Fool Proof Pairing for the Festive Season

The theory is really quite simple; wine and food should be treated like partners, both embodying the same level of intensity and flavour. Essentially, food that’s rich in flavour requires a rich, lingering wine that won’t fade in comparison. In contrast, lighter meals will pair perfectly with delicate wines that won’t overwhelm the flavours on the plate.

So whether you’re turning up the heat with a classic Aussie BBQ, dusting off your fine china or keeping it low key with a family picnic, let us assist you with the perfect wine pairing guide so you can have yourself a merry little Christmas.

Sparkling with a Twist - Sparkling Shiraz is a worthy alternative to white on the festive table. Served chilled it will take pride of place alongside ham, turkey, seafood, and even the Christmas pud.

Try: Morris Sparkling Shiraz Durif NV.

Drink Pink - Let’s assume that the Christmas table will be adorned with fresh seafood. A crisp, dry Rosé is the perfect wine to enjoy alongside the delicate flavours. Nothing says Christmas in Australia quite like a baked leg of ham and a great Rosé has enough weight and bright fruit to match any Christmas ham.

Try: 2018 Brand’s Laira 2018 Old Station Rosé.

Sizzling Selections - Fire up the grill with a classic Aussie BBQ this Christmas. Grilled BBQ meats such as steak and lamb mean you’ll want to have a red wine on hand with big, rich fruit flavours and structure. South Australia’s premier regions are perfect to explore for wines with intensity and length. Barossa Shiraz and Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon are both perfect BBQ partners.

Try: 2015 Brand’s Laira Blockers Cabernet Sauvignon or 2017 The Bond Shiraz.

Christmas Classics - For roasted chicken or turkey dishes you need to choose a wine that will highlight the natural sweetness and tenderness of the meat. We recommend reaching for a crisp Chardonnay, especially with traditional sides and sauces. This also extends to baked salmon if accompanied with butter and cream, a little bit of oak will beautifully highlight the fish and balance the delicate flavours.

Try: 2018 Brand’s Laira Blockers Chardonnay.

A Vegetarian Christmas – Chargrilled veggies, nut roasts, mushroom risotto golden grilled haloumi skewers are all wonderful alternatives to meat. Serve with a beautiful big salad and a couple of bottles of chilled Rosé or Riesling for a meal fit for a (vegetarian) king or queen!

Try: 2018 Peter Lehmann Portrait Rosé or 2019 Peter Lehmann Hill & Valley Riesling

Perfect Picnic - Keeping it simple with a picnic by the shore? Shucked oysters and freshly peeled prawns go hand in hand with Riesling, especially when served with a touch of lemon, capers, butter sauce or Asian-inspired dressing. When it comes to food matching with Riesling, simplicity, delicacy and freshness are key.

Try - 2018 Brand’s Laira Old Station Riesling

Something Sweet – Who doesn’t love a Pavlova? With its crisp meringue, rich cream and summery flavours of mango, berries, cherries and a squeeze of passionfruit, it’s the ultimate festive dessert. Rose lends itself to the sweetness of the pudding without

Try: 2018 Peter Lehmann Portrait Rosé or 2018 Brand’s Laira 2018 Old Station Rosé

Sticky – It wouldn’t be Christmas without sipping on something sticky. Rutherglen Muscat pairs beautifully with the after dinner delights of chocolate, fruity desserts or strong cheeses. The iconic Morris Old Premium Rare Muscat has been awarded 100 points by highly acclaimed critic, James Halliday. What better reason is there to indulge in this world renowned Muscat than Christmas?

Try: Morris of Rutherglen Old Premium Rare Liqueur Muscat

No matter the spread, we are sure these tips will impress your guests! By pairing the plate with their plonk we guarantee you’ll be the host