A Guide to Ordering Holiday Wines and Spirits

The holidays are a time to gather, indulge, and celebrate with loved ones, and few things elevate a meal or gathering like the perfect wine or spirit. Whether you’re hosting an intimate celebratory dinner, a festive Christmas brunch, or an elegant New Year’s Eve soirée, having the right selections on hand ensures your gatherings are as memorable as they are delicious.

This guide will walk you through choosing the best wines to pair with classic holiday recipes, suggest versatile liquors for cocktails and sipping, and provide options for after-dinner indulgence.

Perfect Wine Pairings for Popular Holiday Dishes

1. Turkey with Traditional Sides

   • Wine Pairing: A light, fruity red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.
   • Why It Works: Pinot Noir complements the savory herbs and buttery textures of turkey and stuffing, while Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with bright, acidic cranberry sauce and vegetables.

2. Honey-Glazed Ham

   • Wine Pairing: Riesling or Zinfandel.
   • Why It Works: Riesling’s sweetness balances the salty-sweet glaze of the ham, while Zinfandel’s bold fruitiness cuts through the richness.

3. Prime Rib Roast

   • Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
   • Why It Works: These robust reds have the tannins and body to stand up to the richness of the beef and its savory seasonings.

4. Roasted Salmon or Other Fish

   • Wine Pairing: French Chardonnay or Pinot Gris.
   • Why It Works: A French Chardonnay enhances the creamy and savory notes of roasted fish, while Pinot Gris brings a refreshing citrus lift.

5. Vegetarian Dishes (Stuffed Squash, Mushroom Risotto)

   • Wine Pairing: Beaujolais or Chenin Blanc.
   • Why It Works: Beaujolais is light and fruity enough to complement earthy vegetables, while Chenin Blanc’s balanced acidity adds a refreshing contrast.

6. Holiday Desserts

   • Wine Pairing: Port, Moscato or Sautern.
   • Why It Works: Port pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts, while Moscato or Sautern complements fruit-based desserts like pies and tarts.

Essential Spirits for the Season

For those moments when wine isn’t the answer or you want to elevate your holiday bar, here’s a selection of versatile spirits to have on hand:

1. Whiskey/Bourbon

   • Ideal for cozy evenings by the fire, sipping neat or in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Hot Toddy.
   • Recommended Brands: Woodford Reserve, Glenfiddich, or Maker’s Mark.

2. Vodka

   • Perfect for festive cocktails, from classic Martinis to holiday-themed drinks like Cranberry Moscow Mules.
   • Recommended Brands: Belvedere, Grey Goose, or Tito’s.

3. Gin

   • Refreshing and aromatic, gin is a favorite for elegant holiday cocktails like French 75s or classic Gin and Tonics with a twist of rosemary.
   • Recommended Brands: Hendrick’s, Tanqueray, or The Botanist.

4. Rum

   • A must-have for eggnog, punches, or spiced winter cocktails.
   • Recommended Brands: Mount Gay, Plantation Rum, or Diplomatico.

5. Brandy/Cognac

   • Smooth and warming, these are perfect for after-dinner sipping or adding depth to cocktails.
   • Recommended Brands: Rémy Martin, Hennessy, or Germain-Robin.

After-Dinner Indulgences

To cap off the evening, serve something special alongside dessert or coffee. These choices offer the perfect balance of indulgence and refinement:

1. Port Wine

   • Best served with cheese platters, chocolate desserts, or simply sipped on its own.

2. Sherry

   • A fortified wine with nutty, caramelized notes that pairs beautifully with holiday pastries or nuts.

3. Amaro

   • A bittersweet Italian digestif that aids digestion after a heavy meal. Serve neat or over ice.
   • Recommended Brands: Averna, Fernet-Branca, or Montenegro.

4. Bailey’s Irish Cream or Kahlúa

   • A sweet, creamy addition to coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert alternative.

5. Champagne or Sparkling Wine

   • A celebratory way to close the evening with a toast. Look for Brut for a dry finish or Demi-Sec for a sweeter option.
   • Recommended Brands: Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, or Mumm Napa.

Tips for Stocking Your Holiday Bar

1. Versatile Wines: Choose wines that can pair with multiple dishes, such as a balanced Pinot Noir or a French Chardonnay.
2. Cocktail Staples: Stock essential mixers like tonic water, soda water, bitters, and fresh citrus to create a variety of cocktails.
3. Glassware: Ensure you have the right glassware for each drink, from wine glasses to coupe glasses for sparkling cocktails.
4. Chilled Options: Keep Champagne or sparkling wines chilled for toasts and impromptu celebrations.
5. Festive Touches: Garnish cocktails with seasonal touches like sugared cranberries, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of rosemary.

A Touch of The Mayfair Hall

At The Mayfair Hall, we believe the holidays should be as elegant as they are memorable. Explore our collection of barware, including stunning decanters, glassware, and serving trays, to elevate your hosting experience. Our carefully curated pieces ensure every pour is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Raise a glass to the season and toast to making your gatherings unforgettable. Cheers to the holidays!