Well, the weather certainly has changed for the … better? In any case, it is noticeably colder, grayer and darker out there, which is inextricably linked somehow to wine drinking. I personally enjoy every change in season, but the shift from summer to fall gets me a bit more excited than usual. The comfort foods of fall always taste better when paired with the right wine, and there is nothing like relaxing in front of the fire with a glass of port in hand. With Thanksgiving around the corner we have some new wines and recommendations that are sure to offer something extra special to your table.

2004 Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape - $26.99
The latest installment in our series of bargain priced, high quality Chateauneuf du Pape. One of the top estates in Chateauneuf is that of the brothers Thierry and Jean-Pierre Usseglio. Their cellars are just north of the village, adjacent to the walls of the Pope’s palace for which the village is named. Made from 90% Grenache, with a round velvety palate showing sweet fruit, black pepper and Provencal herbs. Try this with your next prime rib dinner.

2007 Ribera Vineyards Stormy Morning Pinot Noir – $16.99
As many of you know, I am hopelessly in love with the 2007 vintage in the Willamette Valley. These wines are elegant, expressive and ridiculously food-friendly. They are also disappearing quickly, particularly in favor of the highly rated 2009 vintage. But never fear, we have managed to hang on to a supply of ‘07s, and thankfully so, because these wines are just starting to show their potential.

2010 Haden Fig no. 52 Pinot Noir – $16.99
From certified organic and biodynamic Johan Vineyard comes winemaker Erin Nuccio’s newest Pinot Noir. Minimally handled and fermented in a large wood fermenter, this wine shows Old World-winemaking quality. Tart cherry flavors, violet tones and Asian spices combine in this elegant wine that is easy on the pocketbook, too.

Quinta do Infantado Ruby & Tawny Port – $15.49
I proudly consider myself a big dork when it comes to Port, and so I was appropriately thrilled when my favorites came back to the Portland market after a short (but not short enough) hiatus. The Quinta do Infantado offers some of the highest quality ports at extremely reasonable prices, pairing perfectly with a roaring fire and bearskin rug.