Too old for trick or treating? Don’t despair — one of the best parts of being an adult in October is putting a 21+ spin on Halloween traditions.
Sure, you could sneakily steal your kids’ candy and eat it all by yourself, but wouldn’t that indulgence taste better with a nice, glass of English Newsom Cellars wine? Surprisingly, junk food like Halloween candy can (and should!) be paired with wine.
Join to pair some of your favorite, classic Halloween candies with the best wine varietals, so you can easily make your night go from spooky to tipsy.
~ Dry Reisling & Skittles ~
Dry Riesling’s zesty acidity and citrus-driven profile make it an unexpectedly perfect partner for the rainbow burst of Skittles. Each sip slices through the candy’s sugary coating, highlighting the tart fruit flavors and cleansing your palate for the next pop of color. The wine’s crisp minerality balances the sweet-sour contrast of the candy, creating a playful dance of bright lemon, lime, and tropical notes. It’s a grown-up way to “taste the rainbow”—refined, but with a wink of mischief
~ Rainey Rosè & Sour Patch Kids ~
Rainey Rosé’s vibrant berry flavors and crisp acidity make it a natural match for the sweet-and-sour punch of Sour Patch Kids. The wine’s fresh strawberry and watermelon notes mirror the candy’s fruity base, while its dry finish and zippy acidity tame the sour zing like a charm. The result? A playful push-pull of tart and sweet that keeps your taste buds on their toes. It’s like a mischievous Halloween trick—with a deliciously grown-up treat.
~ Mourvèdre & Reeses Peanut Butter Cup ~
Dark, brooding Mourvèdre may seem intense for candy—but pair it with a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, and magic happens. The wine’s earthy undertones, dark berry fruit, and whisper of spice play off the roasted peanuts and milk chocolate like a gourmet upgrade to a childhood favorite. Mourvèdre’s tannins cut through the candy’s creamy texture, grounding the sweetness with savory depth. It's a bold, unexpected duo—decadent yet grounded, like Halloween for grown-ups who still know how to treat themselves.
~ Tempranillo & Milky Way ~
Tempranillo’s warm notes of dried cherry, cocoa, and a touch of leather make it a surprisingly luxurious partner for the soft, creamy sweetness of a Milky Way bar. The nougat and caramel center melt into the wine’s subtle spice and oak, creating a silky-smooth mouthfeel with just enough structure to keep things grounded. Tempranillo adds hints of vanilla and tobacco, echoing the chocolatey richness of the candy. It’s like a fireside dessert in a glass—sophisticated, soothing, and just indulgent enough for a Halloween nightcap.
~ Flirt Sweet Red & Red Vine ~
Flirt Sweet Red Wine, with its juicy notes of ripe berries and hint of soft sweetness, is a flirty match for the chewy, cherry-bright flavor of Red Vines. The wine’s fruit-forward profile mirrors the candy’s strawberry-red licorice tones, while its smooth finish tames the synthetic sweetness with a grown-up touch. Together, they create a whimsical balance of nostalgia and elegance—like sipping cherry punch at a masquerade ball. Light, sweet, and a little cheeky, this pairing is perfect for a playful Halloween night-in or this candy-themed wine flight.
