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Five Holiday Wine Pairings to Try This December
FIVE HOLIDAY PAIRINGS
Cranberries and Rosé
Whether sugared or in a sauce, served alone or accompanying a festive protein, cranberries in all their forms are a staple of the holiday spread. Try pairing them with a glass of rosé, whose fresh crunchy red fruit flavors echo with cranberry notes. While rosés are too often thought of as summer libations, these are, in fact, extremely versatile wines. Bonus points for a darker rosé, whose spiciness speaks to the winer months.
Our Pick: Vinalia x ArmAs Karmrahyut Rosé 2021
Latkes and Riesling
The quintessential Hanukkah dish, few things can warm you up on a cold winter night like a hot plate of freshly fried latkes. These traditional potato pancakes are filling, crispy, and in need of something light and bright to pierce through their oily richness. Classic toppings of apple sauce or sour cream can do that trick—and so can Riesling, which can elevate the meal even further with its electrifying acidity.
Our Pick: Vinalia x Cave Spring Riesling 2020
Glazed Ham and Gamay
The Christmas ham can be a surprisingly tricky dish to pair well. Despite the richness of the protein, the sweetness of the glaze can clash with the earthy, savory tones of many tannic, wintery red wines. Instead, opt for a bottle that offers a bit more freshness and sumptuously fruity flavors. Many lighter-bodied reds can fit the bill, like Pinot Noir or Mencía, while Gamay can be particularly delightful.
Our Pick: Vinalia x Malivoire Gamay 2023
Fish and Italian White
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is an Italian American tradition held on Christmas Eve, and recently immortalized in a climactic episode of The Bear. As the name suggests, the meal comprises a large assortment of fish and seafood dishes. White wine is the classic answer for fish—and Italy has several in abundance. Go for a richer one, like Vernaccia, Pecorino, or Ribolla Gialla this time of year.
Our Pick: Vinalia x Fausti Falerio Pecorino 2022
Roast Beef and Big Red
The centerpiece of many Christmas dinners, roast beef should be matched with a big, bold red wine. There’s actually some science to this—the protein in the beef bonds to the tannins in the red, softening the wine and creating an altogether more pleasurable gastronomic experience. This is your chance to go big or go home, and classically tannic grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot will get the job done.
Our Pick: Vinalia x Château de Tiregand Pécharmant 2020
