In the tasting room, we often hear customers say, "I don't know anything about wine!" and our response is simply, "you know what you like".  The world of wine can be overly complicated and seem somewhat pretentious for those who do not live and breathe wine.  My thoughts are that most people have a specialty, vast knowledge on a specific subject; they are experts in their own field.  One's skills can range from customer service to chemistry, or from mapmaking to mortgage lending.  However, I have found that there is a certain aura surrounding the wine industry and it is often viewed as prestigious career path and product.  Now, don't misunderstand, there is a tremendous amount of work that goes into farming the grapes and when the growing season doesn't provide us with the ideal climate, which it rarely does, the expertise of a skilled winemaker is needed to basically right the wrongs in the grape crop.  Combating high acid levels, low sugars, faults and flaws, a winemaker with a large portfolio of wines is pulled in many different directions as they strive to bring out the best in every varietal while ensuring the wines are ready for bottling and stable for long-term aging. 

Back to the initial post topic: "What wines should I serve with my Holiday meal?".   I absolutely love food and wine pairing and because I am an expert on Deer Run wines (so says me) I am going to help you choose the very best Deer Run wines for your upcoming gathering.  I recommend you have a variety of wines on hand to satisfy a range of palates! Some people love sweet wine, some prefer dry reds, others won't touch a red wine and will only drink white. Some don't care what their served as long as their glass is filled!  

Follow the flowcharts below to find my recommendations of the Deer Run wines that should grace your Holiday table depending on the main course served and who is coming over for dinner!

I hope these recommendations help you take the guesswork out of food and wine pairing.  It all comes down to what you and what your guests like. Happy holidays to you from all of us here at Deer Run Winery.  May your family be blessed, your bellies be full and your wine glass never go empty!