Winter wines are typically wines that pair well with cozy, hearty meals and the colder weather. During the winter, people tend to gravitate toward wines that offer warmth, richness, and complexity. Here are some of the best types of wines for winter:
Red Wines (Great for cozying up by the fire!)
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Cabernet Sauvignon
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Why: Full-bodied with bold flavors of dark fruit (blackberry, plum) and often notes of tobacco, leather, and oak. Its tannin structure makes it perfect for winter dishes like roast meats, stews, and hearty casseroles.
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Syrah/Shiraz
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Why: This wine is rich and spicy with dark berry flavors, pepper, and sometimes smoky or meaty notes. It's great with winter comfort foods like braised meats, chili, or grilled steak.
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Zinfandel
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Why: Known for its jammy fruit and peppery spice, Zinfandel can range from bold to medium-bodied and is perfect for rich, flavorful dishes like barbecued meats, sausages, or spicy pasta.
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Malbec
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Why: Full-bodied with ripe dark fruit flavors, smooth tannins, and hints of chocolate and spice. Malbec is an excellent match for grilled or roasted meats, particularly in colder months.
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Merlot
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Why: Soft and velvety, Merlot has a plush texture with flavors of plum, cherry, and chocolate. It pairs wonderfully with winter meals like roasted vegetables, braised beef, and creamy pastas.
Warming Dessert Wines
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Port
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Why: A fortified wine that’s rich and sweet with flavors of dried fruit, caramel, and spice. Port is perfect for after-dinner sipping, especially with chocolate desserts, cheeses, or nuts.
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Sherry (particularly Oloroso or PX)
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Why: Rich, nutty, and often slightly sweet, Oloroso Sherry (or Pedro Ximénez for an even sweeter version) is an excellent companion to winter desserts like fruitcake, nuts, or even spiced cakes.
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Madeira
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Why: A fortified wine with a unique balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s perfect for sipping by the fire and pairs well with nutty, spiced desserts like gingerbread or pecan pie. Madeira’s are quite amazing and we will do a full post on these alone soon!
White Wines (Winter Whites with Richness and Complexity)
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Chardonnay (especially oaked)
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- Why: Rich and full-bodied with buttery, oak-aged flavors that complement winter foods like roasted chicken, lobster, or creamy pasta dishes. Oaked Chardonnays from regions like Burgundy or California are excellent during the colder months.
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Viognier
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Why: A white wine that’s aromatic with flavors of stone fruit, honey, and flowers. It has enough body and spice to stand up to winter meals like roasted pork, creamy soups, and grilled seafood.
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Riesling (Spicy or Off-Dry)
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Why: A slightly off-dry or spicier Riesling has enough acidity and sweetness to balance the rich, savory flavors of winter dishes like spicy Asian food or sausages. It’s also lovely with spiced winter desserts like apple pie or gingerbread.
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Gewürztraminer
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Why: Aromatic and spicy, with flavors of lychee, ginger, and honey. It pairs well with winter dishes with bold flavors like curries, sausages, or spiced roasted meats.
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Other Fun Picks for Winter
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Sangiovese (great with Italian-style stews and pastas)
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Tempranillo (a great choice for tapas or grilled meats in colder weather)
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Tawny Port (an excellent winter aperitif with nuts and cheese)
Warm Wine Drinks
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Mulled Wine
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Why: A popular winter drink made by heating up red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel. It's a cozy, warming drink ideal for the holiday season or outdoor winter gatherings.
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Hot Toddy with Wine
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Why: A warm drink made with red wine, honey, lemon, and spices, perfect for battling the winter chill.
When selecting a winter wine, think about the food pairings you enjoy during the season—hearty stews, roasts, and rich casseroles often call for bolder wines, while lighter fare can still be complemented with winter whites. Ultimately, the best winter wine is one that feels like a cozy, comforting match for your winter experience!
And any of these wines are much complimented by a Big Wine Glass from www.bigwineglasses.com. Check the product page for specific recommendations of wines for each type of glass. Stay warm! Spring is coming soon 😊
