Perfect Pairings: Best Wines for Your Christmas Dinner
An Australian Christmas often means celebrating in the warmth of summer, surrounded by family and friends, enjoying a laid-back outdoor feast. While traditional roasts are still on the menu, the lighter, more refreshing flavours of the season’s produce call for wines that complement the sunny, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re grilling seafood, enjoying a barbecue, or serving a cold-cut platter, the right wine can elevate your Australian Christmas dinner. Here’s a guide to some of the best wines to pair with your festive meal.
Seafood and Crisp Whites
Seafood is a Christmas favourite, whether it’s prawns, oysters, or a fresh fish platter. For these light, fresh dishes, a crisp, aromatic white wine works best. Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice, with its zesty acidity and citrus notes that complement the delicate flavours of seafood. Another great option is Chardonnay, particularly a more unoaked style, which brings out fresh fruit flavours without overwhelming the food. If you prefer something a little more adventurous, a Vermentino or Grüner Veltliner can bring a refreshing minerality and subtle herbaceous notes to the table.
Barbecued Meats and Red Wines
An Aussie Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a barbecue, and when it comes to grilled meats, red wines are a perfect match. For steaks, sausages, or lamb chops, consider a Shiraz, which is the quintessential Australian red. Its bold fruit flavours, spice, and smoky notes complement the charred goodness of the grill. If you prefer something a little lighter, Grenache or Pinot Noir work well with grilled meats, offering juicy red fruit flavours and a soft texture that pairs nicely with the smoky, savoury qualities of the barbecue.
Cold Meats and Rosé
Cold meats like ham or turkey are often served at Australian Christmas feasts, and a refreshing, fruity wine like a dry Rosé can work wonders with these dishes. The bright acidity and berry flavours in a Rosé provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of glazed ham or the richness of turkey. For a more classic pairing, Pinot Gris or a light Riesling also work beautifully, bringing a touch of sweetness and freshness to balance the richness of the meats.
Salads, Vegetables, and Light Whites
Christmas in Australia also means fresh salads and seasonal vegetables, and for these lighter dishes, opt for wines that are crisp and vibrant. Sauvignon Blanc is again a great option, especially with tangy, vinaigrette-dressed salads. Chardonnay (unoaked) or Grüner Veltliner are also great choices for pairing with roasted vegetables or creamy potato salads, offering enough acidity to cut through richness while enhancing the fresh flavours.
Christmas dinner is all about enjoying fresh, vibrant flavours in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re indulging in seafood, firing up the barbecue, or enjoying cold meats and salads, the right wine will enhance your meal and make your festive gathering even more memorable. From crisp whites for seafood to bold reds for the barbecue, there’s a wine to suit every dish on your Aussie Christmas table. Cheers to a sunny and delicious celebration!
