A guide to wines that match your Christmas meat dishes

Simple suggestions and why they "work" with every meat

The Christmas table is not just about the food.
It's the smells, the company, the dishes that come in between and of course... the wine.

And if you're wondering "what wine should I open to match meat?", this guide is here to help you out, without difficult terms and rules.

Veal – Rich, juicy, festive

What wine goes well with:

• Full-bodied red wines
• Dry, with intensity and depth

Why it works:
Veal has a strong flavor and needs a wine that "stands alongside it" and doesn't get lost.

Simple options:

• Agiorgitiko
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Xinomavro

👉 Ideal for roast beef, roulade or premium cuts on the holiday table.

Pork – Sweet, aromatic and a holiday favorite

What wine goes well with:

• Medium-bodied reds
• Or white with character

Why it works:
Pork is often accompanied by sweet or aromatic notes (honey, orange, plums). The wine should "embrace" them.

Simple options:

• Merlot
• Syrah
• White Chardonnay

👉 Perfect combination for roast pork or stuffed roll.

Chicken – Light and versatile

What wine goes well with:

• White or pink
• Fresh and aromatic

Why it works:
Chicken doesn't need intensity but balance. Wine should complement, not cover.

Simple options:

• Sauvignon Blanc
• Moschofilero
• Dry rosé

👉 Ideal for baked chicken with potatoes or herbs.

Turkey – The Queen of Christmas

What wine goes well with:

• White with body
• Light reds

Why it works:
Turkey has a mild flavor but is often accompanied by rich stuffing. The wine should pair well with both.

Simple options:

• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir
• Rosé

👉 Safe choice for large family tables with lots of side dishes.

Lamb – Traditional and intense

What wine goes well with:

• Reds with character
• Spicy and filling

Why it works:
Lamb has a strong personality and needs a wine that complements it, not softens it.

Simple options:

• Xinomavro
• Syrah
• Cabernet Sauvignon

👉 Ideal for oven-baked lamb with potatoes and herbs.

Goat – Earthy and authentic

What wine goes well with:

• Reds with intensity
• Dry and rich

Why it works:
Goat has a more "wild" flavor and needs wine that supports it.

Simple options:

• Aged Agiorgitiko
• Xinomavro
• Blend of red varieties

👉 Perfect for traditional Christmas dishes.

You don't have to be an expert. You just need to choose with love, just like you cook for your people.