As the harsh summer heat eases and we begin to feel the cool night breeze, autumn attire gradually takes center stage at the dining table. Autumn is the season of fruitfulness. Mushrooms, chestnuts, swordfish, sweet potatoes…When you start to see ingredients that are rich in the energy of the earth, it’s natural to go from crisp, chilled white wine to red wine that can be enjoyed moistly at room temperature.

This time, we will be proposing wonderful red wine pairings that will complement each autumn taste.

◆ Mushroom dish × Pinot Noir The most representative taste of autumn is the various types of mushrooms. Sauteed or made into risotto, it has a rich earthy aroma that is appealing. What you want to pair with this is Pinot Noir, which is typical of the Burgundy region of France. As Pinot Noir matures, it emits complex aromas reminiscent of the depths of the forest, such as mulch,'' truffle,’’ and ``wet fallen leaves.’’ The earthy flavor of the mushrooms and the aroma of the wine go together to create a marriage that will make you feel like you are strolling through an autumn forest.

◆ Salt-grilled fatty saury × Chianti Classico Forget the stereotype of ``white wine with fish’’ when it comes to saury fish. A light red wine actually goes well with the bittersweet taste of the internal organs and the aroma of the burnt soy sauce. The recommended wine is Chianti Classico (Sangiovese variety), which is produced in the Tuscany region of Italy. The moderate acidity and cherry-like fruit flavor washes away the stubborn fat of the swordfish, and the flavor of the soy sauce blends in strangely. The key is to drink wine slightly chilled (14 to 16 degrees).

◆ Roasted sweet potatoes and chestnuts × Zinfandel For a sweet and chewy ingredient, try Zinfandel from California, USA, which has a rich fruit flavor and high alcohol content. The sweet aroma of jam-like berries and the nuances of spices such as cinnamon and cloves gently envelop the sweetness of sweet potatoes and chestnuts. It’s also fun to enjoy it as a dessert while relaxing after a meal.

Just like matching the color of the food with the color of the wine, try incorporating a little deeper red into your dining table this fall. Delicious food and wine will make your evening even richer.