Hanukkah Wine & Food Pairings That Will Shine As Bright As The Menorah

Hanukkah is here! We’re in the midst of eight straight nights of celebrating with family and friends. Looking to switch up the classic snacks and sips for the rest of the week ahead? We’ve compiled some of our favorite traditional dishes paired with the perfect German wine, so you can spend less time planning your meal and more time spinning the dreidel!

Dry Riesling with Latkes Topped with Sour Cream and Apple Sauce

Fried potato pancakes are the perfect vehicle for nearly any topping, but sour cream and apple sauce are traditional (and tasty) options. Pair with glowing Hanukkah candles and a Riesling Trocken, which will complement sweet and sour flavors with citrusy notes of green apple and lemon and balance the rich nature of the dish with refreshing acidity. You’ll want to enjoy this dynamic duo all eight nights, and we certainly won’t stop you!

Spätburgunder Rosé with Tomato-Braised Brisket

Why not enjoy Rosé all year round? Brisket is often served as the centerpiece of a Hanukkah meal, bursting with savory flavors that melt in your mouth when paired with the perfect wine. The pronounced acidity of a fruity Spätburgunder Rosé will match the taste of tomato and cut through the fatty meat, and the light tannins will keep the night bright!

Riesling Sekt with Sufganiyot

Many Hanukkah foods are fried in oil as a tribute to the miracle of the Hanukkah lights, and dessert is no exception. Sufganiyot are delicious traditional donuts filled with jelly and topped with powdered sugar, and make for a sweet conclusion to any meal. Try pairing with a light and fruity Riesling Sekt, served chilled with freshly made, warm Sufganiyot. The bubbles and acidity will help temper the density and sweetness and leave you with room to eat a few pieces of chocolate gelt, too!