The holiday season is upon us, a time to gather with loved ones, savor delicious meals, and raise a glass to celebrate the joy of the festivities. At In Good Taste, we understand that the right wine can elevate these moments, turning ordinary gatherings into extraordinary memories.
In this guide to your 2023 holiday food and wine pairings, we invite you on a journey through the perfect marriage of flavors, exploring the versatility of In Good Taste wines. From classic dishes to decadent desserts, we've curated a selection of pairings that will make your holiday celebrations truly exceptional.
So, grab a glass, settle in, and let's embark on a culinary adventure that combines the art of food and the magic of wine to create unforgettable experiences.
Classic Turkey Delight
No holiday feast is complete without the centerpiece – a beautifully roasted turkey. Whether you opt for a traditional preparation, a smoked masterpiece, or a deep-fried delight, the key to enhancing the flavors lies in the perfect wine pairing.
Enter, Pinot Noir. This wine boasts cranberry, cherry and cola, making it the ideal companion for the succulent and savory notes of turkey. The wine's delicate nature harmonizes seamlessly with the rich flavors of the bird, creating a symphony of taste that will have your guests reaching for seconds.
As you carve into the perfectly cooked turkey, let the subtle nuances of Pinot Noir dance on your palate, adding an extra layer of delight to each bite. It's a pairing that embodies the spirit of the season – warm, comforting, and utterly delicious.
Ham for the Holidays
Moving on to another holiday classic – ham. The smoky, savory goodness of a well-prepared honey baked ham deserves a wine companion that can stand up to its bold flavors. Look no further than Pinotage. This smoky red wine, with its bold flavors, provides the perfect balance to the sweet and savory notes of your holiday ham.
As you savor each bite, you'll appreciate how Pinotage enhances the richness of the ham, creating a delightful contrast that lingers on the palate. It's a pairing that brings out the best in both the dish and the wine, making your holiday meal a true culinary delight.
Irresistible Potatoes Galore
Potatoes, in their various glorious forms, are a holiday staple that never fails to please. Whether mashed, roasted, or gratin, these humble spuds can reach new heights when paired with the right wine. We recommend chardonnay - a rich and lovely white wine that complements the versatility of potato dishes.
Chardonnay’s buttery nature enhances the richness of the potatoes while providing a refreshing contrast that keeps each bite exciting. The result is a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. So, as you indulge in the irresistible potatoes gracing your holiday table, make sure to have a glass of In Good Taste's Chardonnay in hand for the perfect accompaniment.
Decadent Desserts
The holiday season wouldn't be complete without indulging in decadent desserts. From classic Pumpkin Pie to gingerbread cookies and Chocolate Yule log, each sweet treat deserves a wine partner that enhances its flavors.
There are several dry wines that complement dessert, when paired with the right dish. Try pairing your favorite holiday sweets with Riesling, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Moscato, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. Each wine adds its own unique layer of complexity to each bite, creating a dessert experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Examples of these pairings include Chocolate Yule Log with Cabernet Sauvignon, Gingerbread cookies with Riesling, and Moscato with Pumpkin Pie.
Sip and Savor: Wine Tasting Tips
As you embark on this journey of holiday food and wine pairings, take a moment to appreciate the art of wine tasting. To fully savor the flavors of wines, consider the following tips:
- Optimal Serving Temperature: Ensure your wines are served at the right temperature. (White wines at 45 to 55 degrees. Rosé wines at 55 to 60 degrees. Red wines at 60 to 65 degrees.)
- Proper Glassware: Use the appropriate glass for each wine variety to enhance the tasting experience.
- Savor the Aromas: Take a moment to inhale the bouquet of the wine before sipping. The aromas can provide insights into the wine's flavor profile.
- Swirl and Sip: Swirl the wine in your glass to aerate it and release its full potential. Take small sips, allowing the flavors to unfold on your palate.
By savoring your In Good Taste wines with these tips in mind, you'll unlock a world of nuances that will make your holiday celebrations even more memorable.
