Spooky Wines for Halloween
Uncover the spookiest labels and haunting backstories behind these wines – perfect for Halloween parties, gothic table spreads, or simply sipping by candlelight.
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or just fancy a bottle that’s a little on-brand, we’ve picked wines with the eeriest labels and creepiest stories. From catacombs to haunted mannequins, these bottles look the part – and taste sensational too.
Orin Swift Wines
Orin Swift might sound like a mysterious figure, but it’s actually a combination of founder Dave Phinney’s parents’ names: Orin (his father’s middle name) and Swift (his mother’s maiden name). Since 1998, Phinney has been creating wines that are as daring and dramatic as their labels - often inspired by art, music and even the macabre.
Few labels are as haunting as Palermo. The image of a mummified priest in a red cape and biretta, photographed in Palermo’s 16th-century catacombs, makes it one of the most striking bottles on any Halloween table.
Inside the bottle? A Cabernet blend with Merlot and Malbec, crafted from some of Napa’s most prestigious vineyards. Expect bold cassis, black cherry, and spice, wrapped in velvety tannins. Phinney calls it his “most approachable Cabernet” – and a true representation of Napa.
If mannequins give you the creeps, this one’s for you. The sinister photo of amputated shop dummies was captured by LA photographer Greg Gorman after 540 attempts to get the perfect shot. The result? A chillingly unforgettable label.
The wine itself is no dummy. This Chardonnay-led blend (with Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat in the mix) delivers waves of ripe stone fruit, tropical notes and a lush, creamy finish. Bold, expressive and unforgettable – just like its label.
As is often the way with the creative process, Gorman took scores of photos but neither he nor Phinney were happy with the result until the mannequins were tossed to one side after the shoot and everything fell into place on shot 540.
Chronic Cellars
Founded in Paso Robles in 2004 by brothers Josh and Jake Beckett, Chronic Cellars takes winemaking seriously – but never itself. With tongue-in-cheek names, skull-covered labels and blends that pack serious punch, these wines bring just the right amount of spooky fun to Halloween.
This Zinfandel-dominated blend is as dark and decadent as its name suggests. Expect layers of jammy blackberry, cherry cola, mocha, and a hint of lavender. Silky tannins and balanced acidity make it ridiculously easy to drink – perfect for sharing around the cauldron.
91pts and Editor’s Choice from Wine Enthusiast confirm it’s more treat than trick. Pair with barbecue pulled pork or roast veg for a bewitching match.
Meet Sir Real: the most noble Cabernet in Paso Robles. Think brooding black fruit, ripe plum, cassis, and a streak of cedar and tobacco. It’s plush, generous and finishes with heroic length.
A bold red fit for any Halloween feast – try it with beef ribs or hearty stews.
The Traitor
Inspired by the Chilean legend of Añañuca – a young woman who died of heartbreak after being betrayed by a miner – The Traitor honours her spirit, which lives on in the scarlet flowers of the Atacama Desert. The wines are every bit as memorable as their haunting tale.
A juicy, satisfying red blend bursting with plum, blackberry, and cherry. Smooth, rich and utterly moreish – ideal with grilled meats, casseroles, or roasted veg. A true crowd-pleaser.
Crisp and refreshing, this blend brims with lime, grapefruit, peach, and melon. Zippy and vibrant, it’s a ghostly good match for seafood, salads, or Mediterranean dishes.