At this time of year, I look for wines that seamlessly bridge the gap between the patio pounders of summer and the weighty wines of winter. Union Sacré’s Cabernet Franc plays that role perfectly. Made from grapes grown in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, it’s aged briefly in concrete tanks and neutral oak barrels, giving it the fresh appeal of a Beaujolais Nouveau but with more depth of flavor. This is a wine that nimbly complements the vicissitudes of our autumnal weather. On warmer fall days, I like to chill it down a bit in the fridge. When the weather turns cool, I enjoy it at cellar temperature. Its fruit-forward, expressive flavors bring out the best in those late-season grilling sessions featuring barbecued chicken or ribs. -David Mahoney #CHILLABLERED