With harvest season upon us, it’s time to break out the fall favorites. Boots and scarves, pumpkin spice and everything, and our personal recommendation: M Cellars 2018 Estate Meritage and a harvest-themed charcuterie board. This pairing is a perfect complement to a sunny Autumn afternoon picnicking amongst falling leaves, or a crisp evening in front of the fire.

The Wine: M Cellars 2018 Estate Meritage

A world-class dry red blend, this “old meets new” style wine will draw your full attention with its bold personality. While frequently ranked among the world’s highest-rated bottles, Meritage (stemming from “merit” and “heritage”) is rare for this region. In fact, M Cellars the only estate grower in Ohio. A Meritage, by design, is a New World wine crafted in the traditional Bordeaux style, created from a combination of two or more approved, region-specific grape varieties. Our 2018 Estate Meritage is blended from estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petite Verdot, and aged to perfection in Hungarian oak. Smooth yet robust, it boasts notes of blackberry, toasted nuts, spice, and tobacco. You can order your 2018 Estate Meritage from our online store for pick-up, or, in certain states, for delivery right to your door. 

The Board: Harvest-themed Charcuterie

While our Meritage also pairs beautifully with savory red meat and hardy vegetable entrees, we love the playfulness of charcuterie. A harvest-themed board is a fun and delicious way to celebrate the season.

Try the following selections:

Cheese: A variety from different families—here are some that feel like fall: aged Sharp Cheddar, warm Camembert, buttery Manchego and Danish Blue.

Charcuterie: Thinly sliced prosciutto and herb-crusted salami. Toss in some smoked maple bacon for even stronger Autumn vibes.

Bread: Thinly sliced, toasted French baguette and artisanal crackers.

Fruit: Fresh pear slices and halved pomegranate. Dried figs.

Nuts and seeds: Candied pecans and roasted pumpkin seeds.

Condiments: Honey and apple butter.

Arrange artfully. Sprinkle a few sprigs of sage along with some loose pomegranate seeds. Pour your Meritage, and you’ve got yourself a cornucopia of harvest-season happiness.