Like almost everything else in 2020, the holidays this year are different. Without large family gatherings, festivities with friends groups and many of the traditional events of the season, we are all looking for a way to make this year’s holiday season sparkle. May we propose a little toast? (Hear us out!) At many family tables, the holiday menus do not vary as someone insists on Aunt Linda’s sweet potato casserole, cousin Stephanie’s brussels sprouts gratin and their childhood favorite, jiggly cranberry sauce from a jar. Perhaps a silver lining of this season, as we gather with smaller groups or stay home for a household-only meal, is the option to try something new and creative you saw in Bon Appetit and to skip those only taking up valuable space on plates that could be rather filled with extra freshly baked bread or mashed potatoes.
Always wanted to roast a leg of lamb instead? Green beans sautéed rather than covered in cream of mushroom soup? Rolls and cornbread (or both!)? Why not just throw everything into a pot pie? Order delivery Indian or pizza or Peking duck instead of cooking? Well, this is the year to try.
The four core Dough wines can pair beautifully with these experiments, from home cooked meals to take out!
Salad has always been a controversial item on many holiday tables. Is it necessary? Is it just a distraction from the true meal? That is a personal and family decision, but if you are looking for something to pair with a salad or oysters to start, look no further than the 2019 Sauvignon Blanc (North Coast, CA). The acid and brine will pair well with this wine’s pizzaz. Looking to try something really different? Go hand-held with sustainably-caught fish tacos!
Serving a cheese board while you wait for the holiday roast to cook? Or opting for local salmon instead? The 2018 Chardonnay (Sonoma & Monterey Counties) is a great pairing, as well as versatile enough to serve with a full plate of the traditional usual suspects. Speaking of cheese, are you not planning on cooking a big meal? But perhaps still needing comfort food? Try this crisp and creamy wine with mac and cheese.
If you are looking for a wine that will pair with almost everything on your plate, the 2019 Pinot Noir (Oregon) will work with ham, mashed potatoes and cornbread. Classic Oregon tart cherry and red fruit are balanced with a weight and richness on the palate. For those looking to try something new this year: Peking Duck with pancakes is a fun dish that captures the spirit of the holiday in a non-traditional way and a great way to support local Chinese restaurants.
Adding mushrooms to your dressing? Grilling your main dish? Looking for a wine to sip by the fire post dinner? Look no further than the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (North Coast, CA). Smooth, yet expressive enough to pair with all the traditional sides, this wine will also shine with an untraditional steak or burger on your holiday table.
Whatever your holiday plans, we hope you can toast to friends, family and find joy, even in 2020. Look for
these delicious, food friendly wines in your local wine shops, retailers, and restaurants.