There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Bonfire Night in the UK: the chill in the air, the smoky scent of fireworks, the sound of laughter carrying through the crisp November night. As the sky glows with bursts of colour and everyone gathers around the fire, the moment feels like pure magicAnd what could make it better? A glass of something truly warming in your hand. Whether it’s a deep, velvety red wine, a festive glass of bubbles, or a steaming mug of mulled wine, the right drink turns Bonfire Night into an unforgettable celebration.

At The Fine Wine Company, we believe every great evening deserves the perfect pour. So, as you wrap up in scarves and gloves, here’s our guide to the best wines to sip by the fire, from rich reds to sparkling showstoppers, all handpicked to match the season.

The Perfect Bonfire Night Pairing: Warmth in a Glass

As the temperature dips, your taste naturally leans toward comfort, and that’s where warming red wines come in. A glass of Shiraz, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon offers everything you crave on a chilly November night: body, spice, and a deep, satisfying finish.

Imagine standing near the bonfire, your hands wrapped around a glass that radiates warmth like glowing embers. Each sip feels like a hug in a glass, rich, smooth, and layered with flavours of blackberry, plum, and spice.

Shiraz delivers smoky, peppery notes that mirror the crackle of the fire, while Malbec offers ripe fruitiness and velvety tannins, perfect for pairing with sausages or barbecued treats. Cabernet Sauvignon, with its structure and depth, brings sophistication to even the simplest of bonfire snacks.

And if you prefer something a little softer, Merlot is a wonderful middle ground, plush, round, and comforting without being too heavy. It’s an ideal choice when you want easy-drinking warmth that complements rather than overpowers your evening.

Mulled Wine Magic: A Tradition That Never Fades

It wouldn’t be Bonfire Night without the sweet scent of mulled wine drifting through the air. This centuries-old tradition remains a British favourite for good reason; it turns even the coldest evening into something irresistibly cozy.

To make the perfect batch, start with a quality red wine. You don’t need the priciest bottle on the shelf, but choosing a wine with bold fruit flavours makes all the difference. Look for varieties like Grenache, Merlot, or Tempranillo; they have enough body to handle the spices while still tasting smooth.

Combine it with orange peel, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a drizzle of honey or sugar. Gently warm it (never boil!) and let the aromas fill the air.

For a modern twist, you could add cranberries or a splash of apple cider for extra depth. The result? A drink that feels like liquid comfort, warm, aromatic, and perfectly suited for sipping by the bonfire.

At The Fine Wine Company, our selection of rich, full-bodied reds makes for exceptional mulled wine bases. Each bottle carries enough depth and fruit to ensure every mug you serve is bursting with flavour.

Sparkle Under the Fireworks: Whites & Bubbles

Of course, not everyone reaches for red when it’s time to celebrate. For those who prefer something light and lively, white and sparkling wines bring their own charm to the night.

Picture this: the fireworks erupt in colour above you, and in your hand, a glass of Prosecco or Champagne sparkles in the glow of the flames. The bubbles rise like tiny fireworks in your glass, crisp, refreshing, and full of joy.

Sparkling rosé is another fantastic choice, balancing fruitiness and effervescence with a festive pink hue that feels perfectly suited for Bonfire Night gatherings.

If you’re leaning towards still wines, a Chardonnay offers comforting creaminess and warmth, while Sauvignon Blanc delivers a zesty freshness that cuts through rich bonfire foods.

The key is temperature; don’t over-chill your whites in winter. Serving them slightly cool (around 10–12°C) keeps their character intact while still refreshing the palate.

Cozy Food Pairings for the Night

What’s Bonfire Night without great food? The best part of the evening often revolves around comforting, casual bites, and pairing them with the right wine makes every flavour shine.

Here are a few delicious autumn wine pairings for your fireside feast:

  • Grilled sausages or burgers, Pair with a smoky Shiraz or juicy Malbec. The charred edges and savoury spices come alive with these bold reds.

  • Baked potatoes with melted butter and cheese, A buttery Chardonnay adds richness and depth, balancing the earthy flavours beautifully.

  • Cheese boards with cheddar, brie, and grapes. Mix it up with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco to cleanse your palate between bites.

  • Toasted marshmallows or s’mores, Sweet treats deserve a playful pairing. Try a rosé or a late-harvest dessert wine for a whimsical finale.

Whether you’re hosting friends in the garden or simply watching fireworks from the window, the right pairings turn your Bonfire Night into a gourmet experience.

The Fine Wine Company’s Bonfire Night Picks

Bonfire Night is the perfect excuse to open something special, and The Fine Wine Company has just the thing. Our curated collections of red, white, and sparkling wines are chosen with craftsmanship, balance, and British seasons in mind.

Here are some inspired picks for your celebration:

  • Full-bodied Reds: Think deep, velvety bottles that radiate warmth,  perfect for outdoor gatherings and hearty comfort food.

  • Sparkling Wines & Champagnes: For those moments that call for celebration under the fireworks. Bright, crisp, and effortlessly elegant.

  • Elegant Whites: Soft yet lively wines that bring freshness to rich dishes and balance to cool evenings.

Each wine in our collection tells a story of vineyards, seasons, and moments worth sharing. So whether you prefer a bold red or a delicate white, you’ll find a bottle that fits your Bonfire Night mood perfectly.

A Toast to Cozy Evenings

Bonfire Night isn’t just about the fireworks; it’s about warmth, laughter, and togetherness. It’s that feeling of huddling close, sharing stories, and raising a glass to the simple joys of autumn.

So this year, as you light the sparklers and watch the sky ignite, choose a wine that feels just right, something that glows in your glass and warms you from the inside out.

From rich warming red wines to celebratory sparkling bubbles, The Fine Wine Company has everything you need to make this Bonfire Night unforgettable.

Here’s to cozy evenings, crackling fires, and a season filled with good company and even better wine.

FAQs

Q1. What wine goes best with bonfire food?
Grilled or smoky foods pair best with bold reds like Shiraz, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon; they complement savoury, fire-roasted flavours beautifully.

Q2. Can you use any red wine for mulled wine?
It’s best to choose a medium to full-bodied red with fruit-forward notes, like Merlot or Grenache. Avoid wines that are too light or overly oaked.

Q3. What’s a good non-alcoholic wine for Bonfire Night?
Try a low-ABV or alcohol-free wine that still offers richness and warmth. The Fine Wine Company’s collection includes excellent options for mindful drinkers who don’t want to miss out on the flavour or ritual.