Easter Wines
However you celebrate your Easter weekend, you’re likely to enjoy at least one of the following traditional treats this year. And if you’re planning on cracking open a nice bottle of vino, I’ve got the perfect pairings to ensure your celebration is a special one.
1. Lamb.
The go-to for most Easter dinner get-togethers. Depending on the cut and how you decide to cook it can definitely influence the style of wine you should choose. For tender, pink cuts I recommend a fruity, Welsh red with juicy tannins like the Llaethliw Rondo, 2019 or the Vale Vineyard Cabernet Noir blend.
A classic roast Welsh lamb on the other hand is just asking for something more full-bodied. The Novas Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère blend has gorgeously ripe dark fruit, warming vanilla and chocolate notes and a touch of green pepper. Perfect with any joint stuffed with garlic and thyme. Of course if you don’t fancy a red, a bold rosé like the Mas de Longchamp Rosé, 2022 would also do the trick.
2. Hot Cross Buns.
This traditional spiced bun is both sweet, spicy and oh, so satisfying. If you’re looking to push satisfaction to the next level, try with the Pazo de Mirasoles Albariño, 2022. The off-dry white bursting with notes of peach, apricot and lime perfectly compliments the sweetness, spice and citrus in a classic hot cross bun.
3. Chocolate.
Whether in egg, bunny or cake format, it’s likely that you’ll tuck into some chocolate at some point. So make the most of the indulgence and add an extra layer of yum by pairing with a glass of wine. I love a glass of the Old Hands Roble Monastrell DO Yecla, 2020 while I’m munching through leftover Easter eggs on the sofa. The cherry and fig flavours match the sweetness in the chocolate and the richness of the wine feels like a warm hug on the inside. Of course, if you fancy something a little stronger, you can't go wrong with a slightly chilled glass of Quinta do Noval Fine Ruby Port.
4. Eggs.
Eggs are so versatile that the wine can be chosen based on the style. As a given, eggs are both creamy and delicate so if you’re just having a straight-up, no frills egg, then a sparkling wine is the answer. If there’s toast involved, maybe lean towards some brioche notes in the wine, such as the Velfrey Sparkling Brut, NV or the Dell Vineyard’s Clidda Gawr Col Fondo, 2023. For anything involving bacon, salmon or hollandaise, you can’t go wrong with an oaked Chenin blanc. The Rascallion Susurrous, 2019 from South Africa is both rich and fruity and an egg-sellent accompaniment to a posh bank holiday brunch.