Dr. John's Prescription for Halloween Treats

Wednesday, October 7, 2026

 

Perfect Pour Rx    Halloween 2026

Comfort foods based around Pumpkins and Fall Flavors

For Roasted Pumpkin and other squashes with sage, brown butter, risotto, etc.,

    Try a dry Chenin Blanc (French Vouvray - $25, or a Washington State L’Ecole 41 Old Vines Chenin Blanc - $20.)  Another idea would be a lightly Oaked Chardonnay (Chateau St. Michelle Indian Wells Chardonnay - $18.)

  These wines have sufficient body and bright acidity to match well with the rich nutty flavors of pumpkin and sage while enhancing the natural sugar flavors of the roasted pumpkin.

 

For Creamy Pumpkin soups or other similar pasta dishes:

     Try a bubby wine like Prosecco (Kirkland Asolo Prosecco DOCG - $12) or a smooth red like a new world Pinot Noir (Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir (~$20–$24)

     The Prosecco will clean your palate after tasting the rich texture of a pumpkin soup. The Pinot Noir will balance well with the dish if there are mushrooms , thyme, pancetta, or other earthy elements in the soup, without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.

 

For Pumpkin Pie:

            Try a Moscato d’Asti  (Vietti Moscato d’Asti (Italy) - $18), or a sweet (late harvest) Riesling wine (German Riesling Spatlese, typically $20) or Chateau Ste. Michelle Harvest Select Riesling (~$10–$14). These wines are as sweet as the pie and their stone fruit flavors and acidity will complement the baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves) in the dessert.