As the days grow shorter and the temperatures dip, there’s nothing quite like settling into a cozy space with a glass of wine in hand. Winter calls for something special—a wine that complements the season’s flavors, provides warmth, and enhances the experience of rich comfort foods. At Latah Creek, we’ve carefully crafted a selection of wines perfect for the colder months, and we’re here to share our favorite winter wine pairings to warm you up all season long!

1. Bold and Beautiful: Cabernet Sauvignon

When the weather outside is frightful, there’s something undeniably delightful about a glass of bold, full-bodied red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect choice for cold winter evenings. With its deep, rich flavors of dark fruit like black currant and blackberry, and subtle hints of oak and spice, this wine offers the warmth and depth that’s ideal for pairing with hearty dishes.

Pair With:

• Beef Stew or Braised Short Ribs: The robust tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon stand up beautifully to the richness of slow-cooked meats. A hearty beef stew or tender braised short ribs with earthy vegetables will make this pairing even more indulgent.
• Grilled Steak with Chimichurri: If you’re in the mood for something more casual, a perfectly grilled steak with a zesty chimichurri sauce complements the savory notes of the wine.

The tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon help to cleanse the palate between bites, making it the perfect pairing for rich and fatty dishes.

2. Spice and Everything Nice: Zinfandel

Zinfandel is a lively, spicy red wine that brings a bit of warmth to winter’s chill. Known for its bold flavors of black cherry, pepper, and often a touch of smoky oak, Zinfandel is a great wine for pairing with spiced dishes that make winter dining a bit more exciting.

Pair With:

• BBQ Ribs: The smoky, tangy flavor of slow-cooked BBQ ribs pairs wonderfully with the peppery and berry-driven flavors of Zinfandel. Whether you go for a sweet and spicy glaze or a classic tangy barbecue sauce, this wine’s bold profile will elevate the experience.
• Moroccan Lamb Tagine: If you’re in the mood for something adventurous, a fragrant Moroccan lamb tagine with spices like cinnamon, cumin, and ginger pairs perfectly with the zesty, spicy character of Zinfandel. The combination of flavors will take your taste buds on a delicious journey.

Zinfandel’s versatility also makes it a great choice for diverse comfort foods, especially dishes with a little heat or spice.

3. A Sweet Escape: Riesling

While reds dominate winter, a well-chosen white can bring a refreshing twist to your wine rotation. A semi-sweet Riesling—especially one with a balanced acidity and a touch of honeyed sweetness—makes a perfect match for the colder months. Riesling features notes of ripe peach, apricot, and a hint of citrus zest that balance beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes.

Pair With:

• Spicy Asian Cuisine: A great go-to wine for Asian-inspired dishes like Thai curry or Chinese five-spice pork, Riesling’s sweetness acts as a counterbalance to heat and spice, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables: A classic pairing of roasted chicken with caramelized root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots complements Riesling’s fresh fruit notes while its slight sweetness enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Riesling’s ability to balance sweetness with acidity makes it ideal for those looking to add a bit of brightness and refreshment to their winter meals.

4. Cozy and Comforting: Merlot

Merlot’s smooth, velvety texture and approachable fruit-forward profile make it a winter favorite. The wine is known for its flavors of plum, cherry, and hints of chocolate, creating a comforting, rounded experience that’s perfect for cozy nights by the fire.

Pair With:

• Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of a creamy mushroom risotto with Parmesan cheese meld perfectly with the soft, fruity structure of Merlot. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that pairs well with this wine’s subtle complexity.
• Mac and Cheese with Bacon: For a more indulgent winter meal, nothing beats the comfort of rich mac and cheese with crispy bacon bits. Merlot’s smoothness balances the richness of the cheese while adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite.

Merlot’s versatility also makes it ideal for anything from pizza to pasta, offering a great option for an easy, laid-back winter dinner.

5. A Toast to Tradition: Sparkling Wine

While sparkling wine may seem like a celebratory drink reserved for special occasions, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be enjoyed throughout the winter months. Sparkling wines, especially those made from Chardonnay, offer refreshing acidity and bright fruit notes that pair beautifully with winter meals, adding a bit of festivity to even the most ordinary evening.

Pair With:

• Fried Foods: The acidity and effervescence in sparkling wine cut through the richness of fried foods like tempura, fried chicken, or crispy Brussels sprouts. The bubbles cleanse the palate, making each bite feel just as fresh as the first.
• Oysters or Shellfish: A classic pairing that works beautifully in winter as well—sparkling wine with oysters, shrimp, or lobster tail. The freshness and lightness of the wine perfectly complement the briny, delicate flavors of the seafood.

A glass of sparkling wine is perfect for those who want to brighten their winter dining and add a touch of elegance to their table.

6. Rich and Bold: Syrah

Syrah is known for its intense flavors of blackberry, plum, and black pepper, along with a savory, smoky finish that makes it an ideal red for the colder months. The wine’s full body and structure provide a satisfying experience when paired with rich, flavorful dishes.

Pair With:

• Grilled Sausages with Mustard: The spiciness of the Syrah pairs perfectly with the smokiness of grilled sausages and the tang of mustard. The wine’s full-bodied nature complements the richness of the meat, making each bite more satisfying.
• Beef Wellington: For an elegant winter dinner, pair Syrah with Beef Wellington, which is rich and flavorful, with a buttery, flaky crust. The wine’s depth of flavor and peppery notes work in harmony with the savory beef and mushroom duxelles.

Syrah is a wine that can stand up to the boldest of flavors, making it ideal for winter feasts.

As winter settles in and the chill takes hold, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by enjoying the warmth and complexity of a great bottle of wine. From the bold, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon to the refreshing effervescence of sparkling wine, there are endless possibilities for wine pairings that will elevate your winter meals.

At Latah Creek, we are passionate about creating wines that not only enhance your dining experience but also bring people together during the colder months. Whether you’re curling up with a book, hosting a dinner party, or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, there’s a perfect wine pairing waiting for you.

So, pour a glass, savor the flavors, and embrace the magic of winter with wines that make the season even more memorable. 

Cheers, 

Natalie