When the evenings draw in, the air turns crips and the world outside seems to slow down, some of the best wine moments aren’t about grand occasions. They are about simple, warm rituals that ask for a glass, blanket and a pause Here are five of my favourite winter-wine moments that you’ll want to recreate this season.
- Firelight and Soft Red
Picture this: you’ve drawn the curtains, lit a fire or a few candles, the glow warms the room and you have a glass of smooth red wine in your hand. Maybe you’ve roasted root-vegetables, made a simple tomato-based pasta or even just stepped in from the cold and want something calming.
Choose a red that’s comfortable – not too heavy, good structure, rich berries, a touch of spice. Sit back, let the world settle and sip slowly.
Why this works: Winter asks for a wine that feels comforting but not ponderous. The warmth of the room and the glass in hand ground the moment.
Tip: Let the wine breathe a little if it’s younger. And pair it with something that echoes its character (roast veggies, earthy pasta, dark chocolate).
2. Baking-and-Bringing Out the Bubbles
Cold nights, oven warmth, the scent of something sweet….bring a bottle of sparkling or light-bubbled wine into the kitchen while you bake cookies, make tart or just warm up the house with the smell of flour and sugar. Pour a glass, taste the bubbles, chat, unwrap something cozy.
Why this works: Sparkling wine isn’t just for big celebrations. In winter, it adds a little sparkle to the ordinary and makes a kitchen moment feel special.
Tip: Choose a sparkling wine with friendly bubbles and food-pairing-potential. Cookies with almonds or citrus-zest tarts are great. And don’t forget to keep a small decanter or stoppered bottle if you only open a half-size.
3. Blanket, Book, and a Quiet White
The snow might be falling, or the rain tapping at the window. You are wrapped in a blanket, you’ve picked a book or you’re letting your mind wander. A crisp yet comforting white wine is your companion. Something leaner, with a bit of freshness, so it doesn’t pull you out of that calm.
Why this works: Winter isn’t always about bold reds. A white wine in the right context feels like clarity, like winter light coming through frost-covered windows.
Tip: Pick a white with moderate acidity (so it has structure) and subtle depth. Chill it just enough so it’s refreshing but not icy. Sit somewhere cosy and just be.
4. Late-Night Cheese Board & a Bold Rosé or Light Red
It’s after dinner, the kitchen lights are low, maybe a playlist is on, and you’re nibbling on a small cheese boards with friends or simply by yourself. Now’s a great time for something a little lighter that a full-bodied red – perhaps a rosé with some weight or a delicate light red. One that invites conversation, reflection and slow sips.
Why this works: The mix of good cheese, mellow light, and wine that’s present but not demanding makes for a deeply relaxed winter moment.
Tip: Choose cheeses with character (soft ripened, blue, aged mild cheddar) and pair with the wine’s texture rather than pushing the wine to dominated. A lighter red or richer rosé can bridge the gap nicely.
5. Snowed-In Brunch & a Sparkling or Fresh Rosé
Perhaps the snow has fallen overnight. The world outside is quiet. You’re brunch a little later than usual – pancakes or shakshuka, soft eggs, fresh bread, jam. And for the wine? Something bubbly or a fresh rosé that feels like a promise of spring in the midst of winter.
Why this works: Brunch in winter gets a lovely twist when you add wine that says “ this day is gently special“. It’s not about late night or parties – it’s about delighting in the pause.
Tip: A sparkling wine light enough for daytime, or a rosé with good fruit and balance. Keep it simple – minimal fuss. Let the moment breathe.
Some Final Thoughts
- Winter wine moments are less about „let’s drink a big bottle“ and more about intention. A glass poured with purpose, an environment set for calm, the company (even if it’s just you).
- the right setting makes all the difference: textured blankets, warm lighting, herb-scented candle, a window with frost, comfortable loungewear.
- The right wine for the moment matters: it doesn’t have to be expensive. It has to match the mood.
- Document your moments: On Seasons in a Glass, I always love hearing which wine you picked, where you sat, what you were thinking. Winters are short – these memories matter.