By: Nikki Scott
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — that is, the time our favorite television shows return to the small screen. After a summer of Netflix rerun bingeing, nothing could be more welcome than something new to watch. Of course, you’ll want to make sure to pair your viewing experience with the perfect bottle of wine. Make some popcorn, put on your favorite show, and pour yourself a generously sized glass. Our recommendations will be available to wine club members soon!
Favorite Show: The Mindy Project
Recommended Pairing: Pinot Noir
Dr. Mindy has been known to prescribe herself copious amounts of wine to cope with her frequent romantic mishaps. While we don’t condone reckless self-medication, a nice glass of juicy, cherry-scented Pinot Noir certainly never made going through a breakup any more difficult unless you drank the entire bottle and left a regrettable voicemail.
Try: 2012 J.K. Carriere “Vespidae” Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Favorite Show: Bob’s Burgers
Recommended Pairing: Zinfandel
What goes better with a juicy burger than a big juicy Zin? Make sure to pour yourself an extra-large glass to wash down all that dry humor.
Try: 2012 Bucklin “Bambino Old Hill Ranch” Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley, California
Favorite Show: Law & Order: SVU
Recommended Pairing: Vinho Verde
Now entering its 17th season, this highly addictive show boasts its very own drinking game. If you dare to play, choose your wine carefully — perhaps a crisp Portuguese Vinho Verde, with just 10% alcohol, would be a wise choice. Or you can just play our simplified version: drink every time you get depressed that Elliot Stabler is no longer on the squad.
Try: 2013 Aphros “Ten” Vinho Verde, Portugal
Favorite Show: Modern Family
Recommended Pairing: Sparkling Rosé
Like any family, the Pritchards and the Dunphys have gone through their share of difficult times together, but eventually they always remember to appreciate one another and have fun. And what’s more fun than sparkling rosé? Nothing, that’s what. Take a break from the chaos of life and enjoy. You deserve it.
Try: 2012 Raventós i Blanc Cava Rosé, Spain
Favorite Show: Scandal
Recommended Pairing: Rhône Blend
It could be argued that no one on television takes wine more seriously than Olivia Pope, and it is a true testament to her badassery that she manages to somehow never spill a drop of red on those luxe, creamy-colored coats she’s always wearing. While Liv’s favorite (and presumably very pricey) ‘94 du Bellay Châteauneuf-du-Pape is, in fact, a fictional cuvée, you can still sip a Grenache- or Syrah-based Rhône (or Rhône-inspired) blend while cheering on your favorite gladiator. Wear dark colors.
Try: 2011 Fausse Piste “Super MSG!” Rhône Blend, Yakima Valley, Washington
Favorite Show: The Last Man on Earth
Recommended Pairing: Whatever you can find.
What if the world ended tomorrow and you left behind a whole cellar full of unconsumed wine? That would be a real tragedy. Since you’re not Phil Miller and the world is still alive and kicking, unfortunately you can’t just waltz into your local abandoned bottle shop and take your pick. Instead, seize the day and open up a special bottle you’ve been saving for “someday.”
Try: 2012 Ovid Bordeaux Blend, Napa Valley, California
