Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on December 15, 2023 and has been refreshed and updated as of December 15, 2025.
By December 15, the holiday season is already well underway. Hanukkah began on December 14, Christmas arrives on December 25, and Kwanzaa follows from December 26 through January 1. Different traditions, different rhythms, and a full stretch of celebrations ahead.
With so many gatherings unfolding across the season, this is the moment when wine choices really matter. Menus range from crispy, comforting classics to seafood spreads, vegetable-forward dishes, and indulgent desserts, often all in the same week.
Rather than defaulting to the usual holiday bottles, this is the perfect time to explore wines that feel a little unexpected. The right pairing can elevate each celebration and make every table feel just a bit more festive.
Let’s take a fresh look at holiday wine choices that bring something new to the glass.
How To Choose A Holiday Wine
During the holiday season, we often find ourselves reaching for the familiar comfort of a Chardonnay. While it’s a reliable choice, the holiday season is about magic and wonder – feelings that call for something a bit more special. This year, why not venture into the world of wines that truly capture the essence of the holidays?
1. Cheesy, Fried, and Fabulous: Pairing for High-Fat Foods
From Hanukkah’s crispy potato latkes to decadent cheese boards, fatty foods love wines with high acidity. The acidity cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors beautifully. Reach for:
- A dry German Riesling – Bright, zesty, and refreshing.
- French Gewürztraminer – Floral and slightly spicy for a fun twist.
2. Seafood Spectacular: Perfect Picks for Shellfish and Oysters
While sparkling wine is a classic, try a crisp white with minerality for a fresh approach. These wines play nicely with the salty, briny flavors of shellfish:
- Sauvignon Blanc – Zingy and citrus-forward.
- Sancerre – A French favorite with elegant minerality.
3. Prime Rib with a Twist: Bold Reds for Hearty Meats
The holidays often mean tender prime rib on the table. While a classic Cabernet Sauvignon is a safe bet, why not wow your guests with something bold yet unexpected?
- California Petit Sirah – Deep, intense, and packed with dark fruit flavors.
4. Kwanzaa Flavors: Off-Dry Wines for Fruits and Veggies
Celebrating Kwanzaa? Its traditional dishes often highlight fruits and vegetables like squash, sweet potatoes, okra, and bananas. Off-dry wines complement these flavors wonderfully. Try:
- Malvasia Bianca – A floral Italian wine with a touch of sweetness.
- Fruity Grenache – Versatile and vibrant.
5. Sweet Endings: Wines for Holiday Desserts
No matter the holiday, desserts always steal the show. From Christmas cookies to Hanukkah’s jelly donuts and Kwanzaa’s pumpkin pie, sweet wines are a must. Swap out the usual port for these delightful alternatives:
- Late Harvest Zinfandel – Jammy and indulgent.
- Sauternes – A luxurious French dessert wine
When in doubt, try them all! There’s no wrong choice when celebrating, as long as you enjoy responsibly. Keep the festivities merry by ensuring everyone has a safe ride home.
Cheers from Wine Lovers Travel to a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and delightful holiday wines!