The holidays are a time to gather, celebrate, and indulge in the traditions that make each culture unique. One element that universally ties together festivities across the globe is wine. From warming mulled wines in Europe to bold reds shared around festive meals in South America, wine is at the heart of so many holiday customs. Let’s take a journey around the world, exploring how different cultures celebrate the season with their favorite wines—and discover how Wiens Cellars’ own collection can help you recreate these cherished traditions.
France: The Elegance of Bubbly
In France, holiday celebrations often revolve around Champagne. Known for its effervescence and celebratory nature, Champagne is a staple for toasts during Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinners. It’s often paired with oysters, foie gras, or delicate pastries.
At Wiens Cellars, our Blanc de Blancs offers a sparkling alternative to traditional Champagne. With notes of lemon zest and shortbread, it brings a crisp finish that’s perfect for starting any holiday celebration on an elegant note. Pair it with seafood appetizers or buttery shortbread cookies to channel the French holiday spirit.
Germany: Mulled Wine Warmth
Germany’s Christmas markets are renowned for their festive atmosphere, and no market is complete without a steaming mug of Glühwein (mulled wine). Made with red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and a touch of citrus, Glühwein is a comforting drink enjoyed during the chilly holiday season.
Recreate this cozy tradition with Wiens Cellars’ Amour Sangria red blend. Its blood orange essence, ripe red fruit, and zesty finish make it an excellent base for a homemade mulled wine. Simply simmer with a few spices, orange slices, and a touch of honey, and you’ll have a cup of warmth to rival any German Christmas market.
Italy: Feasting with Full-Bodied Reds
In Italy, the holidays are synonymous with family feasts, including La Vigilia (Christmas Eve dinner) and Natale (Christmas Day). Italians love to pair their multi-course meals with robust wines that can stand up to rich flavors.
For your Italian-inspired holiday feast, try Wiens Cellars’ 2021 Reflection. This bold red blend offers flavors of ripe cranberry, Tuscan herbs, and cinnamon stick, making it the perfect companion to roasted meats or hearty pasta dishes like lasagna. Its warmth and complexity embody the festive spirit of an Italian holiday table.
Argentina: Summer Wines for Festive BBQs
While much of the world associates the holidays with cold weather, Argentina celebrates during the summer months. Families gather for asados (barbecues) featuring grilled meats, fresh salads, and outdoor festivities. The go-to wine for these gatherings is often Malbec, prized for its versatility and bold flavors.
Wiens Cellars’ 2019 Malbec pays homage to this Argentinian tradition. With notes of blackberry, fresh thyme, and cocoa nibs, this wine complements grilled steaks, chimichurri, or roasted vegetables. Bring a touch of Argentina to your holiday celebration with this vibrant pairing.
Australia: A Festive Outdoor Celebration
In Australia, Christmas falls during the height of summer, making outdoor celebrations and chilled wines the norm. Australians love pairing their seafood feasts with refreshing whites and rosés, often enjoyed by the beach or in the backyard.
Wiens Cellars’ 2023 Rosé of Malbec is a fantastic choice for recreating this sunny holiday vibe. Its pink grapefruit, golden watermelon, and mineral notes make it a refreshing accompaniment to grilled prawns, fresh oysters, or festive salads.
South Africa: A Braai to Remember
In South Africa, the holidays are all about the braai (barbecue). Similar to Argentina, these gatherings feature grilled meats and plenty of fresh, seasonal produce. A rich, smoky red wine is the go-to choice for complementing the bold flavors of the grill.
Wiens Cellars’ 2021 Dualis is the ideal pairing for this tradition. Its ripe blueberry, black pepper, and round tannins make it a bold match for grilled lamb chops or spicy sausages, bringing a taste of South Africa to your holiday celebration.
Portugal: Toasting with Port
In Portugal, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without Port wine. This fortified wine is often served as a dessert accompaniment or as a warming drink by the fire. It pairs beautifully with holiday desserts like bolo rei (king cake) or rich chocolate treats.
Wiens Cellars’ Ruby Port captures the spirit of this Portuguese tradition. With flavors of caramel and chocolate-covered cherries, it’s the ideal companion to holiday desserts or a perfect nightcap for cozy winter evenings.
United States: A Melting Pot of Traditions
In the United States, holiday celebrations are as diverse as its population, blending customs from around the world. From turkey dinners to festive cocktail parties, wine takes on many roles. Americans embrace everything from sparkling wines for toasts to robust reds for hearty meals.
Wiens Cellars’ 2023 Merrytage Magnum is a show-stopper for any U.S. holiday gathering. With cherry cola, spiced cranberry, and gingerbread notes, this 1.5L bottle is perfect for sharing with a crowd. It’s versatile enough to pair with turkey, ham, or even your favorite holiday charcuterie board.
Cheers to the World
No matter where you are in the world, wine plays a central role in bringing people together during the holidays. From the warmth of Glühwein in Germany to the crisp whites of Australia, these traditions showcase the universal joy of sharing wine with loved ones.
At Wiens Cellars, we’re proud to offer a diverse collection of wines that can transport you to these global celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a French-inspired soirée or an American-style Thanksgiving feast, our wines are crafted to elevate every moment.
Discover the World Through Wine
Explore our collection of holiday-ready wines and bring the traditions of the world to your table. From the robust reds of Italy to the festive bubbles of France, Wiens Cellars has the perfect bottle for every celebration.
Shop Our Holiday Collection Now and start a new tradition with us. Cheers!