6 Wines for a Perfect Christmas Dinner
Pairing Suggestions from a French Winemaker
Have you set your Christmas wine list?
Julien is here with his top picks for Christmas dinner—from bubbles (he won’t be serving Champagne) to dessert (sherry, anyone?), plus two whites and two reds for a perfectly balanced Christmas wine experience.
Choosing the Right Wine for Christmas
The best wine for Christmas is the one you’re going to pick—just like the best companion in life is the one you’re with. You should cherish what you have more than what might have been. Still, to find the perfect vino, there are a few tips and rules worth considering.
And that’s what I want you to know.
Hello and welcome to your New Bonner Private Wines video, where we learn together about wine every week. I’m your host, Julien Miquel, a Bordeaux-trained French winemaker turned professional wine taster.
I’ve been making and commenting on fine wine for over 25 years, and this year will be my 45th Christmas. I’ve had my fair share of poultry with red wine and foie gras with Champagne.
Today, I want to discuss why all I want for Christmas is wine. Not just because I’m French—although I do love my vino—but because I’ll walk you through:
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The wine styles you should have for Christmas
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Basic food-pairing etiquette
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My personal favorite wines for the holidays
While they whine, we wine. Let’s go.
Why Wine Is Perfect for Christmas
Wine is a festive drink that helps create a celebratory atmosphere. It’s also the finest alcoholic drink—much more refined than beer, and not as harsh as hard liquor—making it more versatile and easier to pair with food.
Wine is also a great conversation starter and an ideal gift. It represents sharing and brings a sense of prestige to the dinner table.
Essential Wine Styles for Christmas
Sparkling Wines
Champagne or sparkling wine is a classic choice. Brut or extra-brut styles work best thanks to their dryness, complexity, and food-friendliness. If Champagne isn’t in your budget, there are excellent alternatives worth exploring.
Rich White Wines
Full-bodied whites such as Chardonnay or Viognier are excellent with richer winter dishes like roasted poultry or ham, thanks to their texture and buttery notes.
Light Red Wines
Lighter reds like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais pair beautifully with turkey or salmon. They offer delicate red-fruit flavors, elegance, and subtle earthiness.
Full-Bodied Red Wines
Richer reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz bring more tannin and body, making them ideal for hearty dishes like beef Wellington or roast lamb.
Dessert Wines
Sweet wines like Sauternes, Muscat, Port, or Sherry are wonderful with Christmas pudding or fruitcake, offering flavors of honey, dried fruits, and caramel.
How to Use These Wines During the Meal
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Sparkling wine: Apéritif and toasts before the meal; can return at dessert
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White wines: Starters, salads, seafood, oysters, smoked salmon
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Red wines: Meaty mains, charcuterie boards, cheese
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Dessert wines: Desserts and post-meal sipping during long conversations
If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be well covered for a delicious and harmonious Christmas meal.
Julien’s Personal Christmas Picks
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Sparkling: Spanish Cava for its value and quality
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Whites:
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Viognier for rich, oily, flavorful dishes
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Riesling for a crisper, fresher option
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Reds:
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Beaujolais for a lighter style
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Bordeaux (Margaux or Pomerol) for depth and elegance
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Dessert: Amontillado Sherry
Now it’s your turn.
What are your favorite wines for Christmas? Which styles do you choose, and with which dishes? Share your picks and let the conversation inspire everyone.
Cheers!
