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“I’M A WINE EXPERT AND HERE’S WHY YOU’VE BEEN PAIRING YOUR CHRISTMAS DINNER WINES ALL WRONG”

15 December, 2025

• Sam Caporn, Aldi’s wine expert, says it’s time to break tradition and be more adventurous when pairing wines this Christmas
• From pigs in blankets to Brussels sprouts and creamy cauliflower cheese, Sam shares unexpected pairings from Aldi’s latest wine range, available in stores now

Aldi’s wine expert, Sam Caporn, is here to settle the debate on which traditional classics should be kept on the dinner table and the unconventional bottles worth bending the rules for.

Sam says: “Christmas dinner is arguably the most celebrated meal of the year, so people instinctively stick to the classics – Chablis with starters, structured reds with roasted meats, and sweet wine or port to finish. While these are all great options, there is room for creativity, and some unexpected wines can completely transform the experience.”

While Christmas dinner pairing guidance is in abundance, the delicious trimmings and adventurous dishes are often forgotten when choosing wines for the big day. To remedy this, Aldi has worked with Sam to share the ultimate matches for items such as pigs in blankets, Brussels sprouts, and even creamy cauliflower cheese. With prices starting from just £5.99, shoppers can impress guests with their vino selection this festive season without breaking the bank.

Pair pigs in blankets with: Aldi’s Specially Selected Crémant de Bordeaux Rosé (£9.49 reduced to £7.09, 75cl)

According to Sam: “Pigs in blankets, a true Christmas staple, can be elevated with a playful sparkling rosé. The crisp bubbles and refreshing acidity cut through the richness of the pork and bacon beautifully, cleansing the palate to make each bite even more delicious.”

Pair roast turkey with an unconventional twist: Aldi’s Specially Selected Cigales Rosado (£8.99 reduced to £6.69, 75cl)

Sam says: “Whilst rosé isn’t always the first choice for turkey, those wanting to throw out the traditional rulebook this season should reach for Aldi’s Specially Selected Cigales Rosado. With delicate aromas of cranberry, rosehip and redcurrant, this pale-pink pour has refreshing acidity and crispness that cuts beautifully through the richness of roast turkey, while its cranberry notes are a clever nod to everyone’s favourite festive sauce.”

Pair sprouts with: Aldi’s Der Komponist Austrian Orange Wine (£7.79, 75cl)

Sam explains: “What people don’t realise is how versatile orange wine is; it’s bold, structured, and perfect for dishes with personality, such as Brussels sprouts. This unique wine is also perfect for vegetarian mains.”

Pair mince pies with: Aldi’s Fletcher’s 10-Year Old Tawny Port (£13.49, 75cl)

Sam says: “Looking for something to pair with a sweet mince pie or Christmas pudding? This silver medal winning[1]10-Year Old Tawny Port has aromas and flavours of figs, nuts, sultanas and orange zest, which brilliantly complement those of mince pies – a perfect festive combination!’’

[1] Internationalwinechallenge.com