It may be cold and dreary outside, but what better way to keep the winter blues at bay than by rugging up and sipping on a glass of soul-warming wine? Here are some of our favourite winter wines that should help see through the chilly days ahead.
Full-bodied reds
Red wine and winter go together like bread and butter, and there’s nothing better to warm you up on a chilly day than a glass of full-bodied red (generously poured, naturally). A bold, hearty McLaren Vale, Heathcote or Barossa Valley shiraz should do the trick, or if you’re after something more delicate, a Margaret River Cabernet is lighter on the palate but still packs plenty of flavour.
Try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2016 Heathcote Estate Shiraz or 2016 Cape Mentelle Trinders Cabernet Merlot.
Pair with: Grain-fed 120D rib-eye steak with black garlic butter.
Fortified wines
When the mercury drops, a rich and luscious fortified wine makes a decadent end to a meal or the perfect way to spend an evening by the fireplace. Muscats and Topaques from Rutherglen pair beautifully with desserts, while a South Australian port is a rich treat all on its own.
Try at The Meat & Wine Co: All Saints Muscat NV or Penfolds Grandfather Port.
Pair with: Classic crème brulee with a coffee meringue biscuit.
Ambrosial whites
It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to white wine for the season. A crisp Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc is probably best left for the warmer months, but a well-rounded Chardonnay, Marsanne or Viognier have enough oomph and complexity to see you through the cooler days. Think fragrant oak-aged whites with hints of spice, apple, pear and stone fruits.
Try at The Meat & Wine Co: 2017 John Duval ‘Plexus’ Marsanne Viognier Roussane or 2017 Domaine William Fevre ‘Petit Chablis’ Chardonnay.
Pair with: Atlantic salmon tartare with citrus dressing, avocado, coriander and garlic crostini.
Champagne and sparkling whites
Whether it’s 40 degrees outside or a notch above freezing, we firmly believe that any time of year is the right time for a good glass of bubbly! Keep it low-key with a local sparkling white, or toast to a special occasion with a luxurious glass of French champagne.
Try at The Meat & Wine Co: Innocent Bystander Sparkling White or Moet Chandon Imperial.
Pair with: 30g traditional sturgeon caviar or oysters finished with lemon granita.
Ready to experience the ultimate food and wine pairing? Our expert staff can recommend the perfect drop to go with your meal, whether it’s for a casual dinner, a special occasion, or a naughty liquid dessert. Book a table at The Meat & Wine Co.
Did you enjoy this article? Now that you know what winter wines pairs with, why not check out some of our other wine-pairing guides for the ultimate evening feast with your friends and family:
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