Two sets of hands rest on glasses of Pinot Noir with a wine bottle between then and the flames from a warm fire pit in the near distance.

Escape Holiday Stress with Wine & Hygge

Stories

4 minutes reading

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring about significant stress. Between planning gatherings, shopping, preparing meals, and managing busy schedules, finding moments of calm can feel impossible. Enter the Danish concept of hygge—a lifestyle focused on comfort, coziness, and connection. Combining hygge with a glass of wine can create a perfect antidote to holiday stress. Join us as we navigate how to embrace hygge and enjoy wine for a more relaxed holiday season.

Understanding Hygge

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is all about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with loved ones. It encourages slowing down, savoring moments, and prioritizing wellbeing. As the holidays can often feel rushed and overwhelming, incorporating hygge into your routine can be transformative.

Key Elements of Hygge:

  1. Cozy Spaces: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home with soft blankets, candles, and dim lighting.
  2. Simple Pleasures: Focus on small joys—like a good book, a favorite movie, or a comforting cup of tea (or wine).
  3. Connection: Spend quality time with friends and family, fostering meaningful conversations and connections.
A young Asian woman with long black hair sits next to a cozy fire pit and takes a sip of a glass of red wine while wrapped in a fluffy, red, sherpa blanket.

Wine: The Perfect Companion for Hygge

Wine pairs beautifully with the hygge lifestyle, offering a way to unwind and enjoy the moment. Here are some tips on how to integrate wine into your hygge holiday routine:

Choose the Right Wine for Your Mood

Different wines can evoke different feelings, so select a wine that complements your current mood:

  • For Relaxation: A smooth Pinot Noir can be comforting, perfect for curling up with a blanket.
  • For Celebration: A sparkling wine like Cremant d’Alsace adds a festive touch to gatherings.
  • For Cozy Nights: A rich Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with hearty meals and warming winter dishes.

Create a Wine Tasting Night

Gather friends for a cozy wine tasting night. Set up a selection of wine to include a variety of reds, whites, sparklings, and perhaps a dessert wine. Encourage everyone to share their favorites. This fosters connection and allows for enjoyable discussions about different flavors and aromas. Pair the wines with simple appetizers like cheese, charcuterie, or seasonal snacks to create a relaxing atmosphere filled with warmth and laughter.

A cozy bowl of Thai chicken curry and crunchy noodles rests on a table covered in a blue linen table cloth beside a glass of Riesling, an asparagus and radish salad, and squash as table decor.

Wine and Comfort Food Pairings

Comfort food is at the heart of hygge. Prepare hearty dishes that can be paired with your chosen wines. For example:

  • Chardonnay with Pot Pie: The richness of the buttery crust and filling complement the buttery notes of an oak aged Chardonnay.
  • Zinfandel with Chili: The bold flavors of Zinfandel enhance the spices in chili, making for a comforting winter meal.
  • Riesling with Spicy Thai Curry: A medium-dry Riesling offers a balance of refreshing acidity and subtle sweetness that complement the flavors in curry while taming the heat.
  • Port with Chocolate Desserts: End your evening on a sweet note with a rich dessert wine that pairs perfectly with chocolates or decadent pastries (even better if you blend the two together.) 

Incorporate Seasonal Wines

Make your holiday celebrations even more special by choosing wines that reflect the festive season. Look for:

  • Spiced Wines: Mulled wine, infused with spices like cinnamon and cloves, can add a festive touch to your hygge evenings.
  • Full-Bodied Reds: Hearty reds are perfect for warming up on cold nights. (Not sure what “full-bodied” means? Check out our guidance on wine terms.) 
  • Dessert Wines: Treat yourself to something sweet, such as a late-harvest Riesling, to enjoy with holiday treats.

Create a Cozy Environment

Now that you have the wine selected, set the stage for hygge by making your space inviting. Light some candles, play soft music, and arrange comfortable seating. A warm throw blanket and a crackling fire (or a simple electric fireplace) can make all the difference. With a glass of wine in hand, you will find it easier to unwind and embrace the moment. 

A woman with dark hair wears a black and white striped shirt and pensively sips a glass of Pinot Noir while savoring the tasting experience.

Mindful Sipping

As always, embrace mindfulness while enjoying your wine. Take the time to savor each sip, noting the flavors and aromas. This practice can enhance your appreciation for the wine and the moment. Set aside your phone, avoid distractions, and truly engage with your wine and your company. This intentionality aligns perfectly with the hygge philosophy. (And drive responsibly.) 

The holiday season does not have to be a source of stress. By embracing hygge and incorporating wine into your holiday routine, you can create moments of relaxation and joy. Focus on creating cozy environments, savoring simple pleasures, and connecting with loved ones. Wine and hygge can help you navigate the holiday season with ease. Cheers to a stress-free holiday filled with warmth, comfort, and delightful wines!