Discovering An Unsung Wine Hero For Fall

This week I found myself perusing the wine aisle in my neighborhood Publix looking for a wine to bring to a Halloween party. One of my go to brands is Casillero del Diablo from Chiler. When translated it means Cellar of the Devil. It's perfect for Halloween, affordable and has a variety grapes including Carmenere, which is like discovering an unsung wine hero for fall. When considering the characteristic of this grape and  Southwest Florida cuisine, Carmenere wines for fall can be a perfect food match.

Chile produces a lot of different wine. But carmenere has become a flagship over the years. It originated in France where it was commonly blended in Bordeaux. In Chile, it was originally confused with merlot grapes in the fields. Today, it is the fourth most planted grape in the country.

Carmenere is a cross between cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc that has a range of textures and flavors. However, one thing that is consistent is the peppery and herbal characteristics. Those herbs are so good with fall squash, roasted meats and soups. I've heard it referred to as the cabernet for vegetarians.

I recently attended a virtual tasting and educational seminar on carmenere. The hosts gifted me wines from all regions and elevations to try along with other journalists. All were different. All screamed for foods like the ones we typically see this season. Next time you see one, try it.

The number of Halloween events in Southwest Florida are too many to count. It's a fun time of the year and the kickoff to the rest of the holiday party season. If you are attending an event or throwing one, there are so many options when it comes to themes, décor and food. Almost too many. I am going to help narrow down the food part for your Halloween soirees whether they are for the adults, the kids, or both. If you are stuck, maybe you'll find some inspiration in these videos. Here five ways to boost your Halloween food game for TikTok Tuesday.

I love this crazy, creepy holiday and so does just about everyone else on social media. My TikTok feed has been full of Halloween related videos from costumes to décor and everything in between. If you have not decorated or carved your Halloween pumpkins yet, here are some great videos from last week that might help out.

All of those videos are great. However, the ones that have really been catching my eye are those dealing with food, fun appetizers, desserts and even entrees. They not only use seasonal ingredients but they also have added twists that will make your friends, family and kids say, "Cooool." I did not include the traditional "Mummy Dog" here. That is where you wrap a hot dog in strips of pastry dough to look like a mummy. I figured everyone already knows about this one.

You don't have to have a TikTok account to view the videos. Just scroll down and hit play from this post. All videos are office and kid friendly. There are some really easy ideas as well as some that take a little more effort. I've even thrown in a bonus video for parents at the end.

So this isn't acutally a pizza bite made with sweet pumpkin puree. It's a savory bite made into the shape of a pumpkin. It really is smart and creative. Not to mention it looks delicious. And you can customize the ingredients, using all of your favorites.
https://www.tiktok.com/@chefgenevieve/video/7278092989732506926?_r=1&_t=8gVLkKu07fa

There is something about eyeballs for Halloween that people love. And there is something about deviled eggs at a party. If you have any Easter Egg dye left over, pull it out for these. I've seen this done with blue food coloring for the eyes and a slice of olive in the middle for the iris. It's a little more authentic than this green. However, this gives you the idea.

These cheesy eyeballs are so versatile. You can make them and put them on a plate for a snack, add them to a cheese and charcuterie board, or do what this guy did. He made a bouquet of skewerd goodies for a Halloween gathering. It takes a little effort but the outcome looks worth it.
https://www.tiktok.com/@nikkalcaraz/video/7023058111254564102?_r=1&_t=8gVOIPlnluN

Speaking of cheese and charcuterie boards, this is how you make one for Halloween. All you need are a couple of pieces from a skeleton and a long wooden board to take it over the top. This is so easy, so cute, and so delicious. You can really get creative with this as a base. Good for any Halloween party.
https://www.tiktok.com/@foodplattermum/video/7281539798639185154?_r=1&_t=8gVNvzmMKMN

I know there are plenty of sweets to go around for Halloween. However, I have to include one dessert. Especially one that has a bit of savory and is so cool looking on your table.

Quesadias are quick, easy and kid friendly. If you struggle with getting the little ones to eat before a Halloween event, perhaps this will help.