As winter descends upon us, the world comes alive with a myriad of cultural celebrations, each boasting its own unique dishes that reflect the rich tapestry of traditions. From Christmas and Hanukkah to Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Soyal, and Winter Solstice, these holidays showcase the diversity of global festivities. For many, it is a gastronomic journey of the traditional dishes of these celebrations. With our corkscrews at the ready, we’re excited to reveal wine pairings that will add an extra layer of joy to your holiday table.

Christmas

Christmas is celebrated with a festive spread that varies from country to country. In many Western cultures, roast turkey or ham takes center stage. For a classic pairing, a well-balanced red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of the meat. In regions where fish is the star, such as Scandinavia, a crisp and acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the delicate flavors.

For desserts like Christmas pudding or fruitcake, consider a sweet and fortified wine like Port or a late-harvest Zinfandel. SOMM&SOMM recommends opting for a tawny Port with its nutty undertones to harmonize with the spiced complexity of these traditional treats.

Recommended wines:

Duckhorn Vineyards Carneros Napa Valley Merlot (Classic)

Graham’s 20 Year Tawny Port (SOMM&SOMM)

Hanukkah

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with dishes that pay homage to the miracle of oil. Latkes, crispy potato pancakes, and sufganiyot, jelly-filled doughnuts, are holiday staples. A sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, provides a lively contrast to the fried delights. The effervescence cuts through the oil, cleansing the palate for the next delicious bite.

For the main course, whether it’s brisket or roasted chicken, a medium to full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot complements the savory richness of the meat. SOMM&SOMM suggests choosing a wine with soft tannins and a hint of spice to elevate the experience.

Recommended wines:

Hagafen Merlot (OU Kosher) (Classic)

Baron Herzog Alexander Valley Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (OU Kosher)(SOMM&SOMM)

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa, a celebration of African heritage, features a feast known as Karamu. Traditional dishes include jerk chicken, collard greens, and jollof rice. For the bold flavors of jerk chicken, a Zinfandel or a Syrah provides a perfect balance of fruitiness and spice.

Collard greens pair well with a white wine like a Viognier or a Chardonnay. SOMM&SOMM recommends selecting a wine with good acidity to cut through the richness of the greens. For jollof rice, a versatile red blend or a Sangiovese complements the tomato-based dish, enhancing its depth of flavor.

Recommended wines:

Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel (Classic)

Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Chardonnay (SOMM&SOMM)

Las Posadas

In Mexico, the nine-night celebration of Las Posadas features tamales, bacalao (salted cod), and ponche, a warm fruit punch. For tamales, a light and fruity red wine like a Beaujolais or a Tempranillo complements the masa and various fillings. Bacalao calls for a crisp and refreshing white wine such as Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the saltiness.

Ponche Navideño, with its blend of fruits and spices, pairs well with a sweet and aromatic wine like a Gewürztraminer or a Moscato. SOMM&SOMM suggests selecting a wine with a touch of spice to harmonize with the festive flavors of this Mexican holiday punch.

Recommended wines:

Valserrano Rioja Gran Reserva (Classic)

Michele Chiarlo Nivole Moscato d’Asti (SOMM&SOMM)

Soyal

Soyal, celebrated by the Hopi and other Native American tribes, involves rituals and feasting to welcome the winter solstice. Traditional dishes include blue corn mush, succotash, and roasted meats. Blue corn mush pairs well with a light and earthy white wine like a Chenin Blanc or a Grüner Veltliner.

Succotash, a medley of beans and corn, harmonizes with a crisp and herbal Sauvignon Blanc or a Vermentino. For roasted meats like venison or bison, a robust red wine such as Malbec or Syrah complements the gamey flavors. SOMM&SOMM recommends choosing a wine with bold tannins and dark fruit notes.

Recommended wines:

Hiedler Thal Gruner Veltliner (Classic)

Catena Alta Malbec (SOMM&SOMM)

Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice, celebrated around the world on December 21, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. Traditional dishes include hearty stews, root vegetables, and spiced desserts. For stews, a rustic red wine like a Grenache or a Côtes du Rhône enhances the savory and aromatic qualities of the dish.

Root vegetables pair well with a medium to full-bodied white wine such as a Viognier or a Roussanne. SOMM&SOMM suggests selecting a wine with a touch of oak to complement the earthy flavors. Spiced desserts, like gingerbread or mulled wine poached fruits, call for a sweet and spicy dessert wine such as a late-harvest Gewürztraminer or a Vin Santo.

Recommended wines:

Chateau De Nages Heritage Rouge Vieilles Vignes (Classic)

Truchard Estate Roussanne (SOMM&SOMM)

This holiday season, let your table be a reflection of the rich and diverse tapestry of global traditions. Whether you’re savoring the flavors of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Soyal, or the Winter Solstice, expert wine pairings can elevate your festive feast. With the guidance of a sommelier, each sip will be a celebration of the unique cultural heritage that makes the holiday season a truly global and joyous affair. Cheers to a world of flavors and a season filled with warmth and merriment! 🍷