Christmas Wine

Christmas wines can be either common or specialty wines—usually fruity or spicy—and are served throughout the Christmas and holiday season season.

Most European cultures have own versions of spiced wine served warm for the winter. Mulled wine has become a Christmas favorite in the US as well. The process is similar to making spiced cider and usually involves heating red wine with ingredients like cloves, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, juice, honey or sugar. Scandinavian mulled wines may include raisins and almonds.

Syrah (sometimes called Shiraz depending on the region) can be an effective pairing with Christmas dinner. It's full body and spicy, fruity flavors may compliment Christmas cuisine more effectively than Champagne.