Scampo's Winter Wine Pairings

As the winter chill sets in, there's nothing quite like a glass of wine to warm you up and enhance the coziness of the season. Whether you're enjoying a hearty meal with loved ones or enjoying take out in the comfort of your home, choosing the right wine to match the season's flavors and temperatures can elevate the experience. Here’s Scampo’s guide to some of the best wines to enjoy during the colder months, along with tips on what to pair them with!

1. Full-Bodied Red Wines

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in bold, full-bodied red wines that can stand up to hearty meals and bring comfort to the colder evenings. Wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Zinfandel are excellent choices, known for their deep flavors and warm, robust profiles.

- Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic winter red, with its bold tannins and dark fruit flavors of black currant and plum. It pairs beautifully with rich, roasted meats like beef, lamb, or a hearty stew.

- Syrah/Shiraz, with its smoky, peppery notes, is perfect for winter comfort food such as barbecued meats, braised short ribs, or even a warming chili.

- Zinfandel, known for its spicy and fruity characteristics, is a great match for winter dishes like spicy barbecue, pizza, or even a tangy turkey chili.

2. Rich, Earthy Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a wonderfully versatile wine that works well in the winter, particularly with meals that have earthy, savory flavors. The wine’s medium body and red berry flavors combined with earthy undertones make it an excellent pairing with roasted vegetables, duck, and even mushroom-based dishes.

For a memorable pairing, try Pinot Noir with a roasted pork tenderloin or a creamy mushroom risotto. The wine’s acidity helps cut through the richness of these dishes, while its subtlety enhances the earthy flavors.

3. Spicy and Sweet Whites

While reds dominate the winter months, there’s still room for a well-selected white wine. Spicy whites like Gewürztraminer and Riesling are perfect for adding a little brightness to the winter palette. These wines offer aromatic qualities that make them ideal for pairing with seasonal dishes that feature sweetness and spice.

- Gewürztraminer offers a delightful combination of floral and spicy aromas, making it a great choice to pair with winter dishes such as roasted squash, apple and cinnamon dishes, or spicy Asian-inspired fare.

- Riesling, especially off-dry varieties, has a touch of sweetness and vibrant acidity, which works wonderfully with spicy foods, rich poultry dishes, or even creamy cheeses.

4. Bold Dessert Wines

Winter is also the season for indulgent desserts, and what better way to enjoy them than with a glass of dessert wine? Port and Sherry are excellent choices for pairing with rich chocolate cakes, nutty desserts, or cheeses.

- Port, especially Tawny Port, with its nutty, caramelized flavor profile, is perfect for pairing with a variety of holiday desserts, like pecan pie, chocolate tarts, or a selection of sharp cheeses.

- Sherry, with its complex flavors ranging from nutty to sweet, works well with roasted nuts, fruitcake, or even as a delightful contrast to rich blue cheeses.

5. Warm, Spiced Wines

Finally, winter is the season for mulled wines and spiced reds. A classic mulled wine, made from red wine, citrus, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, is a great way to celebrate the colder months. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, or even enjoyed alone to relax after a chilly day outdoors.

Contact Scampo for More Winter Wine Recommendations

The winter season invites us to indulge in rich, flavorful wines that complement hearty meals and cozy moments. Whether you’re enjoying a full-bodied red, a spicy white, or a rich dessert wine, there’s a wine to suit every winter occasion. Embrace the season’s flavors, and let wine be a warm companion to your winter festivities! For more information about wines to pair with the winter season, contact us at Scampo. Give us a call at 617-536-2100 or submit a contact form online.