Holiday food pairing suggestions
The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, food! If you’re looking to impress your guests with a delicious meal thisholiday season, we’ve got the perfect wine pairing recipes for you. No matter what you’re serving, we’ve got a wine that will complement your dish perfectly.
Pinot Noir
If you’re serving beef or lamb this holiday season, our pick is pinot noir. This full-bodied red wine has flavors of black cherry and cranberry, making it the perfect complement to rich meats. For a pinot noir that’s sure to please, try the Meadowcroft Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.
Cabernet Sauvignon
For all you chicken lovers out there, our recommendation is cabernet sauvignon. This dry red wine pairs well with roasted chicken or turkey and has flavors of blackberry and cedar. We recommend trying our Cabernet Sauvignon from the Oakville District in the Napa Valley.
Zinfandel
Whether you’re making ham or pork chops, zinfandel is the wine for you. This fruity red wine has flavors of plum and pepper and is sure to please your guests. We recommend the Speedy Creek Zinfandel from the Knight’s Valley AVA.
Pinot Blanc
Looking for a white wine to pair with your holiday meal? Pinot Blanc is our top pick. This crisp white wine has hints of apple and pear and pairs well with fish or poultry dishes. For a Pinot Blanc that’s sure to please, try the Pinot Blanc from Meadowcroft.
Chardonnay
And last but not least, Chardonnay! This buttery white wine pairs well with creamy dishes like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. For a chardonnay that’s sure to satisfy, we recommend the Meadowcroft Napa-Carneros Chardonnay.
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide what wine to serve with your holiday meal. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Our list of holiday wine pairing recipes has something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a glass of your favorite holiday wine. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best food pairings for Chardonnay?
Chardonnay pairs well with a variety of foods. Try buttery dishes like lobster, roasted chicken, or creamy pasta for oaked Chardonnay. Unoaked Chardonnay complements lighter fare such as grilled fish, fresh salads, or vegetable dishes.
2. What makes Sonoma wines unique for food pairing?
Sonoma wines are celebrated for their diversity, reflecting the region’s varied climates and terroirs. This versatility means you can find Sonoma wines to complement nearly any dish, from crisp whites like Chardonnay to bold reds like Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.
3. What types of cheese pair best with Chardonnay?
Chardonnay pairs well with a range of cheeses. Soft and creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert enhance its buttery notes, while firmer cheeses like Gruyère or aged cheddar can highlight its richness and complexity.
4. Is Chardonnay a good choice for vegetarian meals?
Absolutely! Chardonnay complements vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto, grilled asparagus, roasted cauliflower, and creamy vegetable soups. Its versatility works well with both light and rich vegetarian options.
5. What is the ideal serving temperature for Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F (16-18°C). If it’s too warm, the alcohol may dominate the flavors; if it’s too cold, the aromas may be muted.
