Holiday Wine Traditions from Around the World

The holidays are celebrated differently all around the world, but one thing remains constant: wine is at the heart of many of these traditions. From mulled wine at European Christmas markets to sparkling Moscato on Italian tables, wine has a way of bringing people together to celebrate the season. Let’s take a trip around the globe and explore how different cultures incorporate wine into their holiday festivities.

1. France: Warm Up with Vin Chaud

In France, the holiday season isn’t complete without Vin Chaud (French for “hot wine”). This delicious mulled wine is made by gently warming red wine with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a touch of sugar. It’s a staple at Christmas markets, where vendors serve it steaming hot in festive mugs. The scent alone—spiced and citrusy—feels like a warm hug.

Why not bring a bit of French tradition to your own celebrations? Pair Vin Chaud with flaky croissants or buttery cookies for a cozy evening by the fire.

2. Italy: Moscato D’Asti for La Vigilia

In Italy, Christmas Eve (known as La Vigilia) is a time for family, seafood feasts, and, of course, wine. One of the most beloved pairings is a light, sparkling Moscato d’Asti, known for its delicate sweetness and gentle fizz. Its floral and fruity notes balance beautifully with rich seafood dishes like baked clams, shrimp scampi, and linguine with white wine sauce.

This wine is all about celebration—light, refreshing, and perfect for toasting with loved ones.

3. Germany: Glühwein and Christmas Cheer

In Germany, holiday cheer means sipping Glühwein, a spiced wine similar to France’s Vin Chaud. It’s traditionally served at outdoor Christmas markets, where the aroma of warm red wine mixed with cinnamon, star anise, and citrus fills the air.

Glühwein is often paired with hearty, festive snacks like pretzels or roasted nuts, making it the perfect choice for a chilly winter evening. Pro tip: Make a batch of Glühwein at home to keep your guests warm during outdoor holiday gatherings.

4. Argentina: Torrontés for a Summer Celebration

In Argentina, Christmas is celebrated in the heat of summer, so the traditions are a bit different. Families gather outdoors for a traditional barbecue (asado), and the wine of choice is usually Torrontés. This crisp, aromatic white wine has notes of tropical fruit and citrus, making it the ideal complement to grilled meats and vibrant chimichurri sauce.

For a fun twist, try pairing Torrontés with grilled shrimp skewers or a zesty citrus salad at your next holiday party.

5. The U.S.: Champagne for New Year’s Eve

No holiday season is complete without a toast to the new year, and in the United States, that means Champagne. Whether you’re popping a vintage bottle at a formal gathering or clinking glasses with friends at midnight, sparkling wine has become synonymous with celebration.

For an extra festive touch, garnish your Champagne flutes with fresh raspberries or a twist of citrus. And don’t forget: sparkling wines like Prosecco and Cava are equally celebratory (and more budget-friendly!).

This holiday season, why not embrace a new tradition from around the world? From the warmth of Glühwein to the sparkle of Moscato, these international favorites remind us that no matter where we are, wine has a way of bringing people together.

Here’s to celebrating with a full glass and an open heart—cheers from Uncorked with Caroline!