uncorked:

From Summer to Fall- A Transition

September marks a huge month in the wine calendar. That being harvest season in the Northern Hemisphere. From California to Bordeaux, winemakers are carefully timing their picks to ensure the perfect balance of sugar, acidity, and tannin in their grapes. It’s a period of long days and critical decisions, as the quality of the vintage depends on everything from weather patterns to the moment each vineyard block is harvested. For wine enthusiasts, this is the ideal time to learn more about the journey from grape to glass and to appreciate the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

As the seasons shift, September also invites a natural transition in what we drink. While bright, refreshing wines like Sauvignon Blanc or rosé still have their place, many customers begin reaching for wines with more structure and complexity. Medium-bodied reds such as Pinot Noir, Grenache, or Chianti Classico offer versatility, pairing beautifully with both late-summer produce and the heartier dishes that accompany cooler evenings. Fuller-bodied whites, including Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, also make excellent seasonal choices, offering texture and depth without overwhelming the palate. Personally, I love a nice full body Chardonnay as the weather beings to cool.

One standout worth exploring right now is the San Simeon Chardonnay 2022. It’s full-bodied yet balanced, with bright fruit layered against creamy texture and just the right touch of oak. The wine carries both freshness and weight, making it a perfect companion for roasted chicken, buttery seafood, or even a cozy bowl of pasta. It’s a beautiful expression of California winemaking and a great bottle to usher in the season.

On the other hand, if you’re still holding on to the last of summer, you can’t go wrong with our OE Grenache cans. Light, juicy, and deliciously versatile, they’re just as happy chilled for a tailgate as they are alongside a weeknight dinner. Sometimes the season calls for a little structure—and sometimes it calls for an easy sip straight from the can.

Or, for those who prefer something timeless, you can’t go wrong with Cappone Chianti Classico. Elegant, food-friendly, and brimming with red fruit and savory notes, it’s a classic bottle that pairs beautifully with everything from pasta night to grilled meats.

For those eager to explore, September is an excellent month to visit us and try some wines we may have open on a Thursday or join our wine club and get three unique bottles hand-picked for the month. In-store, we recommend using this month to expand your fridge with transitional wines that bridge summer and fall. Whether you are looking for a crisp yet layered white or a food-friendly red, our wine section at Kelly’s is going to make sure we have just the right bottle you are looking for.

 ~Tanner