This October marks the launch of the inaugural “Come Over October” initiative—a celebration designed to bring people back to the heart of what makes wine so remarkable: its ability to connect us. Created by the much-respected wine writer Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible, with support from wine PR and marketing specialists Gino Coangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, the initiative is a call to revive the tradition of welcoming others into our homes and sharing a bottle of wine. It’s a gentle reminder that wine’s purpose goes beyond the glass—it’s meant to be experienced with others, to spark conversation, and to turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.
Of course, we recognize that this October may look different for some, especially for those affected by unforeseen hardships, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Helene or other personal challenges. We are with you. Whether you’re gathering loved ones around your table or simply raising a toast from afar, the spirit of Come Over October isn’t limited to physical proximity. It’s about rekindling connections in whatever way is meaningful to you, even if that’s just a quick phone call to a friend or the intention to carve out time for small, shared moments.
It’s no secret that our lives have become increasingly fragmented and busy. The rise of remote work and endless virtual meetings has turned face-to-face gatherings into rare, cherished occasions. Just bringing friends over that you cherish, opening a few bottles, and letting the evening unfold without an agenda can feel like a luxury. The ethos of Come Over October is to bring back those moments. Whether it’s a casual weeknight get-together or a long-overdue dinner party, it’s about celebrating the communal spirit that wine has embodied for millennia.
There’s no need to overcomplicate things. After all, some of the most memorable gatherings are the least planned—the kind where the focus isn’t on perfect pairings or a curated menu but on good company and lively conversation. Keep it relaxed. Consider making it a potluck, where each guest brings a dish and a bottle they think pairs well. Encourage creativity. Maybe your friend brings a crisp, citrusy white Bordeaux to sip alongside something as unexpected as sour cream and onion potato chips. Amongst my sommelier friends, this is a favorite pairing—the bright acidity of the wine cuts through the creamy saltiness of the chips in a ridiculously delicious way. Or serve a more rich Cabernet Sauvignon next to a slow-cooked pot roast, letting the tannins soften against the dish’s savory depth. The point isn’t to find textbook-perfect pairings but to have fun with it, discovering new favorites and unexpected combinations along the way.
If you’re feeling adventurous, use this opportunity to explore regions and styles you haven’t yet tried. Consider uncorking a Hungarian Kékfrankos, with its vivid red fruit and spice, alongside a charcuterie platter or a bold, peppery Syrah from the Northern Rhône paired with roasted lamb. There’s a world of lesser-known varietals out there—Santorini’s mineral-driven Assyrtiko, an aromatic Gewürztraminer from Alto Adige, or a supple Nerello Mascalese from Sicily—just waiting for the suitable evening to be poured and discussed. Sharing these unique bottles and the stories behind them adds depth and dimension to the gathering, transforming it from a simple get-together into an exploration.
And, of course, no evening would be complete without a nod to the often-overlooked joy of dessert wines. These beautifully crafted wines, often with a fascinating backstory, are too usually forgotten and deserve a place in the spotlight. Imagine finishing the night with a delicate Vin Santo from Tuscany, its honeyed almond and apricot notes balanced by a crisp biscotti or two. Or a decadent ruby Port, its warmth and sweetness accentuated by a plate of bittersweet dark chocolate. You could even try the classic pairing of Sauternes and Roquefort—the luscious sweetness of the wine plays against the pungency and salt of the cheese in an utterly sublime way. There is a reason why it is a classic. Dessert wines are made for these lingering moments, where the conversation stretches on, and the clock seems irrelevant.
But, in the end, Come Over October isn’t just about the wine—it’s about the people you share it with. As Karen MacNeil aptly reminds us, “Wine needs us to defend her.” This initiative is a chance to do just that, not by keeping her confined to formal tastings or special occasions, but by bringing her back into the day-to-day fabric of our lives. Open your favorite bottle, or perhaps the one you’ve been saving for ‘the right moment.’ Turn a random weeknight into an event simply by setting the table, calling your friends and neighbors, and filling the room with the clink of glasses and the murmur of voices. And if circumstances mean you can’t gather in person this time, consider toasting to your loved ones from afar or sharing a cherished memory over a video call. Because at its heart, Come Over October is about finding small ways to savor connection—no matter where you are.
So, this October, let’s raise a glass to the unexpected pairings, the discoveries, and the simple joy of being together however we can. Whether it’s a Burgundy and beef stew, a Beaujolais and pizza, or a heartfelt chat across the miles, the beauty of this initiative is that it’s all about celebrating the here and now—where the laughter is lively, the wines are shared. The best moments are the ones that happen naturally. Because at its core, wine isn’t just about what’s in the bottle—it’s about what happens when we open it.
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