We are frequently asked which wine should one drink with which foods. Our very basic rule is to think about the wines’ origins; which country and region does the wine come from and what are the food stuffs that are traditionally eaten in those areas. Usually these are the best matches. Of course, experimenting with wines you have not tried before, or matches that you would never have thought of, is fun , even if sometimes not quite what you thought. You may be surprised – pleasantly!
But for Christmas you may want to be a little more sure of what you are serving. Also, if you are hosting a party or a big family lunch, you may have several eclectic tastes to cater for.
Here is our guide – but frankly, drink what you like best; it is a time to treat yourself!
A Bucks Fizz at breakfast – whilst opening the Santa sacks. Personally, I don’t bother with the orange juice! Champagne is great, but there are many lower priced alternatives these days such as my personal favourite, the much underrated Cava. English Sparkling is often fresher than some Champagens so great as an aperitif. Some of the “new world” countries produce great sparkling wines as do the “other” regions of France – with Cremant being very popular and great value for money, and Kaape Classique from South Africa. All these are great to drink during the morning, with crisps, peanuts and snacks, and can accompany any fishy or a paté style starter.
If you are being traditional and having Turkey, a light red such as Pinot Noir or a Pinotage from South Africa all go really well. Alternatively a good, fuller bodied Chardonnay or Viognier is hard to beat as they complement all the trimmings which make the meal. With Beef, a good Bordeaux, or a rich merlot from Chile or Argentina are ideal. But my personal favourite at the moment are the Duoro reds from Portugal.
Pork, apple sauce and crackling needs something to cut through that delicious fatty meat…a good Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or a light red Austrian, or Rioja. Something different – a Riesling. But again, I may go for the Portuguese Duoro red.
Vegetarian options such as nut roast, mushrooms, aubergines all go really well with Chardonnay or a Viognier, or a light red such as Pinot Noir or a young Rioja
If you are not too full for Christmas pudding and cheese – why not try some of the dessert wines. These are a delight and often forgotten!
The main thing is –drink what you like and enjoy!
Happy Christmas from all of us at Great Wine Online
