Wine and Spirits: October Surprises for Fans

If you're into political science, you're probably familiar with the term "October Surprise," which usually refers to events that could affect the political outcome.

I've been thinking about that phrase lately - not because I'm a political zealot, but because I've had so many unusual drinks this month; wines that I might not have seriously considered turned out to be enjoyable; spirits that took an unexpected turn off the usual path, even wines from regions that had never been on my radar.

I, since it's Halloween, there's also a "hit or miss!" surprise here as well So, without further spoiler warnings and in no particular order, here's what made it onto my 'October Surprise' list,''which will probably become my new annual tradition. After all, who needs another story about a selection of Halloween candy and wines.

Three roses to get you through the fall.

I'm still drinking rosé! Surprised? I'm not. Thanks to an unusually warm October, there were plenty of days to enjoy structured rosé, whether on the patio or with seasonal meals (I did both!).

"Les Commandeurs" (2022) from Peyrassol of Cotes du Provence is a traditional GSM blend that is light on its feet with notes of small strawberries and a hint of tangerine, but also expresses an earthy and herbaceous/anise/liquorice accord that pairs well with transitional menus. This grape is made from typical reds of the region with the addition of a few other local varieties, and its signature wine''features a lighter flavor - I can save a bottle for Thanksgiving when you need a fresh palette cleanser between heavy meals.

Clos represents the apex of the winery, produced from a privileged lieu-dit-like plot. This expression is more tropical and fruity with stone and orchard fruit, but despite its light hue, it has a complexity and structure that make it suitable for fall drinking.

Malbec gets a new incarnation.

When you think there's nothing new to say about malbec, there really isn't. Terrazas de los Andes, a producer from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza's Uco Valley, is introducing a limited edition "parcel" wine made from''pleasing in flavor; R: The union of Scottish and... [+] French traditionsProducers

Marine whisky hits the market.

This summer, Old Pulteney introduced a series of single malts in the US with an unusual marketing strategy, calling it 'sea whisky, the influence of the sea'. Abandoning the expected Speyside or Highland references, the drink instead draws on its proximity to the North Sea - indeed, calling the new line "Coast" and aging it in casks by the sea.

The collection will eventually include four types that will be released annually, and this Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes is the first of exactly that, and is named after the ex French oak Pineau des Charentes barrels in which it has been aged for some time.''This expression has pleasant orange zest, sweet vanilla and sweet spicy oak spice complementing the bright, sweet fruit notes. Smooth and warm with hazelnut notes and an aftertaste of slightly salty minerality.

Spanish grapes find a new home in New Mexico

VARA Winery and Distillery Spanish grapes find a new home in New Mexico. I was pleasantly surprised by the selection of wines from VARA, an Albuquerque-based producer that makes wine from Spanish varieties. The grapes are sourced from elsewhere and then delivered to the winery where the brand''says it's a tribute to the connection between Spain and New Mexico.

Mencia was a darker version of what I've tasted in Bierzo and Ribeira Sacra, with deep black fruit and an almost bitter-grassy aftertaste, and it was enjoyable. It matched the acidic, dry fruit profile and dry tannins. It was served with salmon and served slightly chilled.

The Tinto Especial Vara also showed red and black fruits with raspberries, creating an atmospheric Pinot Noir with fruit and earthy flavors. It was bright, with great enthusiasm - a smooth presentation.

Albarinho (2021), labeled as an American White Wine, was flavorful-lemon cream and salty, making me drool immediately out of my mouth. And in the mouth, it did not disappoint! Medium-bodied,'''Creamy, richly textured, this was a satisfying wine with a delicious interplay of ripe yellow fruit, spicy herbal notes and a slightly caramel aftertaste.

The wines of Armenia get their own club.

Armenia is just starting to appear on the radar for its well-made wines and is gaining fans in the inner circles of connoisseurs (keep an eye on this column for a report). But now it has a club of its own. Launched this month, Storica Wine Club, created by Armenia's leading importer of fine wines, offers three levels of membership: $120 for a selection of four wines, $160 for six, and $280 for a box representing the country's diverse styles (shipping discounts vary).

• 120 dollars for''a choice of four screws
• 160 dollars for six
• 280 dollars a box