As the cooler months approach, refreshing your beverage lineup can do more than fit the season—it can drive sales. Here’s how to create a fall drink list that resonates with your guests and keeps them coming back.
Warm Up with Bold Reds and Rich Whites
Fall calls for wines that bring warmth and comfort. Bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Malbec are perfect with fall staples like roasted meats, stews, and hearty root veggies. For white wine lovers, rich oak-aged Chardonnays or spicy Viognier offer the depth needed for pairing with heavier meals.
Pro Tip: When picking your seasonal wines, match the weight of the wine with the heartiness of the dish. For fall, go for fuller-bodied choices like Syrah or Merlot—they’re perfect for those cozy, rich meals without overpowering them. The goal? Let the wine elevate the food, not overshadow it.
Pairings That Take the Guesswork Out of Dining
Many diners appreciate a little guidance when choosing wine. Offering curated pairings on your menu simplifies the process and encourages more sales. Try pairing a robust Cabernet Sauvignon with a Moroccan-inspired roasted vegetable tagine made with local fall produce like carrots and parsnips.
Pro Tip: Integrate wine pairings directly on your fall drink list by adding a brief suggestion next to each dish, like “Pairs perfectly with a bold Syrah.” Alternatively, create a “Chef & Sommelier’s Picks” section for easy reference. Use icons or symbols for visual cues, and ensure your staff is trained to confidently recommend pairings. Simple, accessible guidance can boost both guest satisfaction and wine sales.
Pour it by the Glass, Watch Sales Soar
Offering wine by the glass lets guests explore your list without committing to a full bottle. It’s a win-win: they get to try more, and you increase sales. Focus your fall drink list to feature wines like Barbera or dry Riesling, which can complement dishes like roasted brussel sprouts or a beetroot salad.
Trend Alert: Health-conscious customers are on the rise. Wines rich in antioxidants, like polyphenol-packed red blends, are gaining popularity. Highlighting these can tap into the demand for healthier choices.
Cozy Cocktails to Capture the Season
Fall cocktails are all about embracing warm, comforting ingredients like apple, cinnamon, nutmeg, and of course, pumpkin spice. With the pumpkin spice market projected to grow from $1.1 billion in 2023 to $2.4 billion by 2031, tapping into this trend can elevate your seasonal offerings. Classics like a Spiced Old Fashioned or a Beetroot Ginger Mule can offer a seasonal twist while drawing in customers who crave these quintessential fall flavors.
Pro Tip: Pumpkin spice syrups and concentrates can be used to customize cocktails and mocktails. Garnishing with cinnamon sticks or star anise will enhance both the flavor and the Instagram-worthiness of your drinks, perfect for attracting millennial and Gen Z guests.
Mocktails That Make a Statement
As the sober-curious movement continues to grow, it’s important to offer mocktails that are just as exciting as your cocktail menu. With growing demand for healthy and functional drinks, pumpkin spice can even make its way into your mocktail lineup. A Pumpkin Spice Iced Chai or a Cinnamon-Apple Sparkler could hit the mark for guests who want seasonal flavor without the alcohol. The trend toward organic, clean-label ingredients also pairs well with the use of natural spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Pro Tip: Use ingredients like ginger, apple cider vinegar, or probiotics in your mocktails to cater to the growing demand for gut-health-friendly options. Mocktails presented with the same care and garnish as cocktails can also elevate the experience for non-drinkers.
Keep It Local, Keep Them Coming Back
Consumers are getting more selective and 2024 trends show they’re leaning toward supporting local. As wineries celebrate the harvest season, it’s the perfect time to highlight local wines. Featuring them not only supports your community but also gives your menu a unique selling point.
Pro Tip: Partner with local winemakers for exclusive releases or limited-edition fall wines. These touches create urgency and excitement, enticing diners to try something special.
Your Team: The Secret Ingredient to Selling More Wine
Your staff plays a crucial role in selling wine. Make sure they’re confident in recommending wines and pairings. A quick training session on the fall menu can make a huge difference in both knowledge and sales.
Pro Tip: Set up a mini wine-tasting session for your team so they can connect with the wines they’ll recommend. The more they believe in the product, the better they’ll sell it.
Elevate Your Fall Drink List, Elevate Your Sales
By featuring local wines, leaning into health-conscious options, pouring by the glass, and shaking up seasonal cocktails and mocktails, you can craft a fall drink list that not only hits the mark but also drives sales. Stay ahead of the trends and keep things fresh as the season goes on—your guests will love it, and your bottom line will too.
Need help curating the perfect fall drink list? Get in touch with us for tailored solutions that fit the latest trends and boost your restaurant’s sales.
