Best Wine to Pair with Christmas Dinner

Classic roast turkey, a centerpiece of many Christmas dinners, pairs beautifully with both red and white wines. Pinot Noir offers bright red fruit and subtle earthiness that complement the mild flavor of turkey and herb-infused stuffing. For white wine lovers, a lightly oaked Chardonnay brings creamy notes and balanced acidity, enhancing the moist texture and savory seasoning of the bird.

With its sweet and savory glaze, holiday ham calls for wines that can handle both richness and subtle sweetness. Zinfandel is a great match, providing juicy berry flavors and a spicy kick that stands up to the ham’s bold taste. For a white option, an off-dry Riesling brings refreshing acidity and a touch of sweetness, making it a lively partner for glazed ham.

Prime rib is a luxurious Christmas main, known for its tender, marbled beef. Merlot shines here with its plush texture, ripe plum flavors, and gentle tannins that complement the richness of the meat. If you prefer a more robust red, Cabernet Sauvignon offers firm structure and deep blackcurrant notes that stand up to the hearty flavors of prime rib.

A nut roast, packed with earthy lentils, nuts, and herbs, is a festive vegetarian alternative. Grenache is a versatile red with soft tannins and bright berry notes that highlight the savory, nutty flavors of the dish. For a white wine, Viognier brings floral aromas and stone fruit character, enhancing the complexity of the nut roast without overpowering it.

Herbaceous stuffing and a medley of traditional sides deserve wines that can match their variety and vibrancy. Sauvignon Blanc offers zesty citrus and herbal notes that lift the flavors of vegetables and herbs. For a red, Beaujolais (made from Gamay) is light, fruity, and low in tannins, making it a refreshing match for a plate filled with diverse side dishes.

Classic Christmas desserts such as fruitcake, mince pies, and yule log benefit from sweet, aromatic wines. Moscato d’Asti is lightly sparkling and fragrant, offering delicate sweetness that pairs well with festive pastries and lighter desserts. For richer treats like fruitcake, Tawny Port delivers caramel, dried fruit, and nutty flavors that echo the holiday spirit.

• Consider the main proteins – Choose wines that complement the main meats on your table, such as Pinot Noir for roast turkey and Zinfandel for glazed ham.
• Enhance the sides – Pair vibrant wines like Sauvignon Blanc with herbaceous stuffing and sides to lift their flavors.
• Match the sweetness of desserts – Opt for sweet wines like Moscato d’Asti or Tawny Port to harmonize with the sugary notes of Christmas desserts.
• Balance the richness – Select medium-bodied reds like Merlot for richer dishes such as prime rib to balance their hearty flavors.
• Complement vegetarian options – Choose versatile wines like Grenache or Viognier to enhance vegetarian dishes such as nut roast.