As the Christmas season approaches us, the excitement of family gatherings and festive feasts begin to build. Whether you're planning a traditional Christmas lunch or a modern dinner with a twist, matching the right wine with each course can elevate the experience and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
At Vineonline, we've curated the perfect pairings to complement your Christmas menu, from classic dishes like roast turkey to modern mains such as glazed ham or plant-based alternatives, we have you covered no matter what's on the menu.
For those who love to indulge in a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, the following wine pairings will make every bite even more delicious.
A true Christmas staple, roast turkey is rich, tender and complemented beautifully by a glass of Chardonnay. A good-quality Chardonnay offers a balance of acidity and creamy texture, which cuts through the richness of the turkey. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir provides the perfect amount of red fruit flavours without overwhelming the dish.
A juicy glazed ham, often spiced with cloves or glazed with honey and mustard, demands a wine with a touch of sweetness to complement the salty, savoury flavours. A Riesling works wonderfully, balancing the saltiness of the ham with its fruity and acidic notes. If you're more inclined towards red wine, try a soft Merlot, which pairs well with the sweet and savoury combination.
For lamb lovers, a bold red wine is a must. A full-bodied Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon cuts through the richness of the lamb, while the spicy notes and blackcurrant flavours harmonize with the fresh, minty sauce.
No Christmas feast is complete without a rich, spiced Christmas pudding. The sweetness and depth of a Tawny Port pairs beautifully with this dessert, adding layers of caramel and dried fruit flavours. Alternatively, a fresh and lightly sparkling Moscato will cleanse the palate after a rich meal.
For those looking to take a more contemporary approach to Christmas dining, here are some exciting pairings to go with modern menus, including seafood, plant-based dishes and exotic flavours.
Seafood is a fresh and light choice for a Christmas lunch, especially in New Zealand where summer dining is at its very best. Pair prawns, oysters and lobster with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, with its zesty citrus notes and vibrant acidity. For a touch of elegance, serve your seafood with a glass of Champagne - the bubbles and minerality enhance the briny flavours of shellfish.
For a New Zealand summer BBQ twist, a grilled salmon or snapper fillet is a popular choice. A dry Rosé will complement the smoky, charred notes of the fish, while a zesty Pinot Grigio adds a refreshing contrast with its crisp acidity and bright fruit flavours.
Plant-based fishes are becoming more popular on Christmas tables. A vegan nut roast, packed with hearty flavours, pairs well with a medium-bodied red like Grenache which offers subtle spiciness and red fruit notes. For a white wine option, a versatile Chenin Blanc with its high acidity and tropical fruits flavours is an excellent choice to balance the umami flavours in a mushroom gravy.
A dish with bold flavours like spiced cauliflower calls for a wine that can stand up to those spices. A Gewurztraminer, with its aromatic and floral profile, is a beautiful pairing, offering a hint of sweetness to contrast the spice. If you're in the mood for red wine, try a peppery Syrah to mirror the exotic spices and complement the smoky, roasted flavours.
No matter whether your Christmas menu is traditional or modern, the dessert and cheese course deserves just as much attention when it comes to wine pairings.
A light and airy Pavlova topped with fresh berries is the ultimate summer Christmas dessert. Pair it with a glass of Prosecco - its refreshing bubbles and hint of sweetness enhances the dessert without overpowering it. For a fruitier option, a Sparkling Rose complements the berries while keeping things light.
For a varied cheese platter, a Pinot Gris is a versatile white wine option that pairs well with creamy cheeses like brie. If you prefer red, go for a bold Shiraz, which pairs beautifully with the sharpness of aged cheddar and the saltiness of blue cheese.
Whether you're enjoying a classic roast or a modern seafood BBQ, the perfect wine pairing can enhance your Christmas feast and bring out the best in every dish.
At Vineonline, we offer a wide selection of wines to match any menu, ensuring your holiday celebrations are as delicious as they are festive. Explore our range today and let us help you find the perfect bottle of wine for your Christmas table.