Christmas Cheers: Favourite Holiday Wines from Around the World

As we enter the mid of November, let’s celebrate the significance of Christmas—a time for reflection, gratitude, and togetherness. Whether through beloved traditions or fresh experiences, this time encourages us to honour love and kindness in every form. With the holiday season drawing near, here’s a glimpse of the wines pairing that are popular holiday favourites around the globe, bringing unique flavours and traditions to Christmas tables worldwide:

ITALY

Pio Cesare Gavi DOCG is an excellent accompaniment to seafood starters like prawn cocktails and smoked salmon, as its bright acidity and mineral notes enhance the flavours of these dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, particularly when served with herb-based sauces, as the wine's acidity effectively cuts through the richness of the meat.

AUSTRALIA

Christmas falls during the summer months in Australia, with Shiraz (Amelia Park Reserve Shiraz) being a popular choice for barbecued meats and outdoor feasts. The wine's bold character is especially enjoyable when chilled, making it more refreshing and a perfect wine for Singapore's tropical weather.

SPAIN

Murrieta's Capellanía is an ideal pairing for creamy sauces, as its bright acidity and refreshing character help to balance the richness of the dish, such as fettuccine Alfredo or pasta primavera. This interplay balance keeps each bite feel light and satisfying. A lingering finish from Capellanía adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Full-bodied reds from Rioja have firm tannins that provide a solid backbone, bringing depth and richness to lamb or roast pork dishes without overwhelming the savoury meat flavour. Marqués de Murrieta's Gran Reserva is one such prestigious wine that exemplifies the pinnacle of Rioja winemaking, crafted from selected grapes from exceptional vintages and undergo prolonged aging. A luxurious pairing for hearty holiday dishes.

PORTUGAL

Christmas wouldn’t be complete in Portugal without a glass of Port. This Ramos Pinos tawny Port is aged for 20/30 years in oak barrels, allowing it to develop deep flavours and a smooth texture. The long aging process results in a wine with a beautiful amber color and a bouquet of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Drink this with your favourite Christmas cakes and desserts.

JAPAN

For the Sake lovers, the Toji Series Edition II, Osaka's second 'Limited Edition Koshu blend,' embodies the philosophy of Daimon Brewery in premium sake production. This powerful sake boasts exceptional flavours that complement the richness and saltiness of caviar, creating a perfect pairing where the finest elements come together.