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Wine for Bonfires: Seasonal Pairings That Work

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There’s something about a bonfire that makes everything slow down. The crackle of wood, the glow of embers, the way conversations seem easier in the firelight—it’s one of those timeless fall rituals.


And while beer and cider usually get the spotlight at backyard fires, I’ve learned that wine belongs there too. In fact, the right glass can make a chilly night feel warmer, a plate of comfort food taste richer, and the whole experience just a little more memorable.


So let’s talk about wine pairings that actually work for bonfires—seasonal, approachable, and perfect for fall nights under the stars.

Why Wine Works at the Fire


Wine and bonfires share something in common: they’re both about slowing down. You don’t chug wine, and you don’t rush a fire. Both invite you to settle in, savor, and let the moment stretch.


And fall flavors—smoky meats, roasted veggies, gooey desserts—play beautifully with wines that bring warmth, spice, and depth.

Pairing With Savory: Meats Off the Fire


Bonfire food doesn’t need to be fancy. A few skewers, foil packets, or leftovers from the smoker are all you need. And wine is the perfect match.


  • Smoked Sausages or Brats → Zinfandel. Bold, jammy, and full-bodied enough to hold up to smoke and spice.

  • Chicken Wings or Drumsticks → Rosé. Crisp, refreshing, and a great palate cleanser after rich, smoky bites.

  • Pork Ribs or Pulled Pork Sliders → Cabernet Sauvignon. Big flavors deserve a big wine—cab brings tannins and depth that balance the richness.

Pairing With Vegetables: Roasted and Charred


Fall is the season for hearty veggies, and the fire brings out their sweetness.


  • Foil-Pack Mushrooms with Garlic and Butter → Pinot Noir. Earthy meets earthy, and the pairing feels almost magical.

  • Grilled Squash or Sweet Potatoes → Chardonnay (oaked). The creaminess of the wine mirrors the caramelized veggies.

  • Charred Peppers or Onions → Syrah/Shiraz. Smoky, peppery, and bold—like it was made for the fire.

Pairing With Dessert: Sweet Treats by the Fire


Bonfires and dessert go hand in hand. Whether it’s s’mores or skillet cobbler, wine can elevate the sweetness.


  • Classic S’mores → Port or Tawny Dessert Wine. Rich, chocolate-friendly, and perfect for gooey marshmallow nights.

  • Apple Crisp or Pie → Riesling (off-dry). Sweet enough to match the apples, crisp enough to cut through butter and sugar.

  • Dark Chocolate Squares → Malbec. Bold red + dark chocolate = an unbeatable fireside treat.

A Glass for Just the Moment


Not every bonfire has food—and that’s okay. Sometimes it’s just about the drink itself.


  • Merlot: Smooth, mellow, easy to sip while you’re swapping stories.

  • Sparkling Wine: Because nothing says “this moment matters” like bubbles, even if you’re sitting in lawn chairs by the fire.

  • Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced, and cozy. Bonus points if you make it in a cast iron pot over the fire itself.

Why It Matters

Bonfires are about connection. So is wine.


When you pair them, you create a ritual—one that’s seasonal, grounding, and joyful. It doesn’t have to be pretentious. It doesn’t have to follow strict rules. It just has to taste good and make you feel present in the moment.


Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the perfect pairing. It’s about the people around the fire, the stories you tell, and the memories you make.

Final Word


This fall, when you gather by the fire, bring a bottle of wine. Try Zinfandel with sausage,


Riesling with apple crisp, or Pinot Noir with mushrooms. Or skip the food and sip something smooth while you watch the sparks rise into the night.


Because wine doesn’t just belong at the dinner table—it belongs wherever life feels most alive. And sometimes, that’s by the fire. 🍷🔥

 
 
 

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