A changing of the seasons means a change in tastes and preferences, most notably a shift over to winter wines. Just as we crave hearty soups and comfort foods during the colder months, our choice of wines can also undergo a delightful transformation. In today’s blog, we will explore the enchanting world of winter wine and recommend some classic options to get through the colder months.
Red Winter Wines
Winter calls for wines with depth and complexity, and rich reds fit the bill perfectly. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah are excellent choices to accompany hearty winter dishes. Their bold flavors and robust tannins create a comforting experience, like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket.
Cozying Up with Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon, often hailed as the king of red wines, takes center stage during winter. Its full-bodied nature and dark fruit flavors make it an ideal companion for cold evenings. Pair a velvety Cabernet Sauvignon with a succulent beef stew or a slow-cooked pot roast. The interplay of the wine’s tannins and the richness of the dish will leave your taste buds dancing in delight.
Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Aromas of ripe black currant, smoke and saddle. Flavors of dark cherry and ripe plum with a hint of vanilla and cocoa. A firm and approachable structure with a balanced and long finish.
Aromas of ripe blackberries, red currants, and dried herbs. This wine is full-bodied with flavors of baking spice and plush ripe fruit with a long, fine grained tannin finish.
Embracing Elegance with Merlot
For those seeking a slightly softer touch, Merlot offers a perfect balance of elegance and warmth. Its plummy and velvety character pairs wonderfully with dishes like roasted duck or lamb. Merlot’s versatility also makes it an excellent choice for sipping by the fireplace or sharing with friends during a winter gathering.
Beautifully lush and expressive, this alluring Merlot draws you in with aromas of black currant, black cherry, boysenberry and sweet baking spices. On the palate, it is plush and polished, with silky tannins carrying the luxurious dark berry, creamy mocha and bittersweet chocolate flavors to a long, supple finish.
Perimeter wines reflect bold flavors and bright fruit perfect for food pairing and everyday entertaining. This Merlot leads with cherry and vanilla and is spiced lightly with clove and lingers with strawberry on the finish.
Spice it Up with Syrah
Syrah, known for its spicy and peppery notes, brings a touch of warmth to winter evenings. Originating from regions like the Rhône Valley or Australia’s Shiraz, this wine complements bold flavors and spices. Enjoy a glass of Syrah with a hearty bowl of chili or grilled sausages to elevate your winter dining experience.
This full-bodied but polished wine offers black-raisin and dark chocolate aromas and ripe blackberry and blueberry flavors on a smooth texture framed by abundant but fine-grained tannins. It’s straightforward and delicious, showing off all those great fruit flavors.
A classic with deep purple hues and rich aromas of plum, violets, black cherry, vanilla, oak and blackberry. Flavors of blackberry jam, black cherry, plum, white pepper and vanilla. In a nod to its Rhône heritage, this Syrah has a slightly “meaty” quality along with the classic floral notes and a dry structured finish.
White Winter Wines
While red wines often steal the spotlight in winter, don’t underestimate the charm of certain white wines that can beautifully complement the season. Chardonnay and Viognier, with their fuller bodies and nuanced flavors, can be delightful choices.
Buttery Bliss with Chardonnay
Chardonnay, especially those aged in oak barrels, brings a buttery richness that can be incredibly satisfying on a cold evening. Paired with creamy pasta dishes or roasted chicken, a well-balanced Chardonnay can elevate your winter comfort food experience.
With a bright nose of pear and lemon, this Chardonnay highlights fruit-forward flavors of honeysuckle and apple. The French Oak and partial malolactic fermentation add a delightfully creamy combination of toasted almond and creme brulee. The result is a bright, fruit-forward wine with a long enjoyable finish.
This Chardonnay is a lovely representation of Chardonnay from the Santa Lucia Highlands. It opens with notes of honeysuckle and pear that develop into flavors of mandarin orange, key lime, honey and kettle corn. The wine is beautifully balanced with delightful acidity, mineral accents and a long, rich finish.
Fragrant Delights of Viognier
Viognier, with its aromatic and floral notes, offers a unique alternative for winter sipping. This white wine pairs exceptionally well with dishes featuring aromatic herbs and spices. Consider enjoying Viognier with a Thai curry or a fragrant seafood stew to embrace the winter season with a burst of flavor.
Sparkling Surprises
Winter celebrations call for a touch of effervescence, and sparkling wines are not reserved for warmer months alone. Champagne, Prosecco, or sparkling wines from various regions can add a festive flair to your winter gatherings. Toast to the season with a glass of bubbly and let the tiny bubbles dance on your palate.
La Marca Prosecco Sparkling Wine is crisp and refreshing with a golden straw color and lively bubbles. This luxurious Prosecco wine features aromas of fresh citrus, honey and white flowers, with fresh, clean flavors of ripe lemon, green apple and grapefruit. Lively and versatile, La Marca sparkling wine is perfect on its own, in a bubbly cocktail or in a mimosa.
Perelada “Stars” Brut Cava Rose
This is a cava that invigorates the senses with its fruity essence, then unfolds scents of freshly picked strawberries and cherries, complemented by a subtle floral hint. On the palate, its youthfulness is affirmed with delicate effervescence that accentuates its vivacity. A cava that is both crisp and enduring, delightfully fruity, and exceedingly pleasing to the taste.
Dessert Winter Wines
No winter wine guide is complete without mentioning dessert wines. These sweet elixirs are perfect for rounding off a winter meal on a high note. Port, late harvest Riesling, and ice wine are popular choices that can turn a cold night into a sweet celebration.
Savoring the Richness of Port
Port, a fortified wine from Portugal, is a winter classic. Its rich, sweet, and velvety texture makes it an excellent companion to desserts like chocolate fondue or a decadent cheesecake. The warming sensation of port is like a comforting hug, making it an ideal nightcap for winter evenings.
Taylor Port is a moderately sweet, ruby red wine with a rich, fruity taste. Iconic among port wines, its smooth finish makes it perfect for evening sipping and a great companion for your favorite dessert. Moderately sweet, ruby red port—perfect for evening sipping.
Intense ruby red color, brilliant and clean. Rich red fruit aromas with a touch of age create an elegant reflection of powerful flavors, the fruit and fire characteristic of young classic Porto balanced with the finesse of age.
Late Harvest Riesling: A Sweet Symphony
Late harvest Riesling, with its honeyed sweetness and vibrant acidity, is a delightful choice for those who prefer a lighter dessert wine. Pair it with apple pie or a fruit tart to create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
Offering an apricot & tangerine nose, this palate cleanser is layered with bright pear fruit flavors on the palate punctuated with a crisp acidity for a refreshing, lingering finish!
This dry willamette valley riesling is a beautiful representation of the variety with thirst-quenching acidity and notes of mixed citrus green apple and honeysuckle. The finish shows hints of orange blossom and lemon pie with just a hint of minerality.
Whether you prefer the bold embrace of a Cabernet Sauvignon, the elegance of a Chardonnay, or the sweet notes of a late harvest Riesling, there’s a winter wine to suit every palate. So, light the fireplace, gather your loved ones, and embark on a vinous journey that will warm your soul during the coldest season of the year. Cheers to the magic of winter wines!
