What’s better than a cosy Christmas movie marathon? Pairing it with the perfect wine and festive treats! Rory Craig from WineStation shares his expert advice on how to elevate your movie nights with brilliant wine and food combinations.
Whether you’re diving into classic favourites or feel-good comedies, here’s how to make your Christmas extra special with this Christmas wine and food pairings.
Champagne & National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Celebrate the hilarity of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation with a sophisticated glass of Champagne. Rory suggests pairing it with decadent snacks like duck pâté or foie gras to create a contrasting match to the film’s chaos. Grower Champagne, served in elegant glassware, provides a touch of class to the imbecility on screen.
Prosecco Mimosa & Love Actually
For the cringe-worthy charm of Love Actually, a Prosecco Mimosa is the perfect bubbly companion. This light, refreshing drink complements the film’s laughable moments and outdated quirks. It’s a playful way to kick off the holiday season, filled with fun and frivolity.
Grüner Veltliner & Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
The magical world of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory pairs wonderfully with a crisp Grüner Veltliner. Known for its refreshing spiciness and reappearing acidity, this Austrian white wine matches the whimsy of cola bottles, sherbet, and fruit-flavoured sweets.
Pinot Grigio & Elf
For wrapping presents with Elf, keep things simple and delightful with Pinot Grigio. This easy-drinking Italian wine, served in stemless glasses to avoid spills, mirrors the film’s light-hearted and uncomplicated charm. Swap in Home Alone for a similar pairing, alongside a packet of crisps for extra fun.
Orange Wine & Classic Christmas Snoozers
Enjoy the relaxing snooze-worthy classics like It’s a Wonderful Life or The Great Escape with an Orange wine. This unique wine, made by fermenting white grapes with their skins, is dense and flavourful, perfect for sipping during lazy afternoons. It pairs beautifully with light snacks or stands alone as a treat.
Beaujolais & Turkey Sandwiches with Spielberg Classics
Transform your leftover turkey and ham sandwich into a cinematic delight with a light red wine like Beaujolais Nouveau. Pair this with Spielberg classics such as E.T. or Indiana Jones for an afternoon of fun. For something bolder, try a young Rioja or Rhône wine as the day progresses.
Bordeaux & Late-Night Bond Films
Wind down with a complex Bordeaux or Barolo as you enjoy a late-night James Bond movie. Decant the wine for a fuller flavour and pair it with a cheese board for the ultimate indulgence. Alternatively, a Burgundian Pinot Noir offers evolving flavours to match the depth of these iconic films.
Wine Your Way: The Ultimate Rule
Rory’s final advice? Enjoy wine however you like it. Whether it’s Barolo with Love Actually or Chardonnay with James Bond, there are no strict rules. Christmas is about joy, relaxation, and indulgence.
So, grab your favourite wine, a good movie, and some festive treats, and let the holiday magic begin!
