Each box is curated by an Eater-beloved wine pro, inspired by the flavors, regions, and trends sparking joy and conversation right now.

September Theme: Last Light of Summer

Hello, September.

The days are still warm, but the light has changed. Longer shadows, cooler mornings, and that first hint that the season is turning. It’s the kind of in-between stretch that asks for one foot in each world: a glass that still tastes like August, and one that’s ready for what’s next.

This month’s lineup leans into that transition. Bright, textured whites — including an aromatic Albariño and a skin-contact Verdelho — carry the last of summer’s ease, while juicy, food-ready reds and an expressive orange wine begin easing the table toward fall.

Every bottle was chosen for that middle ground: wines that feel right with one more grilled dinner outside, but are just as ready for the first cozy meal of the season. Crisp whites with plenty of character, textured skin-contact wines, vibrant reds, and easygoing bottles made to keep the evening going.

Last Light of Summer is about holding onto the season without resisting what comes next. One more dinner on the porch. One more long evening around the table. A bottle opened while there’s still a little light left in the sky.

Pour what feels right.

Let the season turn slow. 

Tasting Notes and Pairings

Sanctum Lisica Pinot Noir 2023

Lipoglav, Štajerska, Slovenia | Red | Pinot Noir

Bright cranberry and red cherry lead into an earthy, savory core with a touch of forest floor and dried herb. Fine-grained tannins and lively acidity keep this cool-climate Pinot light on its feet, finishing clean and food-ready.

Ideal with: Grilled sausages, roast chicken, mushroom toast, charcuterie, smash burgers, herb-roasted pork

Adega Pedralonga Albariño Serea 2023

Rías Baixas, Spain | White | Albariño

Hand-harvested from vines near the Galician coast, this Albariño carries citrus zest, green apple, and a saline, mineral edge. Stainless-steel aged for freshness, with a crisp, thirst-quenching finish.

Ideal with: Fresh oysters, grilled shrimp, seafood paella, ceviche, goat cheese, summer salads 

Poppelvej Wines Rookie Grenache 2022

McLaren Vale, South Australia | Red | Grenache

Whole-bunch fermented for a perfumed, high-toned style, crushed herbs and amaro-like bitterness wrap around bright cherry fruit. Light tannins and a juicy, refreshing finish make this an easy wine to pour cool.

Ideal with: Grilled merguez, roast chicken, tomato-based pasta, charcuterie, picnic sandwiches, smash burgers

Deep Rooted Touch Me Skin Contact Verdelho 2024

Bot River, Walker Bay, South Africa | White | Verdelho

Whole-cluster fermented with skin contact for real texture, a waxy, phenolic grip alongside notes of quince, beeswax, and citrus pith. Tangy acidity and a long, lingering finish.

Ideal with: Roasted cauliflower, grilled prawns, Manchego, citrus-marinated chicken, spicy shrimp tacos, mezze platters

Tenuta Est Stara Kupaža 2024

Timok Valley, Serbia | Red | Field Blend (Prokupac, Blaufränkisch, Vranac, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc & more)

An old-blend field wine of eleven red and white grapes fermented together, showing red fruit, wild berry, and a savory herbal edge. Light-bodied and lifted, with a soft, easy-drinking finish.

Ideal with: Roasted root vegetables, grilled sausages, stews, aged cheeses, charcuterie, rustic pâté

Mas d'Intras Cuvée de la Montagnère 2024

Ardèche, France | White | Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, Viognier, Clairette, Floréal

A layered five-grape blend from a single Ardèche hillside, offering pear, floral lift, and a touch of thyme and bruised apple. Rich but not heavy, with a bright, food-friendly finish.

Ideal with: Roasted chicken, creamy pasta, grilled shrimp, wild mushroom risotto, soft cheeses, root vegetables

Clos Siguier 2022

Cahors, France | Red | Malbec, Tannat

Deep purple with notes of plum, blackberry, and cool black tea, backed by a stony minerality. Medium-bodied with silky tannins and moderate acidity, built for the table.

Ideal with: Grilled steak, lamb, roasted vegetables, aged cheeses, stews, charcuterie

Rabasco Bianco Cancelli 2025

Abruzzo, Italy | White | Trebbiano d'Abruzzo

From 40-year-old vines on the Cancelli plot near the Adriatic, this Trebbiano shows ripe orchard fruit, white flowers, and Mediterranean herbs. Brief skin contact adds texture to a fresh, savory finish.

Ideal with: Grilled fish, roasted chicken, herb-marinated vegetables, light pasta, seafood, salads