Easter is fast approaching and falls on Sunday, April 5 this year. No Easter celebration feels complete without a big holiday ham, and bonus points if it is honey glazed. But what wines pair best with ham? While Easter often brings to mind light, bright whites and rosé, pairing wine with food takes it a step further. The perfect complement to Easter ham includes light, juicy reds, aromatic whites, and a little bubbly to keep the table feeling fresh and festive. Take a further look into why each wine pairs well with ham.
Light, Juicy Reds
Pair your classic ham with a light, juicy red that complements the glaze without overpowering it, keeping the pairing bright, balanced, and fresh
Gamay
Bright cherry fruit, juicy and jammy, and low tannins keep the ham fresh without changing the core flavors
- Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages
-
- This crisp, fruit-forward, juicy wine has expressive aromas and flavors of ripe red berries, with nice weight in the mouth.
Pinot Noir
Light body and acidity cut through the richness of the ham without overpowering
- St. Francis Pinot Noir
-
- This is a juicy, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with hints of cherry cola, raspberry and clove aromas followed by bright, crisp flavors of pomegranate, cherry and a touch of licorice.
Aromatic Whites
Ham with a sweet glaze pairs beautifully with an aromatic white because the wine’s bright acidity and fragrant fruit balance the saltiness of the ham while complementing the glaze’s sweetness
Riesling
Riesling in an off-dry style pairs well with Easter ham because its touch of sweetness complements the glaze while bright acidity balances the ham’s salty richness.
- The Seeker Riesling
-
- Off-dry with crisp acidity and vibrant fruit, featuring citrus, stone fruits and pineapple with a mineral-infused finish.
Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with Easter ham because its bright acidity cuts through the ham’s richness while its natural fruit and honeyed notes complement the sweet glaze
- Jacques Dumont Vouvray AOP
-
- Ripe pear, crisp green apple, and hints of flower blossoms on the nose, with nuanced minerality that brings elegance and bright tension to the palate.
Bubbles
A super underrated pairing with ham. The bright acidity and lively bubbles cut through the ham’s richness while keeping each bite fresh and balanced.
Prosecco
Light fruit and bubbles cleanse the palate
- Caposaldo Prosecco
-
- Bright with persistent bubbles, the wine has a fruity aroma of citrus, green apple and acacia blossoms. On the palate, the elegant, brut-style wine has a pleasant acidity and freshness and a soft, round mouthfeel.
