As autumn paints its landscape in golden hues, our taste buds eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall's top flavors. While pumpkin spice has become synonymous with the fall season there are so many more ways to celebrate the flavors of fall with each one a celebration of nature's bounty. What makes these flavors so appealing isn't just their taste; it's also the memories and warmth they weave in our hearts.

Top Five Fall Flavors

1. Pumpkin - The Symbol of Autumn's Arrival

Pumpkin, with its vibrant orange hue, isn't just a vegetable; it's a symbol of fall's arrival. Its sweet, earthy taste lends itself to an array of dishes, from velvety soups to decadent pies. The appeal lies in its versatility, transforming ordinary recipes into extraordinary creations. The moment we savor that first bite of a pumpkin-spiced treat, we're transported to cozy evenings by the fireplace, wrapped in the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg.

This versatile gourd is most often found in desserts and baked goods.  But one of our favorite ways to use pumpkin is to sneak it into a pot of chili. No it doesn’t taste like pumpkin pie in fact, its deliciously undetected and loaded with vitamins. It’s become our Halloween tradition to serve Turkey Pumpkin Chili with fresh out of the oven Smoked Jalapeno Cornbread. 

I have two go to wine picks when it comes to chili. The first and favorite is a chilled glass of champagne. I just love the fun effervescence and how the acidity balances the creamy goodness of the cheese and sour cream that is undoubtedly piled on.  The second, it a dark fruit forward Syrah.  The spice and green notes of the wine enhance the tang and spice of the chili.

2. Cinnamon - A Warm Embrace in Spice Form

Cinnamon, with its comforting aroma, is like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Its distinctive, slightly sweet flavor adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes. In fall, it finds its way into apple crisps, chai lattes, and spiced stews. The appeal of cinnamon lies not just in its taste but in its ability to evoke nostalgia. It's the scent that fills Grandma's kitchen, promising love and warmth in every dish.

Cinnamon plays a starring role in this exotic and flavorful slow cooked Moroccan Lamb Stew from Paleo Leap.

A medium to full-bodied red wine such as a Syrah, Tempranillo, or a Rhône blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) would complement the rich, beautifully complex spiced flavors of the lamb stew.

A medium to full-bodied red wine such as a Syrah, Tempranillo, or a Rhône blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) would complement the rich, beautifully complex spiced flavors of the lamb stew.

3. Apple - Nature's Crispy Gift

Apples, plucked fresh from orchard trees, embody the crispness of fall mornings. Their sweet-tart flavor is as versatile as it is delicious, gracing everything from salads to desserts. Biting into a juicy apple is like tasting the essence of the season. It’s a reminder of harvest festivals and countryside orchard picnics, bringing a smile with each crunchy, flavorful bite.

The thought of fresh picked apples immediately had us dreaming of dessert, especially sweet and bubbly apple crisp (naturally!), but for a savory dish we are crushing on this Apple & Sage Roast Chicken.  It’s a fall dinner winner for sure combining intoxicating earthy sage and the subtle sweetness of roast apples.

Much like pairings for a traditional turkey dinner, we recommend Chardonnay to pair with this soul soothing chicken dish.  Oaked or unoaked either works nicely, providing a balance to both the chicken and apples. However, if you prefer red wine, a light and fruity Pinot Noir could be a fantastic choice.

When it comes time to tuck into that apple crisp, a late-harvest Riesling will complement the sweetness wonderfully.

4. Cranberry - The Tangy Jewel of Fall

Cranberries, with their vibrant red hue, add a tangy burst of flavor to fall recipes. Their appeal lies in their ability to balance sweetness with a delightful tartness. Cranberry sauces, salads, and desserts are autumn staples, their zesty flavor awakening the taste buds. Beyond their taste, cranberries remind us of the changing leaves and the anticipation of the holiday season, making every dish they grace feel like a festive occasion.

For a something fresh and healthy, whip up this vibrant Cranberry & Walnut salad serve as a side dish or add a little leftover roast chicken for a light yet satisfying lunch.

A crisp and refreshing white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio would work well with the tartness of the cranberries and the richness of the walnuts.

5. Salted Caramel - The Irresistible Indulgence

Salted caramel, with its perfect balance of sweet and salty, is the epitome of fall indulgence. Its appeal lies in the way it elevates ordinary treats into extraordinary desserts. Whether drizzled over apple pie, swirled into ice cream, or infused into lattes, salted caramel adds a decadent touch to fall delicacies. With each spoonful, it captures the essence of fall evenings, where laughter mingles with the scent of bonfires, creating moments to cherish.

Check out this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Parfait from Love Grows Wild. It’s a fun and decadent twist on a pumpkin dessert.

I don’t know about you, but usually by dessert I’m pretty much wined out. Sure, there are many wines that would easily pair with this dessert, but I can’t help but feel the ultimate pairing would be mug of your favorite spiked hot coffee drink like this Amaretto Coffee.

Fall flavors aren't just tastes; they are memories waiting to be savored. With each bite, they invite us to embrace the season’s warmth, to relish in the simple pleasures, and to celebrate the beauty of change. So, as the leaves crunch beneath our feet, let’s raise a glass, toasting to the irresistible allure of fall's top flavors.

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