The right wine can turn Christmas lunch into something magical. In this guide, our expert shares the foolproof pairings that take the stress out of choosing what to pour.
Jason Bowyer is the Buying Director at ALDI Australia, with over 15 years of experience sourcing and curating wine portfolios around Australia and abroad. Known for his focus on delivering outstanding quality at accessible prices, he forges partnerships with producers who share his passion for flavour and innovation.
When it comes to the main event at Christmas, Jason says the golden rule is simple: start with lighter wines and gradually move to richer styles as the meal builds.
Below, Jason has curated his top wine pairing recommendations to complement every dish this Christmas Day.
The perfect wine for glazed Christmas ham
A glazed Christmas ham is sweet, salty and often smoky or honey‑glazed, so choosing a wine that cuts through the richness is key.
Crisp whites or a refreshing rosé work beautifully. A crisp white wine or refreshing rosé balances out the glaze and lifts the palate.
Try the A.C. Byrne & Co Margaret River Chardonnay (750 ml, $10.99) from ALDI for bright citrus and fleshy stone fruit notes, or the La Mule Provence Rosé (750 ml, $13.99) for a delicate, summer-fruity lift. Both bring a touch of vibrancy to the plate without overwhelming the dish.
What to pour with roast turkey and trimmings
Roast turkey, with its savoury stuffing, herbs and gravy, calls for something with a little more presence. This is where fuller-bodied whites or soft, medium reds come into their own.
Build gradually, don’t leap straight to the heaviest wine. A great choice here is Les Argelières Pinot Noir (750 ml, $11.99) from ALDI, which brings just enough body and elegance to stand up to the meal without overpowering it.
Light, fresh pairings for seafood feasts
Seafood has its own kind of elegance, think chilled prawns, briny oysters and whole roasted fish that taste like summer itself. Here, light and refreshing wines are the best choice. Clean, crisp whites with lively acidity highlight delicate textures and refresh the palate between bites.
Start light with something like ALDI’s Kaiora Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (750 ml, $9.99), which delivers vibrant passionfruit and gooseberry notes.
Whether you’re hosting a long, leisurely lunch or an alfresco Christmas feast, choosing the right wine can transform every dish. With ALDI’s Summer Wine range offering quality, character and incredible value, you’re spoiled for choice.
Explore the collection in-store and find the perfect pairings to make your festive table shine.
*ALDI liquor not available in Queensland and South Australia.
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What are your favourite wine and food pairings at Christmas? Leave us a comment below!
