The holidays come with two guarantees. One: someone’s going to ask you to bring wine. Two: you’re definitely not showing up empty-handed. If you’re stocking your bar cart, hosting the crew, or pulling up to the family potluck, consider this your go-to guide for pairing Love Cork Screw wines with all the festive flavors of the season.
Think of it as your shortcut to being the person everyone asks, “Wait, how did you know this would taste perfect together?” Let’s get into it.
Kick Off the Night: Sparkle, Chill, Sip
Holiday gatherings always start slow. People ease in, coats come off, and someone is already asking where the snacks are. This is your cue to set the mood with something chilled and approachable.
Try: “Good Times Good Friends” Pinot Grigio
Pairs with: Shrimp cocktail, soft cheeses, spinach dip, veggie platters
Why it works: This crisp white brightens up salty and creamy apps without overpowering anything. It’s the perfect “I’m just getting started” sip.
Try: “Head Over Heels” Riesling
Pairs with: Spicy appetizers, Asian-inspired bites, charcuterie, fruit-forward dishes
Why it works: Riesling loves a little heat and a little sweet. That touch of juicy sweetness helps balance anything spicy or tangy, and it keeps guests sipping long before dinner hits the table.
The Main Event: Comfort Food Meets Bold Flavor
Whether you’re serving turkey, ham, lasagna, or whatever bold dish the family insists is “tradition,” a solid red can take center stage right alongside the food.
Try: “We’re Movin’ On Up” Cabernet Sauvignon
Pairs with: Prime rib, turkey, roasted vegetables, herby stuffing, mushroom dishes
Why it works: A good Cabernet during the holidays is like a cozy blanket for your palate. Ours brings depth and structure, which means it stands up to rich flavors without getting lost.
Looking for something smoother and slightly sweeter to match the vibe of glazed ham or BBQ-style holiday dishes?
Try: “Hard Knock Life” Concord
Pairs with: Honey-baked ham, charcuterie boards, spicy wings, mac and cheese
Why it works: This fan-favorite brings juicy, nostalgic flavor with a holiday-friendly sweetness. If your playlist is 90s R&B and your Christmas dinner involves second helpings, this bottle belongs on the table
Dessert Pairings: The Grand Finale
Dessert is where most people reach for coffee, but trust us, a well-paired wine keeps the celebration going. This is your moment to shine with bottles that love sugar, spice, and everything nice.
With creamy or custard-style desserts:
Try: “Be The Light” Sauvignon Blanc
Pairs with: Cheesecake, crème brûlée, panna cotta, lemon custard, whipped cream desserts
Why it works: A chilled, crisp white cuts through richness like a pro and keeps even the creamiest desserts feeling light.
With fruit-forward desserts:
Try: “We Go High” Rosé
Pairs with: Strawberry shortcake, fruit tarts, lemon bars, sorbets
Why it works: This rosé brings bright, refreshing acidity that lifts fruity desserts instead of competing with them. It’s your “dessert but make it cute” pairing.
With ultra-sweet, melt-in-your-mouth desserts:
Try: “No More Drama” Moscato
Pairs with: Cheesecake, vanilla cake, sweet brunch-style desserts, sugar cookies
Why it works: Moscato is the dessert queen. Its juicy sweetness and floral notes play beautifully with light, creamy, or vanilla-forward treats. It smooths out sugary bites and adds a little sparkle to the finale.
Of course, you can never go wrong pairing your Cabernet Sauvignon with chocolate desserts. Dark chocolate and Cab are basically soulmates. The richness of chocolate softens the tannins, and the wine brings a little depth and drama to every bite. And for all of those holiday pies, break out another bottle of Concord. Apple pie, peach cobbler, berry anything… they all love a sweet red moment. The nostalgia of Concord fruit with baked sugar is holiday magic in a glass.
Tips to be the Host with the Most
A few quick moves to level up your holiday hosting (or at least look like you’ve got it together):
- Chill whites for at least two hours
- Let reds breathe for 15-20 minutes before serving
- Keep a backup bottle... or two
- Don't overthink it. Wine is about joy, connection, and good moments
And if anyone asks where the wine came from, feel free to say, “Oh this? Just my favorite woman-owned, Black-owned wine brand bringing the holiday magic.
Whether you’re shopping online, grabbing a bottle at your local retailer, or joining the Love Cork Screw Wine Club, we’ve got everything you need to make the holidays taste a little more delicious.
So go ahead. Pour, pair, sip, repeat. ’Tis the season to enjoy good food, good company, and even better wine.
