The 10 Best Wines, Beers, And Cocktails For Your Halloween Candy

The 10 Best Wines, Beers, and Cocktails for Your Halloween Candy

Are you hosting a spectacular costume party with the ghostliest décor in the neighborhood? Or are you relaxing with a scary movie, a big bowl of candy, and a glass of pinot, while you wait for the trick-or-treaters to come? For all of you sweets-loving tipplers out there, the best way to celebrate Halloween is by pairing your favorite drink with a tasty treat.

Charles Smith of Charles Smith Wines, Wine Enthusiast's reigning "Winemaker of the Year," has compiled a list of Halloween candy and alcohol pairings for you to try. Charles Smith Wines is the largest winemaker-owned winery in Washington State, with wines distributed in all 50 states, including K Vintners, Charles Smith Wines, ViNO, Secco Italian Bubbles, SIXTO, Wines of Substance, and one-half of Charles & Charles.

He recently opened Jet City in Seattle, the largest urban winery on the West Coast (32,000 square feet), which is his version of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The size and idea behind this winery is making a big impact. Needless to say, he knows what he's talking about when it comes to the world of drink.

Here are Smith's thoughts on what to drink with your Halloween candy this holiday, including his own festive Velvet Devil Merlot.

Candy Corn

A big, rich chardonnay, something loaded with tropical fruit and citrus to offset the sweetness of the candy.

Butterfinger

A dark, robust beer, such as Guinness. The chalky, rich texture of a Butterfinger needs something deep and smooth to pair it with, and this duet is sure to hit the spot.

Hot Tamales

A sweet and spicy candy needs something with a "kick" to level it out — like mezcal. A great choice to pair with this taste is Del Maguey Chichicapa Mezcal, for the brand is full of flavor. Swirl it into your favorite mixer, pop some Tamales into your mouth, and taste the magic.

Kit Kat

If you love the classic Kit Kat, reach for a cabernet sauvignon. Aromas and flavors of cassis, violets, herbs will stand up nicely to the chocolately crispness of the candy.

M&M’s

A timeless candy deserves to be paired with a classic type of wine. For the perfect combination, try Broncho Malbec. It contains blackberry, blueberry, black leather, suede, and cool campfire, all wrapped in a rich generous palate.

Milky Way

A sweet and creamy chocolate bar should be paired with a rich liquor, like in a Crown Manhattan. Use amaro instead of vermouth for a cocktail and candy pairing that's sure to please.

Red Vines

Pair these with the best-known Charles Smith Wine, the delicate, bright, and minerally Kung Fu Girl Riesling.

Reese’s

Syrah makes the perfect pair with everyone's favorite peanut butter bite. It has complexity and tannins that are inferior to none, along with blackberry, boysenberry, dry-hung meat, white pepper, savory herbs, and crushed granite. Need we say more?

Smarties

Smarties are tart and chalky, yet delicious. Suck on some of these while sipping on a ginger lemon drop. The sweet and tangy element of lemon will pair perfect with the unique texture of a Smartie.

Snickers

Snacking on a Snickers? Pair it with a merlot, such as the Velvet Devil Merlot. This wine is velvety yet complex, and it has oh-so-right flavors like pipe tobacco, Bing cherry, and dried rose petals with a blend of subtle herbs and spice.