Gourmet journey around Food and Champagne Pairings for the festive season

The festive season is synonymous with sharing, traditions and culinary delights.

And what could be better than Champagne to accompany these precious moments? In this article, embark on a world tour of iconic food and Champagne pairings for this joyful time of year.

Step 1: Canada – Québec Tourtière and Blanc de Noirs

Head to the Canadian cold, where the “Tourtière” is the star of Christmas tables. This generous pie combines meat (beef, pork or game), shortcrust pastry and spices such as cloves. It is often served with cranberry sauce or a sweet cabbage salad./span>

To enhance this rich and spiced dish, a Champagne Blanc de Noirs is ideal. Its structure and fruity aromas highlight the meat, while its freshness balances the generosity of the dish. A warm and authentic pairing, just like Québec.

Step 2: Italy – Spaghetti alle vongole and Champagne Blanc de Blancs

Next stop: Naples, where Christmas Eve often begins with spaghetti and clams. This iodic dish, lifted by fresh parsley, calls for a Champagne of great finesse.

A Blanc de Blancs, with its notes of citrus, white flowers and minerality, perfectly complements the marine flavours. Served as a starter, it creates a smooth transition between the aperitif and the more structured dishes of the meal.

Step 3: Belgium – Shrimp Croquettes and Champagne Rosé

In Belgium, grey shrimp croquettes are a must during the festive season. Crispy on the outside, melting on the inside, they offer a fine balance between richness and salinity.

A Champagne Rosé, predominantly Pinot noir, will bring liveliness and freshness to the pairing. Its fruity aromas contrast with the marine flavours, adding complexity and elegance to the pairing.

Step 4: Sweden – Lutfisk and Vintage Champagne

The final stop is Sweden, with the traditional Julbord, a Christmas buffet featuring multiple dishes. Among them, Lutfisk – dried cod rehydrated and served with nutmeg béchamel and pea purée.

To accompany this dish with pronounced flavours, a Vintage Champagne mainly composed of Chardonnay is recommended. Its evolved aromas and acidity bring freshness and harmony to this Nordic speciality.

Whether you are in France, Europe or elsewhere, Champagne adapts to culinary traditions from all over the world. It enhances dishes and makes every moment of celebration unique.