The Fall Season is Upon Us
NOTE: These excerpts have been reproduced from a newsletter that was originally published in October 2026. To read the original newsletter in full, click the link at the bottom of this page.
COOLER TEMPS BRING OUT DIFFERENT MOODS
Dear Reader,
It’s mid-October and there’s no doubt (if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere) that Fall is well in swing. The days are shorter, the nights longer and the temperatures are decidedly cooler. Though I have to say that in Toronto, we’ve been enjoying some nice weather. My fingers are crossed that it stays around just a wee bit longer…
As the season changes from Summer to Fall, it is quite natural to transition what is in our wine glass to suit the season. For most of us, the high-toned white wines and flowery rosés that are such hits in the summer feel less desirable at this time of year. We often want something a bit more warming and characterful.
Though I’m not personally fully ready to abandon summer, so I’m not reaching for the biggest and boldest wines in my collection just yet. If you’re feeling the same way, I have four suggestions for you:
if you’re a white wine lover
try a white from Burgundy (they are often oaked and have some body);
if you’re a red wine lover
have a Pinot Noir or light Gamay (these wines still benefit from a bit of a chill and don’t have massive structures but are earthy and smell like Fall);
if you’re a rosé lover
go for a rosé from the Tavel AOC in France (a lot more structure here than a Provençal rosé!); and
if you’re willing to be adventurous
have a sherry. Any style will do, though my personal favourite is a Manzanilla or a Palo Cortado style.
I’m Back in the Classroom!
Not as a student this time but as a teacher! :)
I’ve returned to the University of Toronto as a practical session instructor, teaching a roomful of students majoring in everything from business to the arts to stem-related disciplines about the fine art of wine appreciation.
This is my second time doing this. I’m super impressed that a major Canadian (and international) university like U of T is offering a credit-bearing course in wine and giving students the opportunity to hone understanding and skills that will bring them joy for years to come.
I’ve written an article about my reflection on what this opportunity is teaching me, as much as what I am trying to teach my students. Click the link to read the article on my publication The Body of Wine.
Drop me a line and tell me what’s in your wine glass these days. I always love to hear from you!
Cheers! xx