Sip into the Holiday Spirit: Top 10 Christmas Beer and Wine Pairings

As the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to enjoying a glass or two of our favorite holiday beverages. But have you ever thought about pairing your Christmas drinks with the perfect food to elevate the experience? In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Christmas beer and wine pairings that will make your holiday gatherings even more special.

A Classic Combination: Beer and Roasted Turkey

One of the most popular Christmas dinner combinations is beer and roasted turkey. A crisp, hoppy IPA pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of roasted turkey, while a malty amber ale complements the rich, meaty flavors of the bird.

For a more unique twist, try pairing your turkey with a Belgian-style wheat beer. The spicy, citrus notes in these beers will cut through the richness of the turkey and leave you wanting more.

A Wine for the Win: Pinot Noir and Ham

When it comes to pairing wine with Christmas dinner, one of the most classic combinations is Pinot Noir and ham. The light-bodied red wine complements the delicate flavors of the ham, while its acidity cuts through the richness of any accompanying sides.

For a more adventurous take on this pairing, try adding some sweet and smoky notes to your ham with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar. This will complement the fruit-forward flavors in Pinot Noir perfectly.

Bubbly and Brie: Champagne and Cheese

Who says bubbly is only for New Year’s Eve? A glass of champagne pairs perfectly with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert, adding a touch of sophistication to any holiday gathering.

For an added layer of complexity, try pairing your champagne with some sweet and savory notes. A fruit-forward Brut Champagne complements the creaminess of brie beautifully, while a Blanc de Noir adds a dry and earthy note that pairs perfectly with richer cheeses.

The Perfect Pairing: Eggnog and Porter

For those who love eggnog but are looking for something more adventurous, try pairing it with a rich and malty porter. The sweetness of the eggnog complements the roast flavors in the beer, while the nutmeg notes add a warm and inviting touch to the combination.

This is especially true during the holiday season when eggnog is often served as part of Christmas dinner. A well-crafted port can elevate the experience, adding depth and complexity to the sweetness of the eggnog.

Sparking Joy: Sparkling Water and Ginger Beer

For those who prefer a bubbly drink without the added calories of champagne or beer, try pairing sparkling water with ginger beer. The spicy kick in ginger beer adds a touch of excitement to any holiday gathering, while the bubbles cut through even the richest of flavors.

This combination is especially refreshing during the holiday season when all that rich food can leave you feeling weighed down. A glass of bubbly and some ginger beer will revive your spirits and have everyone around the table smiling.

Red Wine and Red Fruit: Cabernet Sauvignon and Cherry Pie

For those who love a classic red wine with their holiday dinner, try pairing it with some sweet and tangy cherry pie. The bold tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the richness of the pastry crust, while its fruit-forward flavors complement the tartness of the cherries.

This combination is especially popular during Christmas when cherry pie is a staple dessert at many holiday gatherings. A glass of rich and full-bodied red wine elevates the experience, adding depth and complexity to the sweetness of the pastry.

The Ultimate Pairing: Chocolate Mousse and Beer

For those who love chocolate mousse as a sweet treat during the holiday season, try pairing it with your favorite beer. The rich, creamy flavors in the chocolate are cut through perfectly by the malty sweetness of a Belgian ale, while the acidity of a sour beer adds a tangy touch to the richness of the mousse.

This combination is especially decadent and perfect for those who love chocolate as part of their holiday treats. A rich and full-bodied porter or stout elevates the experience, adding depth and complexity to the richness of the chocolate.

A Wine for All: White Zinfandel and Holiday Leftovers

For those who are looking for a wine that pairs perfectly with leftover holiday food, try pairing it with some sweet and fruity white Zinfandel. The light-bodied red wine complements the delicate flavors of turkey or ham, while its acidity cuts through even the richest of leftovers.

This combination is especially helpful when it comes to repurposing last night’s dinner into a delicious new dish for today’s lunch. A glass of bubbly and some leftover turkey or ham makes for the perfect pairing, elevating the experience with every sip.