Easter is a great holiday for foodies and wine lovers. From traditional dishes to your favorite sides and desserts, Easter meals offer a unique opportunity to pair different types of foods with a range of wines. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or hosting a festive party for friends, a good wine pairing will make the occasion all that more enjoyable. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to taste-test all the different varieties. So stop in to see us at your nearest New Hampshire Liquor & Wine Outlet, and we’ll point you to some of our favorites. You will undoubtedly be known as the hostess (or host) with the most-est.
Main Dishes
One of the most common dishes served at Easter meals is lamb. Whether roasted, braised, or grilled, lamb pairs well with a full-bodied red wine such as cabernet sauvignon or syrah. Both of these wines have strong tannins that complement the savory flavors of the dish. However, opt for a lighter red, such as pinot noir, for a more floral and fruit-forward pairing.
Next up on our list of traditional Easter foods is ham. The sweetness of ham pairs well with a light white wine such as riesling or chenin blanc to bring out the flavors. A chardonnay or sauvignon blanc can be served for a more robust pairing. Lastly, try a light-bodied red such as gamay or Beaujolais for a unique pairing.
If you’re more of a chicken fan, the flavors of a roasted chicken are enhanced when paired with a light-bodied, unoaked chardonnay or pinot noir for a smooth yet complex flavor.
Fish is a flavorful alternative to heavy meat dishes and pairs well with light-bodied whites like sauvignon blanc or chardonnay. For a more flavorful option, try pairing fish with an oaked chardonnay. The oak adds a creamy, buttery flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
Sides and Desserts
Of course, we can’t forget the sides since they can make or break a meal. Opt for a crisp white such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio for a light and refreshing pairing with your favorite Easter veggies or salads. If you’re looking for something a bit more robust with roasted vegetables, a medium-bodied white such as chardonnay or Viognier can be served.
For the most versatile side, potatoes, try a dry rosé wine for a unique pairing with a cold potato dish, like a potato salad, or a red such as malbec, with a warm, savory potato dish.
Every meal is complete with dessert, especially on the holiday known for candy. A sweet white such as moscato or riesling is an excellent option if you’re serving light, fruity desserts such as angel food cake or fruit tarts. Heavier desserts like cakes, pies, cookies, or those extra chocolate bunnies you probably have lying around pair nicely with a sweet dessert red like port to add a rich, velvety flavor.
Easter is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and a delicious meal with the right glass (or more, who’s counting) of wine is the perfect way to do it. With these pairings, you’ll be sure to please everyone at your table.
Cheers to a happy, healthy, wine-enhanced holiday!
