Dare to discover these hauntingly delicious combinations of Paso Robles Wine and autumnal flavors. Picture rustic pumpkin patches, nostalgic hayrides and wineries adorned in autumnal splendor. But why stop at the scenery? Don’t worry–we’re not suggesting anyone go out of their way to try “Pumpkin Spice Wine.”
This Halloween, elevate your trick-or-treating with some frightfully good wine pairings. Paso Robles wines offer bewitching companions to classic Halloween candies from Snickers to Skittles (not to mention a range of savory fall snacks). Explore how the region’s finest vintages can transform fall flavors into a grown-up indulgence!
Chardonnay with Candy Corn
Over the decades, traditional candy corn has inspired legions of fans (and just as many enemies). But whatever you think about the old school candy, don’t sleep on this Paso Robles Halloween candy and Paso wine pairing. The buttery, creamy texture of chardonnay complements the sweet, honey-like flavor of candy corn. Meanwhile, the wine’s subtle oakiness balances the candy’s sugary profile. The result: A whimsical pairing that proves Paso wine can be both sophisticated and playful. All you need is a rich, oaked Chardonnay to enjoy this experiment. Who knows, maybe candy corn is ready for its big comeback?
Pairing suggestion: 2018 CaliPaso Chardonnay
An autumnal blend of Burgundian style and California sunshine, you couldn’t ask for a better post trick-or-treat reward. Aged one year in toasty oak, CaliPaso Winery & Villa’s full-bodied chardonnay offers a complex flavor profile that’s both rich and balanced. I Buy it Now
Savory snack: Candy corn not your thing? No worries. Enjoy the 2018 CaliPaso Chardonnay with a luxurious bowl of gnocchi cloaked in silky butternut squash sauce (recipe). Mouthwatering just to read it, right? Both rich and fresh, you’ll find the chardonnay pairs nicely with aromatic sage and caramelized squash.
Rhone Red Blend with Snickers
Believe it or not, but a complex Rhône-style blend finds an unexpected soulmate in Snickers. This seriously satisfying pairing is nothing short of black magic: The intricate dance of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre brings out the best in the classic candy bar’s caramel, nougat and salty peanut layers. Plus, the wine’s spicy notes and berry flavors cut through the candy’s richness, coaxing out a surprisingly elegant balance. Whether you’re sipping a bold red from Châteauneuf-du-Pape or a luscious GSM from award-winning Paso Robles Wine Country, prepare for a taste sensation that’s sure to satiate!
Pairing suggestion: 2021 CASS Wines Rockin’ One Red
Cass Wines’ enticing red blend marries Mourvèdre, Syrah, Grenache and a dash of Petite Sirah in a symphony of fall notes: including chocolate covered cherries, licorice and warming cinnamon. Need we say more? Swirled in the glass, this garnet beauty brings about aromas of raspberry cordial and red cherry, while the palate dances with notes of raspberry, vanilla and a whisper of earth. Essentially, #fallvibes in a bottle. I Buy it Now
Savory snack: Looking for a more substantial meal this spooky season? We got you, boo. Enjoy CASS Wines Rockin’ One Red wine with coconut-curried-pumpkin soup (recipe) and ooey-grilled cheese sandwiches. Tip: For a fun twist, try this recipe paired with a Rhone white, like CASS Wine’s harmoniously-honied 2023 viognier. Either way, you’re going to serve up “cozy” on a platter. I Buy it Now
Cabernet Sauvignon with Twix
As jack-o’-lanterns flicker and leaves crunch underfoot, prepare for a haunting encounter with Paso’s most iconic varietal. Simply unwrap a Twix and let the magic pairing unfold: The wine’s bold, tannic structure stands up to the candy’s layers — crunchy biscuit, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate — creating a terrific taste sensation. With each sip, dark fruit notes complement the chocolate coating, while hints of green pepper and spice cut through the caramel’s sweetness. Any full-bodied Napa Valley or fruit-forward Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon will do the trick.
Pairing suggestion: 2019 Venteux Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
This Paso potion from Venteux Vineyards brings the essence of autumn to your wine glass. Expect a symphony of blackcurrant, black cherry and blackberry notes, harmonizing with hints of green bell pepper and fall spices. The Adelaida District-sourced fruit whispers subtle tobacco and vanilla tones from oak aging, adding depth and complexity to your fall wine experience. I Buy it Now
Savory snack: For a seasonal feast, pair this bold Cab with a hearty beef stew, rich with root vegetables and herbs (recipe). The wine’s robust tannins will cut through the richness of the stew, while its fruit flavors complement the savory notes.
Bold Red Blend with Dark Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses
As the veil between worlds, conjure up a pairing that’s wickedly indulgent: A big, fruit-forward red blend from Paso Robles dances with the dark allure of Hershey’s Special Dark Kisses. While these dainty, foil-wrapped candies seem unassuming, they transform into something beastly when paired with the right red blend: The wine’s luscious fruit flavors and velvety texture embrace the reliable richness of dark chocolate, weaving a spell of lush complexity. For best results, seek out a fruity, bold red blend that strikes the perfect balance of body, structure, and flavor — a supernatural potion, indeed.
Pairing suggestion: Chronic Cellars 2021 El Perfecto
This enchanting elixir from Chronic Cellars offers sumptuous aromas of black cherry, leather, herbs and chocolate, swirling with a devilishly enticing violet top note. The rich, structured palate is black magic in a bottle: A blend of Zinfandel, Tempranillo, and Petite Sirah that conjures up enticing chocolate-dipped cherries and licorice flavors. Kick back and sip slowly as the wine and chocolate dissolves in your mouth (see if you can spot those mysterious hints of coffee and black tea). I Buy it Now
Savory snack: So easy it’s scary: Pair Chronic Cellars El Perfecto with a platter of dark chocolate-covered fruits and nuts — a simple appetizer that’s sure to cast a spell on your guests. For a more elaborate offering, conjure up some Prosciutto Wrapped Prunes, a playful match for El Perfecto’s vibrant character (recipe).
Sparkling Wine and Skittles:
Summon a pairing that’s effervescently enchanting! A sparkling wine from Paso Robles simply glitters alongside Skittles, a spellbinding Halloween pairing. While these rainbow-hued candies may seem like kid’s stuff, they metamorphose into flavorful gems when paired with the right sparkling wine. Crisp acidity and fine bubbles waltz with the intense fruitiness of Skittles, a reanimating experience for your tastebuds.
Pairing suggestion: Robert Hall 2021 Cavern Select Sparkling Grenache Blanc
This mesmerizing elixir from Robert Hall shines with bright lemon peel, apple blossom and crushed stone, swirling with a satisfyingly crisp top note. The lively, refreshing palate is akin to fairy dust, liquified: Fine bubbles dance through flavors of apricot and papaya, balanced by mysterious hints of minerality. With each sip, notes of citrus complement the candy’s bright flavors, while the effervescence casts a cleansing charm.
Savory Snack: Give ‘em an earthy app to ground the glitz in their glass. Robert Hall Winery’s 2021 Cavern Select Sparkling Grenache Blanc slays when paired alongside ghostly Goat Cheese and Sage Stuffed Mushrooms (recipe). These bite-sized morsels are a stellar savory counterpoint to the wine’s crispness (drizzle with gourmet Pasolivo Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a rich, Paso Robles finish). Buy it Now
More Halloween Candy and Paso Wine ideas
Rhone White with Starburst
The floral and citrus notes in a Rhone White Wine (Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne are great choices) complement the juicy, fruity flavors of Starburst. The wine’s roundness and acidity balance the candy’s sweetness! Try a fragrant Rhone White (or blend) from the Côtes du Rhône or Paso Robles Wine Country.
Pairing suggestion: Halter Ranch 2022 Viognier I Buy it Now
Pinot Noir with Kit Kat
The light, red fruit flavors and silky texture of Pinot Noir pair wonderfully with the wafer and chocolate layers in a Kit Kat. The wine’s bright acidity and subtle earthiness enhance the candy’s sweetness. While warm Paso Robles is known for bolder Pinot Noir offerings, find more delicate versions of the varietal grown in cooler Edna Valley.
Pairing suggestion: Sculpterra Winery 2021 Pinot Noir I Buy it Now
Zinfandel with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Zinfandel’s jammy fruit flavors and spicy notes complement the peanut butter and chocolate in Reese’s cups). The wine’s richness and slightly higher alcohol content match the candy’s creamy texture. Go for a bold Zinfandel from Paso Robles, a speciality of the region!
Pairing suggestion: Peachy Canyon 2021 West Side Zinfandel I Buy it Now
See you in Paso Robles this fall!
Savor even more fall flavors in Paso Robles: Plan the ultimate fall Paso Robles Wine trip today! With plenty of festive pumpkin patches, fall harvest events and seasonal farm-to-table experiences, autumn is a truly delicious time to explore Paso Robles Wine Country’s 200+ tasting rooms, incredible restaurants and cozy vineyard stays. Check out these great Paso Wine guides and itineraries in Paso Robles.
