As we enter fall, my favorite season in the kitchen and at table, it’s time for our latest seasonal 12-pack of essential Kermit Lynch selections that, on average, clock in at $20 a bottle and answer the questions: What are the exceptional village and regional bottlings currently available that deliver outstanding terroir character and great bang for your buck? And which bottles can we not keep our hands off at this time of year?
      During this new season, I look to rosés like Chanteleuserie’s Bourgeuil and Sesti’s Tuscan rosato, which deliver a little more red fruit and roundness to match the fuller flavors and heft of my roasts. As for whites, it’s nice to have a range, from the crisper and more ethereal examples—like Colleleva’s Verdicchio and Quenard’s Abymes—to the more textured and luscious renditions like Clos Sainte Magdeleine’s Méditerrannée blanc.
      An assortment of reds is also essential. Carlotto’s Schiava, from the Dolomites, and Cantine Valpane’s Barbera are both delicious and fruit-forward, excellent pasta and pizza candidates. Meanwhile, Durban’s Vaucluse rouge and the Pic Saint Loup both deliver irresistible stoniness and spice that complement stews, braises, and roasts so well. Benoît Cantin’s Irancy is somewhere in between—a beautiful Pinot for duck breast or steak night.
      For our last version of this sampler in 2025, check back in December, but for now, here are twelve bottles that are perfect for your friends’ autumn potlucks or a cozy night in.