect month to gather friends, family, and neighbors for something simple and meaningful—an evening of food, wine, and connection. That’s the ethos of Come Over October, a nationwide initiative from all of us in the wine industry. At the heart of it all, we know sharing a glass of wine goes beyond the bottle itself; it’s about embracing the joy of being together.
The right wine can elevate any gathering, but that doesn’t mean hosting has to be complicated. Here are a few fun, seasonal pairings to make your October get-togethers memorable, featuring Dundee Hills wines that reflect the rich diversity of our region’s vineyards.
Bubbles & Burgers
Who says sparkling wine is just for special occasions? Here in the Dundee Hills, bubbles make everything better—especially burgers! Pair your favorite sparkling wine with juicy burgers fresh off the grill.
For a twist that complements the effervescence, top your burger with creamy brie or tangy blue cheese, caramelized onions, and a few slices of crisp bacon. The soft, buttery flavors of a brioche bun perfectly match the delicate notes found in our local sparkling wines. Simple yet indulgent, this pairing will set the tone for an evening of laughter and conversation that dances along with the bubbles in your wine.
Dundee Hills Sparkling Wine Producers
Cozy Season Comforts
When the air turns crisp, there’s nothing like the earthy, warming flavors of fall—especially when paired with Dundee Hills red wine. Whether you’re serving a velvety Pinot Noir, a spicy Syrah, or a rich Tempranillo, these wines are beautiful complements to the heartier dishes of the season.
Sweet potato fries, salads sprinkled with fresh pomegranate, Sloppy Joes, or slow-cooked beef brisket will highlight the nuanced flavors in the glass. Add in a charcuterie and cheese board featuring aged cheddar and crisp apples, or whip up a creamy butternut squash risotto, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a cozy night in.
Dundee Hills Pinot Noir Tempranillo, Syrah, and more.
Let’s Grill
In the Dundee Hills, our volcanic Jory soil gives the wines an unmistakable character—a subtle, earthy depth that pairs perfectly with grilled or smoked dishes.
For a gathering that brings warmth to a chilly October evening, fire up the grill and pair a local white wine with seafood options like grilled filets or smoked fish dip. Mussels sautéed in white wine served with grilled bread and fresh ricotta make for a light yet flavorful dish. This combination of smoky, spicy flavors with crisp, mineral-rich whites will make for an unforgettable October feast.
Dundee Hills Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and more.
This fall, why not raise a glass to the friendships that enrich our lives? Invite a few people over, open your favorite Dundee Hills wines, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being together. Because at the end of the day, it’s these moments that make life truly meaningful.
