Christmas dinner is the crowning glory of the festive season, a feast that calls for wines worthy of the occasion. Whether you are serving the traditional turkey, branching out with beef or lamb, or opting for elegant alternatives like duck, goose, or fish, the right bottle elevates every bite.
This year, McCambridge’s of Galway has highlighted a selection of exceptional wines, each perfectly suited to the flavours of an Irish Christmas table. Paired with additional expert recommendations, here is your guide to choosing the perfect wine for every festive dish.
Roast Turkey
A classic Christmas turkey dinner, with its savoury stuffing, rich gravy, and buttery potatoes, pairs beautifully with a generous, rounded Chardonnay.
Featured pick: Ménage à Trois Gold Chardonnay, California
This decadent Californian Chardonnay is indulgent and smooth, with layers of ripe tropical fruit, French vanilla, and sweet spice. Its buttery finish works in harmony with roast turkey and all the trimmings, adding lushness without overpowering the delicate meat.
Other good matches include:
A lightly oaked Burgundy
Viognier, for stone-fruit perfume and richness
Roast Beef
Beef calls for a wine with structure, depth, and the kind of tannins that can stand up to hearty flavours.
Featured pick: Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Crianza, Rioja
This Rioja brings an intense bouquet of blackberries, mineral notes, spice, and well-integrated tannins. Its luscious toasted finish and superb balance complement roast beef, Yorkshire puddings, and horseradish beautifully.
Also excellent:
Cabernet Sauvignon
Malbec from Argentina
Lamb
Irish lamb is rich, savoury, and slightly sweet, making Rioja one of its most reliable partners.
Featured pick: Excellens Crianza, ideal with Connemara lamb
Its blend of dark berries, spice, and silky tannins enhances the meat’s natural sweetness.
Also recommended:
Syrah/Shiraz
Chianti Classico
Party wines
Festive gatherings call for wines that are crowd-pleasing, versatile, and refreshing.
The Nau Mai Sauvignon Blanc fits perfectly, offering zesty brightness and tropical fruit flavours.
For reds, consider:
Merlot for softness
Garnacha for a juicy, festive feel
Sparkling options such as Prosecco or Cava also keep celebrations lively.
Dessert wines
Christmas desserts deserve something special, whether you are serving pudding, trifle, or a cheeseboard.
Top choices:
Sauternes, rich with honey and apricot.
Port, a must for Christmas cake or cheese.
Tokaji, sweet yet vibrant.
Moscato d’Asti, lightly sparkling and ideal for lighter sweets.
Where to find these wines
McCambridge’s on Shop Street stocks a curated selection of exceptional wines, including the highlighted bottles:
Ménage à Trois Gold Chardonnay
Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Crianza
Nau Mai Sauvignon Blanc
With local and national delivery, it has never been easier to bring high-quality, expertly chosen wines to your Christmas table.
Whether you are hosting a feast for twelve or preparing an intimate dinner at home, the right wine brings warmth, luxury, and a touch of magic to the Christmas meal. Raise a glass, savour every sip, and enjoy a beautifully paired festive feast.
