That may be just the way it is... or by design.

     And we wouldn't put it past you to sneak a couple of mini-candy bars from your own kids' baskets.

     Which brings up the obvious question: Are they any wines that pair nicely with Halloween candy?

     Okay, so maybe it wasn't THAT obvious a question. But the answer is --surprise! -- yes.

     Try these pairings on for size... after you've put the little ones to bed, of course. (We don't want them to see you "sorting" through their newly acquired candy stash!)

     * SNICKERS BAR -- Try a Tawny Port, which typically has some nut and caramel impressions of its own.

     * THREE MUSKETEERS BAR -- A dessert wine, made from white grape varieties. We'd suggest Chateau d'Yquem, but you wouldn't be able to afford candy next Halloween.

     * CANDY CORN -- A sweet or semi-sweet sparkling wine. If you find a bottle marked "Extra Dry," that would be perfect because those two words do not accurately describe what's inside the bottle.