The Perfect Pairing: Wine Recommendations for Your Holiday Feast

The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious food. But what makes a truly memorable meal? The answer lies in the perfect pairing. Wine, with its complex flavors and aromas, can elevate your holiday feast to new heights. 

Turkey & Chicken 

For the classic Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey or chicken, consider these wine pairings: 

  • Chardonnay: A versatile white wine with a buttery texture and fruity aromas, Chardonnay can complement the richness of turkey and chicken. 
  • Pinot Noir: This elegant red wine offers a balance of fruit and acidity, making it a great match for poultry. 
  • Sangiovese: A dry, fruity red wine that pairs well with the savory flavors of turkey and chicken. 

Roast Beef & Ham 

Hearty red wines are the ideal companions for roast beef and ham: 

  • Bordeaux: Known for its complexity and structure, Bordeaux wines can stand up to the rich flavors of roast beef. 
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied red wine is a classic choice for pairing with roast beef, offering bold flavors of black currant and cedar. 
  • Zinfandel: With its fruity sweetness and peppery spice, zinfandel is a great match for a sweet and salty ham. 

Seafood 

For seafood dishes, opt for crisp, refreshing white wines: 

  • Sancerre: A dry white wine from the Loire Valley in France, known for its citrusy and mineral flavors. 
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Another excellent choice for seafood, sauvignon blanc offers a bright acidity and herbaceous aromas. 
  • Vinho Verde: A Portuguese white wine with a refreshing acidity and citrusy notes. 

Veggies 

When vegetables take center stage, light and bright wines are the perfect pairing: 

  • Beaujolais: A light-bodied red wine with fruity aromas and a touch of sweetness. 
  • Rosé: A refreshing pink wine with a variety of flavors, from fruity to earthy. 
  • Sauvignon Blanc: A versatile white wine that can pair well with a variety of vegetables. 

There are so many great varietals and an endless array of wines that will pair perfectly with your holiday meal, and this is simply a starting point. The best way to find the perfect wine pairing for your holiday meal is to experiment and see what you enjoy. And don't forget to visit The Good Pour to discover our wide selection of wines and get expert recommendations from our knowledgeable staff.   

Happy Holidays and Happy Pairing!