JamieOliver.com

Hi there

Here are my wine recommendations for the menus that are on the Christmas microsite. It would be great to hear about your suggestions as well.

All the best

Paul

Christmas with a Twist menu
I don’t know about you, but Christmas without wine would be like taking all the decorations off the tree. The sparkle would all be gone. So why not spend a little time picking out something you can really look forward to on the big day.

Here are a few ideas for wines to match our ‘Christmas with a Twist’ menu.


Spicy parsnip soup
Soup can be a challenge, because it’s often overlooked in terms of wine. There are plenty of options to go with this lovely warm, winter dish. I’d start by looking at dry whites with a bit of body, depth and texture. Pinot Gris or Gewurztraminer would be great, especially those from Alsace in France or from New Zealand. Maybe give the dish a little lift with a Viognier from Australia or South America. For those who like to keep things more rustic, try a light red from Valpolicella or the Côtes du Rhône.


Roast turkey with spiced cranberry, bacon and walnut stuffing
Not only is roast turkey delicious, but also it will happily go with either red or white wine. It’s a great time to open one of your favourite chardonnays, be it from Burgundy or a New World alternative.
If you prefer red, look for something with intense, fruit flavour but also something that is soft and generous. Pinot Noir is a wonderful partner, in this case, or even a merlot from California or Chile. Try to choose a wine that is smooth and supple and nothing too heavy or tannic. If you’re looking for something different, however, the alternative that is a real star is sparkling Shiraz from Australia. And great with leftover turkey sandwiches the next day.


Celeriac gratin
If you like things fresh, green and grassy, Sauvignon Blanc is a terrific way to match this vegetarian dish. Look to Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, for a classic, elegant style or to South Africa and New Zealand for a more intense, fruit-driven example. Gewurztraminer is another white to consider for something more exotic and richer. Red lovers could seek out a lighter, softer Cabernet from the New World.

Pears in Amorone
This lighter alternative to Christmas pudding pairs beautifully with dessert wines like Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, Banyuls or a sweet Vouvray. For the adventurous, try it with the Vintage Port you had ready for your blue cheese.

Let me know what you think.
Do you have any other suggestions?
Which wines have worked for you in the past?
What do you look forward to drinking at Christmas time?