Follow these simple tips to choose the right wine, every time.
When wine and food are properly paired, the flavours of each are enhanced, taking your dining experience from good to exceptional. So, it pays to keep a few basics in mind!
As a general rule, red wines pair better with bold red meat, while whites go nicely with lighter options, such as chicken and seafood. Think about the flavours in the food you’re serving and pair bold with bold, delicate with delicate. A lighter drop will taste watery if paired with a rich, spicy dish.
Food temperature plays a role in how you serve your wine, too. Roast turkey straight from the oven will call for a room-temperature tipple, but cold Boxing Day leftovers go best with a chilled drop.
Of course, sparkling wine is a Christmas-feast staple and according to experts, is perfect to sip with anything salty, as the slight sweetness of champagne makes it extra refreshing in contrast.
If all else fails, choose a ‘flexible’ wine, such as a sauvignon blanc or a dry riesling. The high acidity in both encourages a perfect balancing act that leaves you wanting to take a bite after having a sip, and longing for a sip after you’ve taken a bite.
Light & aromatic whites
Sauvignon blanc, pinot gris and riesling.
Perfect with
Seafood, antipasto and salads.
These wines are ideal paired with the plethora of seafood dishes characteristic of a True Blue Christmas. Think: a crisp pinot gris with the delicate flavour of tender prawns, or an elegant riesling perfectly complementing the smoky saltiness of the classic smoked salmon.
Medium-weight whites
Chardonnay.
Perfect with
Cheese, roasted white meats and vegetables.
A typical starter at Christmas time, the pungent flavours of the cheese board will benefit from the medium bodied and luscious notes in a good chardonnay. For ease of choice, get a couple of extra bottles to serve if your main is roast turkey.
Light to medium reds
Pinot noir.
Perfect with
Red and white meats, breads and pasta dishes.
For those who aren’t fond of the depth of a full-bodied red wine or would just like a lighter option, try a pinot noir. Typically served room temperature, this wine pairs perfectly with the usual Christmas mains.
Richer, fuller bodied reds
Shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.
Perfect with
Red and white meats, anything grilled on the BBQ and sharp cheese.
The rich and flavourful notes of a full-bodied red are ideal for the classic Aussie Christmas barbecue. Drink if your spread includes lamb chops, snags or even an after dinner selection of sharp cheddar or blue cheese.
Originally published in The Costco Connection, Christmas 2019. Pick up the latest copy at your local warehouse or read it online.
