WHAT IS “CHRISTMAS WINE”?

Here are the main categories people mean when they talk about a “Christmas wine”:

A classic holiday favorite — red wine heated with spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, orange peel, and sometimes a touch of sugar or brandy. It’s the quintessential Christmas wine drink in many European countries.

 2. Spiced or Dessert Wines

These are not necessarily holiday-specific bottlings, but their flavors feel seasonal:

• Port (Ruby or Tawny) — rich, sweet, and great with desserts or cheese.

• Sauternes / Late-harvest wines — sweet, golden, cozy.

• Madeira or Sherry (e.g., Pedro Ximénez) — warm, caramel, and dried fruit notes.

• Ice wine — intensely sweet, festive.

3. Winter Reds

Full-bodied reds that stand up to hearty holiday meals:

• Zinfandel

• Syrah / Shiraz

• Malbec

• Bordeaux or Rhône blends

Their higher alcohol and rich flavors help counter cold weather and rich foods.

Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and other bubbly are common at holiday celebrations, especially Christmas Eve or Christmas Day brunch.

Some wineries and brands produce special holiday bottlings with festive labels, seasonal spice infusions, or marketing as a “Christmas wine.” These vary by region and producer but aren’t a specific style — more a seasonal offering.