Put on your yarmulke, here comes Chanukah! Hanukkah. Chanukkah?
However you spell it, the Festival of Lights is almost here! And although there may not be any parties or big shindigs, there is still plenty of cause for celebration.
You don’t need any party to have a reason for latkes, so break out the potatoes and get to frying. We love these crispy, salty, totally greasy pancakes of joy, and to go with them, we suggest an unoaked Chardonnay. The goal is to get a bright, light flavor to help cut through the oil. If Chardonnays aren’t your thing, a Sauvignon Blanc would be excellent here.
If you’re like us and always have a brisket for Hanukkah, go back to basics and pick a red wine for the red meat. In this case, a red Zinfandel (look to California for this one) would be delightful – all of those fruity flavors with just a bit of peppery spice – it’s magical. You could also find a Spanish Rioja which is elegance in a bottle. It’s fruitier than a Cab Sauv but a little more structured in tannins and acid. It’s a treat, and honestly, you deserve one this year.
This is a year of celebrating the small things, and what better than a bottle of bubbly? Plus some light bubbles are amazing with fried foods, especially those delightful Sufganiyot, or jelly doughnuts. We’re feeling some Prosecco right now – those Italian vibes really help on the dreary cold days. Obviously a sparkling Rosé is an option that we always support.
Meanwhile, while you’re spinning dreidel while Zooming with your grandma, keep the gelt nearby along with a glass of Lambrusco. The milk chocolate of the chocolate coins needs something fruity and bright, so this sparkling red is a perfect match.
And if you just want something delicious to keep spirits up during this unique Hanukkah, we always love a New York dry Riesling, or a South African Chenin Blanc. Whatever you’re drinking on these eight crazy nights, we wish you the happiest of holidays!
