Enjoying Wine in Winter
Cold winds outside the window. Slowly enjoying wine in a warm room——.
Winter might be when wine shines brightest.
In this article, we explore the world of wine that can only be enjoyed in winter.
Choosing the Perfect Winter Wine
Characteristics of Winter Wines
The following characteristics suit cold seasons:
| Feature | Reason |
|---|---|
| Full-bodied | Warming satisfaction |
| Higher alcohol | Gentle warmth |
| Aged character | Complex, deep flavors |
| Tannic | Pairs with winter dishes |
Recommended Winter Varieties
Red Wines
| Variety | Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Bordeaux, Napa | Powerful, complex |
| Syrah/Shiraz | Rhône, Barossa | Spicy, warming |
| Nebbiolo | Piedmont | Aged depth |
| Malbec | Mendoza | Concentrated, rich |
White Wines
| Variety | Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Oaked Chardonnay | Burgundy | Buttery richness |
| Viognier | Rhône | Apricot warmth |
The Magic of Mulled Wine
Glühwein (German Style)
Glühwein is essential at German Christmas markets. It's easy to make at home.
Basic Recipe
Ingredients (serves 2)
- Red wine: 500ml (inexpensive is fine)
- Orange: 1 (sliced)
- Cinnamon sticks: 2
- Cloves: 4-5
- Star anise: 1
- Sugar or honey: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Add wine and spices to a pot
- Heat on low, don't let it boil (target 60-70°C)
- Add sugar and stir until dissolved
- Warm for about 10 minutes to release aromas
- Strain and pour into cups
Tip Boiling evaporates the alcohol. A thermometer helps.
Vin Chaud (French Style)
French Vin Chaud has a simpler taste.
Key Differences
- Less spice than Glühwein
- Sometimes uses lemon
- Emphasizes wine's own flavor
Winter Food and Wine Pairings
Stews × Red Wine
Winter means stews. Wine pairing is exceptional.
| Dish | Recommended Wine |
|---|---|
| Beef stew | Bordeaux red, Côtes du Rhône |
| Boeuf Bourguignon | Bourgogne Rouge |
| Lamb stew | Châteauneuf-du-Pape |
| Braised pork | Pinotage, Merlot |
Hot Pot × Wine
Japanese winter hot pots also pair well with wine.
| Hot Pot Type | Recommended Wine |
|---|---|
| Sukiyaki | Burgundy Pinot Noir |
| Shabu-shabu (beef) | Beaujolais Cru |
| Mizutaki | Alsace Riesling |
| Kimchi nabe | Zinfandel, GSM |
| Motsunabe | Rosé, light red |
Fireside Wine Evenings
Creating a Winter Wine Atmosphere
Suggestions for enjoying wine in warm interiors.
Lighting
- Light candles
- Create a warm space with indirect lighting
- Not too dark to appreciate wine's color
Music
- Jazz, classical
- Fireplace sounds (ambient)
- Quiet acoustic
Temperature
- Room temperature 20-22°C is ideal
- Be careful wine doesn't warm too much
Winter Dessert Wines
A Sweet Conclusion
Dessert wines are perfect for ending winter nights.
| Wine | Characteristics | Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Sauternes | Honey, apricot | Foie gras, blue cheese |
| Port Wine | Chocolate, berry | Chocolate, nuts |
| Vin Santo | Raisin, fig | Biscotti |
| Ice Wine | Concentrated sweetness | Fruit tart |
Winter-Only Pleasure Ice wine is made from frozen grapes—truly a winter gift.
Winter Wine Storage
Too Cold Is Also Bad
Rooms can get too cold in winter.
| Temperature | Effect |
|---|---|
| Below 5°C | Tartrate crystallization, flavor change |
| 13-15°C | Ideal storage temperature |
| Above 20°C | Premature aging |
Keep Away from Heaters
- Don't place near stoves
- Window areas have temperature swings
- Avoid heated floors
Winter Pairing Recommendations
Christmas Dinner
| Dish | Wine |
|---|---|
| Roast chicken | Chardonnay, Beaujolais Nouveau |
| Roast beef | Bordeaux red, Barolo |
| Turkey | Pinot Noir |
| Cheese platter | Port, Sauternes |
| Bûche de Noël | Sparkling, Moscato |
New Year's
| Occasion | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Countdown | Champagne |
| Osechi | Rosé Champagne, Koshu |
| Ozoni | Alsace Pinot Blanc |
Winter Wine Selection Tips
Five Key Points
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Go fuller | Heavier than summer |
| Choose aged | Complexity suits winter nights |
| Enjoy sweet | Dessert wine season |
| Mind temperature | Reds slightly warmer (18°C) |
| Pair with food | Stews, hot pots |
Summary: The Magic of Winter Wine
Winter wine has special magic.
| Enjoyment | Appeal |
|---|---|
| Mulled wine | Warms from within |
| With stews | Wine enhances food |
| Warm room | Slowly savor aromas |
| Dessert wine | Sweet night's end |
The cold season allows wine to give deeper pleasure.
Tonight, why not enjoy a glass of wine on a winter evening?
At our establishment, we've selected wines perfect for winter. Enjoy a glass that colors winter nights in our warm interior.