PERFECT PAIRINGS
The holiday season is here and, for most, it’s a time of family gatherings and feasting with friends. Whether one finds themselves in the role of host or guest, pairing wines with holiday menus can be exciting, fun, and, contrary to common thought, budget-friendly. Choosing the perfect wines, either to pour with the meal or as a gift, should be stress-free…and that’s where The Merry Wine Market in downtown Black Mountain, NC shines. Come have a conversation with us, laugh a little, and let us guide you with our experience. Maybe you have lots of wine knowledge and maybe you don’t…the only dumb questions are the ones never asked!
Our Tried-and-True Holiday Suggestions:
With Turkey: We suggest a white wine with a fuller body and bright acidity such as Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. If a red is preferable, we say go lighter with Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Cru Beaujolais.
With Ham: Ham pairs well with fruity white wines such as Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Picpoul. Fruity reds also compliment ham…try Beaujolais Nouveau and Tempranillo.
With Standing Rib Roast, Steak, and Beef: These hearty meats call for fuller red wines like Carménère, Malbec, Chianti, and red blends such as Bordeaux, Meritage, and Claret.
With Seafood: We enjoy white sparkling wines, such as a Spanish Cava or Vouvray Brut. Also, Pinot Grigio and Muscadet (don’t confuse this with a sweet wine…Muscadet is the region in France and the wine is bone-dry, crisp, and delicious) are lighter whites that don’t overwhelm seafood’s flavor.
With Everything: Rosé is perfect to pair with holiday fare, especially a dry rosé from Provence. They can stand up to sauces and spice and blend beautifully with the sweeter notes of ham, cranberries, and sweet potatoes.
Our favorite holiday tip: Have a case of crowd-pleasing wine handy…we can individually wrap each bottle…and you’ll never be caught empty-handed when a friend pops by with a surprise gift.
Remember: We’re here to help. Don’t let the whirl and swirl of hosting overwhelm you. Come see us, make informed choices, and welcome your family and friends with joy and confidence.
The Merry Wine Market
108 W State Street Historic
Downtown Black Mountain
(828) 669-9050
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“We’d rather make a friend than a sale.” The MWM Family: Katherine, Scott, Katie, Deb, and Anita We also have a fun selection of host gifts and can build a custom gift basket to suit any occasion.
