Ah, holidays. Between unnecessary amounts of food and inevitable questions like, “what’s your plan after graduation?”, taking a breather with a nice glass of wine becomes less of a treat and more of a survival strategy. From non-sommelier to fellow non-sommelier, below are some wine-pairing options for you to “wow” the fam right when you show up to dinner this year.
However, as I’m not an expert on all things wine (yet), I’ve included some (much appreciated) insight from Cork Dork author Bianca Bosker, mentions from TheSkimm’s “Holiday Vino” Guide, and tips from local connoisseurs.
From whites to reds and appetizers to desserts, let this be a guide for a tasteful (and slightly buzzed) holiday season. You can say goodbye to the kids table this year.
1. Thanksgiving Dinner (Red)
Wine guru and New York Times bestseller Bianca Bosker says she is “looking forward to uncorking lots of German Pinot Noir with our meal. Earthy like Burgundy but it won’t put you in debt, German Pinot Noir is one of my dream wines for the fall.” Her chosen bottles are Enderle & Moll’s “Pinot a Trois” and Becker’s “Pinot Noir Estate Dry.” For a lighter red, consider Beaujolais Nouveau, with more acidity guaranteed to cleanse your palate after each dish.
2. Thanksgiving Dinner (White)
If you’re choosing white wine, try something acidic and fruity, like this Sauvignon Blanc or this Riesling. Although everyone loves the salty dishes and hella Fall spices at Thanksgiving dinner, these tastes can become confusing, so let these fruity whites tone it down for you.
3. Thanksgiving Dessert
Bosker offers her intelligent wine expertise again, sharing, “I’ll be pulling out some of Tissot’s Macvin de Pinot Noir to pair with pumpkin pie and our food comas.” While your younger cousin goes for seconds on Grandma’s pie, you’ll be reaching for a second (or third, or fourth…) glass of Pinot Noir.
4. Christmas Dinner (Red)
Christmas dinner — arguably one of the coziest get-togethers of the year — would not be complete without a well-planned wine pairing. Such as the roasted pecans, baking spice, and dried sage that fill up this New Zealand Pinot Noir, a recommendation from TheSkimm’s “Holiday Vino” Guide. *Cue the Nat King Cole Christmas Spotify playlist.*
5. Christmas Dinner (White)
Chardonnay is a classic, so why not continue tradition by adding this subtle, fruity white to your favorite holiday dishes? Consistency is key, therefore chardonnay is bound to please the whole crowd.
6. Christmas Dessert
Port wines are most typically paired with after-dinner dishes, making them an elegant option for your holiday dessert spread. If you’re looking at chocolate, berries, or fruity pies, consider this red port wine and #treatyoself. Or check out a white variation if you’re going for something like creamy cheeses or your aunt’s famous pecan pie.
7. New Year’s Eve Dessert
Most likely, you don’t need a recommendation for your New Year’s alcohol choices (#PopTheBubbly). However, if you‘re feeling more adventurous than traditional champagne, try something that tastes like a classy Sauternes or a luxurious Sciacchetra (note: this sweet dessert wine is likely available only on Italian turf.) If you’re feeling a simple bubbly mix, check out these sparkling options.
In hopes of making you the favorite child when you show up to dinner with top-rated wine, I must also note that this list is anything but definitive in finding the best vino for your interests. The world of wine is incredibly deep and diverse, so read up, consult the sommelier at your favorite restaurant, or simply try different wines until you’ve discovered your most prized holiday pairs. Cheers, and happy holidays!