November - Festive wines in the spotlight
November marks the start of the festive season, a time when family and friends gather to celebrate, feast and enjoy delicious food. To make your end-of-year meals even more memorable, we present festive wines and ideas for tasty pairings.
1. Champagne and Sparkling
Champagne and sparkling wines are festive must-haves. Their light bubbles bring joy and elegance to every occasion. Opt for a brut champagne or sparkling prosecco as an aperitif, or accompany your Christmas meal with a crémant or cava.
2. Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile grape variety that can be enjoyed in a variety of styles. Rich, creamy Chardonnays pair well with poultry, seafood or buttery sauces. They're perfect for a Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey.
3. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is another popular choice for the holidays. Its red fruit aromas and finesse make it an excellent companion for light meat dishes, such as lamb or duck. It's also ideal with a variety of cheese platters.
4. Syrah / Shiraz
Syrah-based wines, known as shiraz in some regions, are perfect for rich, spicy dishes. Their structure and intensity pair well with beef, game or roast dishes.
5. Sweet wines
For dessert, don't overlook sweet wines. A sweet Sauternes, a vintage port or an ice wine will go perfectly with sweet desserts, fruit tarts and chocolate platters.
Ideas for tasty pairings
Festive aperitif: Pair amuse-bouches and smoked salmon toast with brut champagne or sparkling prosecco.
Thanksgiving dinner: Serve a creamy Chardonnay with chestnut turkey and roasted vegetables.
Christmas dinner: Pair an elegant pinot noir with crusted beef tenderloin and au gratin potatoes.
Cheese tasting: Explore a variety of cheeses with a platter of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah.
Gourmet desserts: Complement your desserts with a sweet wine, such as sauternes or vintage port.
Festive wines are designed to celebrate and enhance the flavors of festive meals. Whether you're preparing a Thanksgiving feast, Christmas dinner or New Year's Eve, choose wines that will delight your taste buds and create lasting memories. Celebrate the holidays in style with delicious wines and tasty pairings.