Halloween is the perfect time to pour a glass and lean into your dark side. While heroes might sip responsibly with friends, villains always know how to make a scene—especially when it comes to their drink of choice. From gothic reds to mischievous bubbles, here’s the wine we think your favorite villain is swirling in their glass this spooky season.
Frankenstein – Robust Cabernet Sauvignon
Big, bold, and stitched together with structure, Frankenstein would naturally gravitate toward a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark fruit, earthy undertones, and firm tannins mirror the monster’s imposing presence. Plus, the wine’s longevity nods to his own unlikely reanimation.
Wines to try: Turnbull Napa Valley Cabernet 2022 and Josh Cellars Res Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet 2021
Elphaba (The Wicked Witch of the West) – Albariño
Green-skinned and sharp-witted, Elphaba would never settle for anything but a vibrant white with personality. Albariño, with its bright citrus, stone fruit, and zesty minerality, reflects her unconventional brilliance. A little underrated and misunderstood—just like her.
Wine to try: Do Ferreiro Albariño 2023
Darth Vader – Syrah/Shiraz
The dark lord of the galaxy requires a wine as commanding as his presence. A smoky, brooding Syrah (or Shiraz) with black pepper, leather, and dark berry flavors captures his intensity. Full of power and a little intimidating—this wine is best enjoyed with a heavy breathing soundtrack.
Wine to try: Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2022
Voldemort – Old World Burgundy (Pinot Noir)
Refined, ancient, and obsessively tied to legacy, Voldemort would sip on a hauntingly elegant Burgundy. Complex layers, subtle earthiness, and a finish that lingers longer than a curse. It’s a wine that demands reverence—just as he does.
Wines to try: Iron Horse Gold Ridge Pinot Noir 2018 and Kistler Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2023
Bowser – Zinfandel
Fiery and forceful, Bowser’s wine of choice has to be just as bold as he is. Zinfandel, with its jammy red fruit, spice, and high-octane intensity, mirrors his explosive personality. A wine that leaves a mark—just like Bowser himself.
Wines to try: Rombauer Zinfandel 2022 and Joel Gott Zinfandel 2023
Cruella de Vil – Champagne
For someone with her flair for fashion and drama, nothing short of Champagne will do. Crisp, elegant, and bubbling with style, it’s the ultimate villainous accessory. After all, Cruella would never let a celebration pass without stealing the spotlight.
Wines to try: Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne N/V and Louis Roederer Cristal 2015
The Joker – Orange Wine
Chaotic, unpredictable, and just a little offbeat—The Joker is pouring orange wine. Its tangy, slightly funky character reflects his wild energy and love of mischief. Unconventional and unforgettable, it’s as twisted as Gotham’s trickster himself.
Wine to try: Tinto Amorio Monje Orange Wine
Catwoman – Rosé of Provence
Seductive yet sophisticated, Catwoman would naturally lean toward a pale, elegant rosé. With its alluring aromas of strawberry and rose petals, it’s a wine that balances charm with danger. One sip, and you’re hooked.
Wine to try: Whispering Angel Provence Rose 2022
This Halloween, whether you’re a hero or a villain, raise a glass to the wines that bring out your most mischievous side. After all, every good story needs a little darkness.