Wine Box Experience - Karen Joiner

Cheers to the Festive Feasts (December Edition)

The December holiday season brings a variety of festive meals, from rich roasts to indulgent sides and sweet desserts, making wine pairings an essential part of the celebrations. Classic grape varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay shine during this time. Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold structure and dark fruit flavors pair beautifully with hearty dishes like beef roasts or lamb, while Chardonnay’s creamy texture and hints of vanilla and spice complement buttery mashed potatoes, roasted turkey, and savory stuffing.

For those looking to keep it light and festive, a sparkling wine like Brut or Brut Rosé pairs wonderfully with appetizers, seafood dishes, and celebratory toasts, adding a touch of elegance to any gathering. For a more adventurous approach, consider thinking outside the box with wines like Grenache or Gewürztraminer. A fruit-forward Grenache offers versatility, pairing well with glazed ham, roasted root vegetables, or even spiced side dishes. Gewürztraminer, with its aromatic notes of lychee, ginger, and floral notes, is an enjoyable choice for dishes with complex spices or sweet elements, like honey-glazed carrots or cranberry sauce.

Other wine selections can really standout not just because of how well they complement, but also how they elevate the overall experience by keeping your wine selection interesting and dynamic. Let’s look at what selections are being brought to you this month.

First up let’s take a look at the St. Innocent Pinot Blanc Freedom Hill Vineyard from Oregon. It is an excellent choice for holiday celebrations due to its versatility, bright acidity, and elegant flavors that complement the wide variety of dishes typically served during the season. Pinot Blanc’s subtle beauty offers a lowkey elegance that allows the food it’s paired with to shine. It’s also a great choice for guests who prefer a lighter, refreshing wine that still delivers complexity and depth.

Not to be left far behind we bring you the De Toren La Jeunesse Delicate Red from South Africa. Being a Malbec-dominated blend it offers a fresh and light style. This wine is perfect on its own as an aperitif, especially when served with a light chill, or paired with traditional holiday food like a green bean casserole, herb-infused stuffing, charcuterie boards, and roasted poultry. The balance of acidity gives this wine a unique character by being fresh, youthful, and light.

Thinking creatively with your wine selections allows you to bring a fresh and unexpected element to the holiday season. Whether sticking with timeless varietals or exploring something new, thoughtful wine pairings can elevate your December holiday celebrations, bringing out the best in both the food and the parties.