Old World Whites for the Holidays
Details
Join us for a festive blind wine tasting celebrating medium- to full-bodied Old World white wines — the timeless classics of Europe that shine especially bright during the holiday season. Think Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Southern Rhône whites, Chablis, and other European gems. If it’s a white wine from the Old World and has a little weight, richness, or aromatic flair, it’s perfect for the lineup.
### 🌍 What Makes Old World Whites Special?
Old World white wines are known for their balance, structure, elegance, and sense of place. Unlike many richer New World whites, they often emphasize minerality, acidity, and subtle complexity over overt fruitiness. Depending on the grape and region, you might find:
- Riesling (Alsace, Germany): Lush stone fruit, honeyed notes, bright acidity — great with spiced dishes, ham, sausages, and creamy sides.
- Gewürztraminer (Alsace): Floral, aromatic, slightly spicy — perfect with richly seasoned foods, charcuterie, and strong cheeses.
- Pinot Blanc / Pinot Gris (Alsace, Italy): Medium-bodied, versatile pairing wines that complement roasted poultry, root vegetables, and savory pastries.
- Southern Rhône Whites (e.g., Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne blends): Fuller-bodied, textured, aromatic — excellent with roasted meats, herbs, and holiday spice profiles.
- Chablis (Burgundy): Crisp, mineral, elegant Chardonnay — ideal with seafood, lighter starters, creamy dishes, or salty snacks.
### 🎄 Your Assignment
Choose any medium- to heavy-bodied Old World white wine that you think pairs well with what you consider holiday food. The price point should be between $20 - 40 or so. Bring that wine wrapped or concealed in a brown paper wine bag for blind tasting.
Also bring a dish you personally associate with the holidays — sweet, savory, traditional, or totally unique — to share with the group. And please bring four wine glasses for tasting.
### 🍖 What’s on the Table?
Fred will prepare a large, slow-roasted/braised pork infused with holiday spices and herbs — rich, warming, and perfect for these wines. He’ll also have Prosecco to kick things off as everyone arrives, so feel free to bring a separate glass for this if you prefer.
Come sip, taste, compare, debate, and enjoy a festive night of Old World discovery.
See you on December 27!
(Registration opens on December 13.)