Lunar New Year is a vibrant celebration filled with rich traditions, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. Festivities mark the beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar and involve many carefully selected symbols of renewal, prosperity, and good fortune. This year, elevate your Lunar New Year festivities by incorporating wine into your celebrations.
The Significance of Togetherness
At the heart of Lunar New Year is the spirit of togetherness. Families come together to honor ancestors, share stories, and create lasting memories. Inviting both immediate family and dear friends to join together for a lavish meal is a cherished tradition. Pairing your meal with the right wines can enhance the flavors of the dishes and create a more enjoyable experience.
Traditional Foods for Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year meals are often filled with symbolic dishes that represent prosperity, happiness, and good luck. Here are some traditional foods you might consider, along with wine pairings that elevate the celebrations.
1 – Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Symbolism: Dumplings are shaped like ancient Chinese gold ingots to symbolize wealth and prosperity.
Wine Pairing: Riesling
A slightly sweet (medium dry) Riesling is a fantastic match for dumplings whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. The wine’s crisp acidity and fruity notes balance the savory flavors of the dumpling filling. Dumplings are often filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables, which make them an excellent choice for varied dietary preferences.
2 – Fish (Yú)
Symbolism: Serving fish during Lunar New Year is a symbol of surplus and abundance.
Wine Pairing: Dry Muscat
Pair your fish dish with a unique and refreshing dry Muscat. Its summer stone fruit flavors and floral notes complement the delicate flavors of steamed or grilled fish to enhance the dish while keeping the palate refreshed.
3 – Noodles (Changshou Mian)
Symbolism: Long noodles symbolize longevity and a long life. (Psst…don’t cut the noodles!)
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay
For noodle dishes, such as stir-fried noodles or noodle soup, a Chardonnay works beautifully. An oaked Chardonnay will offer a buttery texture and fruitiness that pair very well with the savory flavors of the dish, especially if it includes chicken or seafood.
4 – Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)
Symbolism: Spring rolls represent wealth.
Wine Pairing: Sparkling Wine
Nearly all celebrations are elevated with a glass of sparkling wine, but even more so when paired with savory, fried nibbles. The effervescence cuts through the richness of the fried spring rolls and complements the fresh flavors of dipping sauces.
5 – Sticky Rice Cake (Nian Gao)
Symbolism: This dish represents progress and the promise of a better year ahead.
Wine Pairing: Late Harvest or Dessert Wine
Pair this sweet dish with a late harvest wine or dessert wine, such as a Sauternes. The wine’s natural sweetness will beautifully balance the chewy texture and sweet flavors of the rice cake.
Creating a Memorable Atmosphere
The Lunar New Year is not only about the food; it’s also about the atmosphere. Create a warm and inviting environment to encourage togetherness. Here are some tips:
- Decorate with Red: Red is a color of luck and happiness in Chinese culture. Use red decorations, lanterns, and table settings to create a festive ambiance.
- Gather Around One Table: Encourage everyone to share stories and laughter over the meal. This creates a sense of connection and joy.
- Mindful Drinking: As you enjoy your wine pairings, take a moment to appreciate the flavors and the company. Raise a toast to new beginnings and shared experiences.
Celebrating Lunar New Year with wine and food pairings is a wonderful way to enhance the festivities while honoring tradition. Be sure to select the wines thoughtfully to complement the traditional dishes on the table. Remember, the essence of Lunar New Year lies in togetherness, so gather your family and friends, share stories, and enjoy the delicious food and wine that symbolize prosperity and joy. Cheers!