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No wine list can fit the different varieties of wine that exist. That’s why changing things up every once in a while is a good idea. This will allow you to introduce different wines to your customers. When you offer variety, they will keep coming back to your restaurant.
There are many delicious food and wine pairing options you can serve to your customers. And since the festive season is upon us, it’s time to bring out the holiday wines and celebrate! These wines are what you need to add to your seasonal beverage menu. But don’t foget signature holiday cocktails, holiday mocktails, and hot holiday drinks either!
If you are curious to know which types of wine we suggest you offer this holiday season, this article is for you. We listed various options that deserve your attention.Don’t forget to serve them with the right meals. Let’s get started!
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Perfect Holiday Wines to Pair with Your Delicious Meals
We already have discussed how to earn a Michelin Star. If you have read the article, you know that drinks are not a key factor when a restaurant is given a Michelin Star. The quality and uniqueness of the food that is being served is what truly matters. You can also read about the top 25 Michelin Star restaurants in the US.
However, something that no one says is that having a great selection of beverages is what can make your restaurant truly successful. A delicious dish paired with the right drink will be ten times better. It will improve the customer experience and satisfaction.
This is especially true when we are talking about wine. The flavor profile matters and when serving festive dishes, it’s important to select the best possible holiday wines to go with them. Here are our suggestions.
Key Takeaway: There are many great holiday wines to serve at your restaurant. They go with a range of festive dishes that can be served both at home and at a restaurant. Choosing the right type of wine for a festive meal will make a world of a difference and will help the guests enjoy their time a lot more.
1. Red Bordeaux
Bordeaux wines are a classic choice. They could be Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends. These are great holiday wines because of their robust flavor. They complement nicely hearty festive dishes.
Serve these holiday wines with any of these dishes and people will be happy:
- Prime rib roast
- Lamb chops
- Beef wellington
- Duck Confit
- Grilled steak
- Short ribs
- Coq au Vin
- Mushroom risotto
- Dishes with truffle
- Platters with aged cheeses
2. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a wine that is known for its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of holiday foods, which include ham and mushroom-based dishes. This wine tends to be lighter and more elegant than Bordeaux wines. Here are the festive meals you can serve with a nice bottle of Pinot Noir:
- Roasted turkey
- Duck breast
- Pork tenderloin
- Lamb chops
- Roasted chicken
- Beef Bourguignon
- Charcuterie and cheese platters
- Cranberry-glazed meat or poultry
3. Zinfandel
This type of wine, especially if it comes from California, is bold and fruity. It pairs well with rich and flavorful dishes. These can be:
- Barbecue ribs
- Spicy sausages
- Grilled steak with peppercorn sauce
- Beef chili
- Lamb curry
- Stuffed bell peppers
- Cajun Jambalaya
4. Chardonnay
A full-bodied white wine, like the Chardonnay, complements perfectly creamy dishes. Although many people consider only the reds to be holiday wines, Chardonnay is a great match for a lot of the dishes people enjoy in the festive season. These could be:
- Roasted turkey with creamy gravy
- Lobster or crab with butter sauce
- Creamy chicken Alfredo
- Smoked salmon
- Butternut squash risotto
- Roasted chicken with herbs
- Creamy mushroom risotto
- Brie or Camembert cheese platter
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5. Riesling
Riesling is a versatile white wine and can range from dry to sweet. Many people love it because it can pair with a wide variety of foods, which include:
- Honey-glazed ham
- Turkey with a fruit-based stuffing
- Sweet and sour chicken
- Smoked salmon
- Pork tenderloin with fruit chutney
- Citrus-glazed shrimp
- Roasted root vegetables
- Sausage and apple stuffed acorn squash
- Cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs
6. Sparkling Wine
Special occasions call for a nice glass of sparkling wine! Whether you are going to choose prosecco wine or want to explore champagne pairings, you will still make a great choice. These wines will elevate anyone’s experience at your restaurant and while enjoying a festive meal. Here is what you can pair with sparkling wines:
- Mushroom risotto
- Brie or Camembert cheese platter
- Roast turkey with herb stuffing
- Herb-crusted rack of lamb
- Vegetarian stuffed bell peppers
- Beef tenderloin with peppercorn sauce
- Fruit tart desserts
7. Cabernet Sauvignon
This is another robust read wine that pairs best with hearty dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon has bold flavors and can stand up to strong flavors in your meal. Here is what meals you can pair it with:
- Prime rib roast
- Filet mignon
- Beef wellington
- Lamb chops
- Grilled ribeye steak
- Mushroom risotto
- Beef stroganoff
- Duck breast with cherry sauce
- Grilled vension
- Blueberry-glazed pork tenderloin
8. Syrah
Syrah is a bold red wine that can complement spicy and smoky dishes. It’s one of the most preferred holiday wines because it can be paired with:
- Barbecue ribs
- Grilled lamb chops
- Beef brisket
- Vension stew
- Spicy sausage and peppers
- Beef short ribs
- Grilled Portobello mushrooms with blue cheese
9. Gewürztraminer
This white wine can add a touch of sweetness to your holiday meal. It pairs well with spicier dishes and can be a good choice when you serve an Asian-inspired cuisine. Here are the meals it pairs perfectly with:
- Roasted turkey with apricot glaze
- Honey-glazed ham
- Spicy Thai or Indian curry
- Foie Gras
- Cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs
- Baked brie with cranberry chutney
- Spiced apple-cranberry chutney
10. Port Wine
For the delicious holiday desserts, consider offering port wine. This type of wine pairs wonderfully with chocolatte desserts, nuts, and strong cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Holiday Wines
Wondering what holiday wine to choose or have some other questions? Read the ones we have listed below. You may find some interesting information!
Should I Serve Red or White Wine With Holiday Meals?
Both red and white wines can complement holiday meals. For lighter dishes like turkey or seafood, choose white wines. For example, Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For heartier dishes like roast meats, red wines can be excellent choices. Choose from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, or Syrah. It all depends on the type of cuisine you are serving and how different flavors mix together.
Are There Specific Dessert Wines for Holiday Sweets?
Wines like Port, Sauternes, or late-harvest Riesling pair nicely with holiday desserts. They offer both sweetness and complexity and complement the flavors of the desserts without overpowering them. You can also experiment with the specific desserts you want to serve and try them with different wines. When the flavors go well together, you will enjoy both the dessert and wine more.
Is It Important to Have Holiday Wines?
To make a good impression on customers and guests, it’s important to pair holiday dishes with quality holiday wines. The complementing flavors of food and wine will elevate the experience of the people you are serving. If you are a business owner, this will directly reflect your profits and success.
Are There Budget-Friendly Holiday Wine Options?
Yes, many excellent holiday wines are available at various price points. Look for high-quality options from lesser-known regions like Spanish Cava or South American reds.
What Makes a Wine a “Holiday Wine”?
Holiday wines are often chosen for their celebratory nature, food-friendliness, and ability to pair with traditional holiday dishes. Bubbly wines, rich reds, and sweet dessert wines are often considered ideal for the season.
Are There Holiday Wines That Are Vegan or Organic?
Yes, many wineries offer vegan or organic options. Check for labeling or research specific brands that cater to these preferences when you are stocking holiday wines in your beverage inventory.