Top Choices for Easter Wines and Cocktails

As you gather around the lunch or dinner table for your annual Easter celebration, make the event an excuse to explore your options in wine and signature cocktails. If you've observed Lent for the past 40 days, you might celebrate the occasion with a new wine pairing with your meal, or put together a creative drink for everyone to enjoy. Your choice of wine will largely depend on the menu at hand; popular picks for Easter dinner include baked ham, lamb chops, or roast chicken. The standards for wine pairing still apply; light meats and dishes are best enhanced with light wines. Here are some of the best picks from red and white labels that will complement your meal:

Baked Ham: Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied Chardonnay are sure to fit the bill. Try the 2001 St. Supery Sauvignon Blanc or 2000 Columbia Crest Grand Estates. A light-bodied Gewurtzraminer will also provide some fresh flavors. Pinot Grigio is the most popular choice for baked ham or chicken dishes with a mild and delicate taste.

Fish: Choose a light Pinot Grigio or crisp Chardonnay. The 1999 Beringer Sbragia is a great choice for most types of fish and seafood dishes, and offers a well-balanced finish and crisp flavor. Viognier is another top pick, perfect with salmon, scallops, and even lobster.

Tomato-based dishes or casseroles: choose a Chianti or light Pinot Noir. The 1999 Merry Edwards Klopp Ranch is a prime pick this year, or choose the Rocca della Macie Chianti Classico. Barbera also works well for heavier casseroles or meat-based dishes, and is a common find paired with Italian-based recipes.

Roasted Chicken: Try a Shiraz/Syrah for a slightly peppery flavory. A light merlot will also work well with a roast chicken and potato meal, while standard whites might include a Chenin Blanc, Pinot Blanc, or Chablis.

Desserts fare well with a sparkling champagne, Riesling, or light Chardonnay. Cheesecake will work best with a bubbling Moscato D'Asti, while chocolate cake or heavier desserts can be enhanced with a deep red or port wine. If you're making your special apple pie a la mode, pair it with the Johannesberg Riesling for the perfect addition!