Come Over October: A Night of Wine, Food, and Friendship

If you’ve been following The Pouring Passport, you know that for me, wine has always been about connection — not just what’s in the glass, but who’s around it. So when I learned about the Come Over October campaign . An initiative encouraging people to open their doors, share a meal, and make time for one another, it immediately resonated.

Inspired by that spirit, our Winos+ crew decided to host our own gathering in support. On Saturday night, we came together at Tracy and Ryan’s home with our +1s for what turned out to be one of our favorite nights yet. Full of laughter, shared plates, and more than a few generous pours.

A Toast to Good Friends and Great Pairings

We styled our evening similarly to the monthly tastings we love attending at Stem Wine Bar in Marietta, with thoughtful wine pairings and small plates designed to complement each other. Everyone brought a wine to share and paired it with a dish that reflected their own tastes and creativity. There was no set theme or structure, just good food, good company, and a shared appreciation for the joy of pairing.

Here’s how our lineup came together:

• Me: Riesling paired with a Fall Harvest Orzo Salad
• Claudia: Albariño with Chicken, Spinach & Feta Empanadas + Avocado Crema
• Debbie: Pinot Grigio and Sushi
• Elisabeth: Zinfandel with BBQ Chicken Pizza
• Tracy: Pinot Noir with Burnt Ends in Cranberry Glaze + Baby Potatoes
• Aerial: Malbec with Chicken & Steak Fajitas
• Bonnie: Cabernet Sauvignon with a Chocolate Ganache Cake

Each pairing told a little story. Flavors that surprised, delighted, and inspired conversation around the table. By the end of the night, our bellies were full, our hearts even fuller, and our glasses definitely not empty.

Why We Love the Spirit of Come Over October

What we loved most about this idea is its simplicity. You don’t need a reason to gather. You just need to make one. Come Over October is really about that reminder: that life’s best moments often happen at the table.

Hosting doesn’t have to be fancy or stressful. It can be as easy as opening a bottle, putting together a small plate, and saying, “come over.” And if you can add a little laughter, music, and maybe a second bottle, all the better.

Cheers to Connection

This gathering reminded me that we all crave connection, especially in a world that often feels too busy. Wine just happens to be one of the best excuses to create it.

So here’s to the Winos+, to Come Over October, and to all the moments that happen when we make time for each other.

If you haven’t heard of the campaign, check it out at comeoveroctober.com and consider hosting your own night of food, friends, and full glasses.