My Fine Cellar reveals food and wine pairings that will take this year’s Christmas celebrations to the next level.
Aperitif wines are always in demand at Christmas, whether they’re paired with nibbles prior to the main dining event or keeping a chef well oiled in the kitchen. A classic celebratory wine to kick off proceedings is of course Champagne and Jean Boucton’s Cuvéee Blanc de Blancs is no exception. Smoked salmon pin wheels are the perfect pairing to balance with its vibrant acidity, and are easy to make using tortillas, crème fraiche, chopped chives and lemon juice. Domaine Henry Pellé’s Sauvignon Blanc wines from the Loire Valley also work well to pair with hors d’oeuvres, as their high acidity and mineral texture act as natural palate cleansers. Try the Sancerre la croix au garde with filo-baked figs stuffed with goat’s cheese, or salted pretzels with camembert dip to add a real sense of occasion.
Light reds are an excellent way to traverse from amuse-bouche to starters, offering smooth tannins and gentle weight on the palate. Pinot Noirs from Burgundy such as René Bourgeon Les Pourriéres 2020 will allow bolder food combinations whilst still keeping a freshness to each pairing. Opt for duck samosas with fresh coriander chutney or black pudding croquettes with apple sauce to bring out all of the crunchy red berry flavours from these wines.
When it comes to the main event, there are limitless food and wine combinations. Château Tour Perey 2016 from Bordeaux is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot which will pair beautifully with a rib of beef or leg of lamb. The full bodied nature of this wine will compliment the richness of these meats whilst the powerful tannins will soften with each mouthful. Pork belly or goose on the otherhand require a lighter wine with fresh acidity to lift their rich textures. Try Charles Joguet’s Clos de la Plante Martin 2016, a crisp, dry Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley that will cleanse the palate beautifully.
If venison, partridge or pheasant is on the table this year, pair with a full yet rounded red wine, with plenty of juicy fruit and soft tannins. Try Les Creisses 2020, a smooth blend of Syrah, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon by the eponymous estate based in the Languedoc Rousillon for a more savoury and spicy expression. For lighter birds such as turkey or chicken, fresh styles of white or rosé are optimum. Château Barbanau’s Provencal Rosé 2021 can provide a wonderfully elegant backdrop and is a great crowd pleaser for both white and red wine drinkers.
Wherever you are, whoever you’re with and whatever you’re sipping, we wish you a very Merry Christmas!