The holiday season is a time for family, gifts, and delicious flavors. What’s better than a great glass of wine to make your Christmas special? This guide will show you festive wines perfect for your holiday parties1.
As Christmas nears, wine experts are sharing their top picks. James Suckling will enjoy the Martinez Vintage Port 1967 at his Christmas lunch1. Jo Cooke has chosen the Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino Campo del Drago 2018 for her holiday1. These choices highlight the many wines that can make your holiday merry and bright.
Key Takeaways
- Discover expert-recommended wines for your Christmas gatherings
- Explore a range of styles, from sparkling prosecco to bold Ripasso
- Learn about the history and flavors of holiday-worthy wines
- Pair your festive meals with the perfect wine selections
- Consider wine-themed gifts for the wine enthusiasts in your life
Festive Wines for a Merry Season
The holiday season is a time to celebrate with family and friends. The right christmas wine can make your gatherings merry. From bubbly sparkling wine to sweet sweet wine, there’s a perfect festive wine for Christmas and New Year’s. These wines will enhance your holiday meals and add elegance to any celebration.
Elevate Your Holiday Gatherings
Begin with Armani Prosecco, a festive bubbly at just $19 per bottle2. For a budget-friendly choice, try the bold Bota Box Nighthawk Malbec at $11. It’s like four bottles in a 3-liter box2.
For a splurge, the Jean Foillard, Morgon Les Charmes ‘Eponym’ 2021 at $55 is festive and fresh. The Veuve Clicquot Brut NV Champagne at $52 is a classic French Champagne, perfect as a hostess gift2.
Looking for a non-alcoholic option? The Leitz – NV Zero Point Five Non-Alcoholic Pinot Noir at $20 is a 0.5% ABV choice for enjoying the holiday spirit without the buzz2.
For holiday meals, the Meiomi Pinot Noir is a popular choice with over 900 four-star ratings2. The Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay at $13 has notes of peach, ginger, and vanilla. The Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel rosé at $20 is light and floral, perfect for the season2.
For dessert, the Red Decadence Chocolate Wine at $14 has flavors of black cherry, blueberry, plum, and dark chocolate2. The Windsor Vineyards Merlot at $16 can be customized with holiday wishes, making it a great gift2.
With these holiday wine recommendations, you can make your celebrations unforgettable. Enjoy these wines with your loved ones this season.
Prosecco: A Bubbly Delight
As the holidays get closer, prosecco becomes a great choice to make your celebrations better. This Italian sparkling wine is loved for its flexibility and festive vibe. It pairs well with many Christmas dishes3.
Prosecco comes from the Veneto region in northeastern Italy. It’s mainly made from Glera grapes. The wine gets its bubbles through a special method in stainless steel tanks4. Its taste of apple, pear, and citrus makes it refreshing. It’s perfect with holiday snacks like bruschetta, seafood, and cheese platters34.
Brands like “Bella Principessa Prosecco” and “Signorina Prosecco” stand out for their quality. They offer a range of flavors, from fruity and floral to richer notes in Prosecco Superiore3. You can also make holiday cocktails with prosecco, like adding cranberry juice or orange peel3.
Prosecco is a classy and bubbly choice for your Christmas parties3. Its crisp, fruity taste makes any holiday gathering more festive3.
Prosecco Cocktail Recipes
Make your holiday even better with these prosecco cocktail recipes:
- Sparkling Cranberry Prosecco: 5 ounces of cold Prosecco, 2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier, and 2 tablespoons of cold sweetened cranberry juice or juice blend5.
- Fresh Cranberry Prosecco Mimosas: 4 ounces of freshly squeezed orange juice, 4 ounces of cranberry juice, and 1 bottle of Prosecco wine5.
- Jingle and Mingle Prosecco Cranberry Christmas Cocktail: 1 oz of Silver Tequila, ¾ oz of rosemary simple syrup, and 2 oz of cranberry juice5.
- Cranberry Rosemary Prosecco Cocktail: 3 ounces of cranberry juice, 2 ounces of orange juice, 2 ounces of Grand Marnier, and 8 ounces of Prosecco5.
Try these recipes and let prosecco add to your holiday joy with these tasty cocktails534.
Ripasso: Bold and Flavorful
If you’re looking for a red wine for Christmas dinner, try Ripasso. It’s a strong Italian red wine made by re-fermenting Valpolicella on Amarone grape skins and stems6. This process creates a wine full of rich flavors, perfect for roasts, stews, and other hearty dishes6.
Ripasso wines have about 14% alcohol, great for warming up your holiday6. The Rengo Ripasso costs $17.99 per bottle6. It’s a good deal compared to Amarone, which can cost $53 to $100 or more6.
The Rengo Ripasso got a 90 out of 100 points rating6. It’s made from 70% Corvina and 30% Rondinella grapes6. After the Ripasso process, 15% of Amarone is added, making it even richer6.
Castellani & Figli, the winery, has 40 hectares of vineyards in Valpolicella6. This ensures top-quality grapes for their wines. The Rengo Ripasso is a great choice for a memorable Christmas dinner6.
| Wine | Rating | Price | Grape Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rengo Ripasso | 90/100 | $17.99 | 70% Corvina, 30% Rondinella |
| Amarone (Nicolis) | – | $53 – $100+ | – |
| Amarone (Castellani) | 88/100 | – | – |
“Ripasso wines are popular due to their bold, hearty flavors, such as braised red meats, aged cheeses, and stews.”7
christmas wine: A Yuletide Tradition
Wine has been a big part of Christmas for a long time. Certain wines are special during the holidays8. From sparkling wines in Europe to fortified ports in Portugal, these wines have deep meanings. They are part of holiday traditions worldwide.
A Global Celebration of Seasonal Flavors
Christmas wine traditions vary by country8. In the Philippines, Coconut Wine (Lambanog) is a beloved Christmas drink8. France has Wassailing, a tradition that brings people together in vineyards8. Spain enjoys Cava, a sparkling wine, on Christmas Eve8.
Germany has Feuerzangenbowle, a mulled wine with a flaming sugarloaf8. Argentina celebrates with Malbec wine, symbolizing joy and family8. In the USA, Eggnog is a festive drink enjoyed at holiday parties8. South Africa has mulled wine in summer, blending red wine with citrus and spices8.
These traditions show the flavors of the season and the importance of community at Christmas9. Mistletoe was used in ancient celebrations9. Decorating evergreen trees started in Germany in the 16th century9. Wassail, a medieval English drink, was served during Christmas.
From Cava’s bubbles to Malbec’s richness, these wines capture the holiday spirit. They are enjoyed with meals or shared with friends and family. These wines bring people together, making Christmas special for everyone.
Barbaresco: A Robust Italian Gem
Looking for a bold red wine for Christmas dinner? Try the classic Barbaresco from Italy’s Piedmont region. This tannic wine is full-bodied, with complex aromas and flavors. You’ll taste dried cherries, licorice, and rose petals10.
The aging process makes the tannins soft, giving it a velvety texture. It pairs well with holiday dishes like roasted meats and rich pasta10.
A Taste of Piedmont
Barbaresco is a DOCG wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. It offers a mix of aromas, from roses and cherries to dark spices11. Unlike Barolo, Barbaresco is perfect for Christmas dinner wine11.
The Bruno Giacosa estate started bottling wine in 1961. The winery split into two in 199612. Giacosa’s daughter, Bruna, has kept her father’s legacy alive, making outstanding wines12.
For a hearty roast, savory braised dishes, or rich pasta, Barbaresco is a great choice. Its complex flavors and smooth texture make it a standout Italian red wine10.
“Barbaresco is a true expression of the Piedmont region, with its distinct aromas and flavors that pair beautifully with the hearty dishes of the holiday season.”
White Merlot: A Sweet Surprise
Merlot is often seen as a bold, dry red wine. But white Merlot is a sweet and refreshing alternative for the holidays13. It’s made by limiting grape skin contact, giving it a light, fruity taste with hints of orange, cherry, and berry13. Its sweet and tangy mix makes it great with many holiday foods, from savory starters to sweet treats.
White Merlot is made with a gentle touch, letting its natural sweetness shine14. The winemaking carefully controls skin contact to keep the wine bright and fruity14. This results in a wine that’s easy to enjoy during the holiday season.
Pairing white Merlot with holiday foods is a joy13. Its sweetness pairs well with dishes like smoked baked ham, and its acidity cuts through creamy desserts13. If you’re looking to add a sweet touch to your holiday, white Merlot is a great choice.
This holiday, try something new and enjoy the sweet surprise of white Merlot13. This versatile wine will make your holiday celebrations even more special131415.
Ice Wine: A Dessert Delight
This holiday season, treat yourself to the rich, syrupy taste of ice wine. It comes from Germany and Austria, and Canada made it famous. Ice wine is made from grapes that freeze on the vine, making the wine sweet and flavorful16.
The grapes used are mostly Riesling and Vidal Blanc. They add tropical fruit, citrus, and honey notes to the wine17.
Ice wine pairs well with holiday desserts like fruit tarts and crème brûlée17. It has a golden color and rich flavors, making it a treat for your taste buds18.
Experts say to serve ice wine chilled, between 6°C to 8°C, to enjoy its best18. You can also drink it as an aperitif or with cheese, fruit desserts, and main courses18.
Looking to impress or treat yourself? Ice wine is perfect for the holidays. Enjoy its complex flavors and luxurious feel, making your celebrations unforgettable1718.
Bordeaux: A Classic Pairing
No Christmas wine selection is complete without Bordeaux, France. You can choose from Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon or Right Bank Merlot-based19 wines. Bordeaux’s wines are perfect for holiday meals, with their rich flavors and hearty tastes.
These reds are structured and age well. They balance complexity with elegance. They pair well with roasted meats, root vegetables, and even decadent sauces and gravies.
Start with a Sauvignon Blanc like Pouilly-Fumé or Sancerre for smoked salmon20. For fresh oysters, try a crisp Chablis or Muscadet20. A Californian Pinot Noir is great with turkey20, while Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs well with beef20.
For a sweet treat, Sauternes, Loupiac, or Barsac are perfect with foie gras20.
Looking to wow your guests? Here are some Bordeaux wine picks: Esprit De Puisseguin 2019 for sausage rolls21. Tesco Bordeaux Superieur 2018 is great for crispy turkey and stuffing21. The Society’s Bordeaux Sauvignon 2020 is perfect for goat cheese balls21. Château de Rochemorin 2018 is ideal for mushroom vol-au-vents21.
Bordeaux offers a wide range of styles. There’s a19 perfect pairing for every course of your holiday feast.
Vermouth: A Versatile Aperitif
Vermouth is a fortified wine22 that’s often overlooked but can add joy to your holiday. It’s made with herbs, spices, and botanicals, giving it a complex, aromatic taste. You can enjoy it on its own or in classic cocktails like the Negroni or Manhattan22.
Its bittersweet taste is great for getting your appetite ready for a big Christmas meal. Vermouth’s versatility goes beyond mixing drinks. French vermouth has a lower alcohol content, between 16% to 18%. Italian vermouth, on the other hand, has a higher alcohol content, usually around 18% to 20%23.
French vermouth is drier and lighter, while Italian vermouth is sweeter and more robust23. These differences make vermouth perfect for many holiday drinks and aperitifs.
Whether you like a classic dry martini or a festive holiday negroni, vermouth can make your Christmas cocktails better. Its complex flavors and ability to get you hungry make it a must-have for holiday drinks.
“Vermouth was invented in Torino, Italy in 1786 by Antonio Benedetto Carpano.”22
This holiday season, try different vermouth styles and brands to find what you like best. With its rich history and versatile taste, vermouth is a must-have for your Christmas celebrations.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a time to enjoy the best food and drinks, and wine is key to making Christmas special. From the bubbly prosecco to the sweet ice wine, there are many festive wines to choose from24. These wines can make your holiday parties unforgettable.
When pairing wines with your Christmas feast25, think about the dish’s intensity and the wine’s characteristics. Lighter white wines like Sauvignon Blanc go well with starters like ham or cheeses25. For the main course, a strong red wine like Malbec pairs well with turkey or lamb26.
A refreshing Soave Classico or a Netzl 2019 Rubin can also be great choices26. For dessert, a sweet ice wine or Bernard Magrez Clos des Muraires is perfect26.
The joy of wine is in the shared moments it brings25. This holiday season, enjoy the best christmas wines242625 with friends and family. Let these festive pairings inspire moments of togetherness and joy.
Conclusion
As the holiday season comes near, the right bottle of christmas wine, holiday wine, or festive drinks can make moments with loved ones unforgettable. This guide has shown you various festive wines and drinks to make your celebrations special27.
Looking to impress a crowd or find the perfect wine pairings and wine gifts? These expert tips will make your holiday merry and bright28. Cheers to the best time of the year!
The christmas wine and holiday wine picks in this guide highlight the variety of festive drinks. They can turn your seasonal wines and wine pairings into unforgettable moments. Whether you prefer the bubbly joy of Prosecco or the rich taste of Barbaresco, there’s a wine for every taste and event2728.
FAQ
What are some of the best wines to serve during the holiday season?
How does prosecco compare to other sparkling wines for Christmas?
What is Ripasso and how does it pair with holiday meals?
What is the significance of wine in Christmas traditions?
How does Barbaresco pair with traditional Christmas dinners?
What makes white Merlot a unique option for the holidays?
What are the characteristics of ice wine and how is it enjoyed during the holidays?
How do the wines of Bordeaux, France, pair with traditional Christmas meals?
How can vermouth be incorporated into holiday celebrations?
Source Links
- Top Christmas Wine Picks by James Suckling – https://www.jamessuckling.com/wine-tasting-reports/christmas-wines-make-cheer-go-easy/
- The Best Wines to Serve at Your Christmas Party – https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/g37500480/best-christmas-wines/
- Is Prosecco good for Christmas? – https://prosecco.com/faq/is-prosecco-good-for-christmas/
- Prosecco Christmas Cocktails: Pouring Sparkling Celebrations – https://digibuddha.com/blogs/news/prosecco-christmas-cocktails-pouring-sparkling-celebrations?srsltid=AfmBOopSQ406_ASB7dt9kpehLGJzpw3bMiHJSizd493tDcNmbPkR2RVN
- 15 Best Christmas Prosecco Cocktails | Armchair Sommelier – https://armchairsommelier.com/lifestyle/christmas-prosecco-cocktails/
- This Ripasso Rings A “Bell”! – https://larrythewineguy.net/2018/10/15/this-ripasso-rings-a-bell/
- Best Wines for Christmas Dinner | Learn More – https://www.marketviewliquor.com/blog/best-wines-christmas-dinner/?srsltid=AfmBOor3tEMoaZlbDTK0_07lo7FcdwGHpkrIAmQ1H_k58H82zbl7U9sO
- Christmas Wine Traditions Around The World – https://ralphs.com.ph/blogs/news/christmas-wine-traditions-around-world
- The Surprising History of Christmas Traditions – https://www.rutgers.edu/news/surprising-history-christmas-traditions
- Pairing Italian Wines with your Holiday Meals | Dall’Uva – https://www.dalluva.com/wine-journal/italian-food-wine-pairing-holiday-dinner/
- Dolcetto d’Alba to Barbaresco: The Finest Northern Italian Red Wine – https://eatsimply.co.uk/dolcetto-dalba-to-barbaresco-the-finest-northern-italian-red-wine/
- Bruno Giacosa: Spectacular Barbaresco and Barolo Riserva Wines 1978-2017 – https://terroirsense.com/en/p/6591.html
- I’m Dreaming of a White Wine Christmas – https://darlenemyers.com/2014/12/06/im-dreaming-of-a-white-wine-christmas/
- Bordeaux Wines for the Festive season | Site Officiel Bordeaux.com – https://www.bordeaux.com/gb/wines-for-the-festive-season
- Purchase Our Olympic Peninsula Award Wining Wines Online – https://www.harbingerwinery.com/collections/our-wines
- Sweet wines for Christmas | Fiona Beckett on drink – https://www.theguardian.com/food/2023/dec/15/sweet-wines-for-the-christmas-table-fiona-beckett
- Ice wine: the sweetness of frozen grapes – https://www.vinoble.org/en/blog/ice-wine-sweetness-frozen-grapes
- What’s ice wine? – https://www.lesgrappes.com/en/magazine/parlons-vin/oenologie/quest-ce-que-le-vin-de-glace
- Perfect guide to wine pairing at Christmas – The Good Life France – https://thegoodlifefrance.com/perfect-guide-to-wine-pairing-at-christmas/
- A Guide to Christmas Wine Pairing | Wine Lees – https://winelees.com/christmas-pairing-guide/
- Christmas canapés and Bordeaux wine pairings | Site Officiel Bordeaux.com – https://www.bordeaux.com/gb/Journal/Food/Christmas-canapes-and-Bordeaux-wine-pairings
- Vermouth | Chad Parkhill – http://www.chadparkhill.com/vermouth/
- Understanding the Power of Vermouth Wine Taste | Vermouth Shop – https://vermouthshop.com/understanding-the-power-of-vermouth-wine-taste/
- Wine Pairing Myths Debunked: Practical Tips for Christmas Dishes – https://www.carolinagourmet.com/magazine/wine-pairing-myths-debunked-practical-tips-for-christmas-dishes
- The best wine for Christmas celebrations and parties – https://finding.wine/blogs/blog-posts/the-best-wine-for-christmas-celebrations-and-parties?srsltid=AfmBOop1a4gomfvGVmtS2Yr0GhL_VdLppNCFBSZjoxB79jpRBOo6sHXS
- Toast to Tradition: Best Christmas Wines of 2019 & How Christopher Piper Wines Can Cater To Your Festive Needs – https://www.christopherpiperwines.co.uk/blogs/christmas-wine/toast-to-tradition-best-christmas-wines-of-2019-how-christopher-piper-wines-can-cater-to-your-festive-needs
- Christmas Wine – https://masterofhort.com/2011/01/christmas-wine/
- Wine in history: Christmas mulling and mixing – https://worldoffinewine.com/news-features/wine-in-history-christmas-mulling-and-mixing