At Healthy Options, our celebrations always come with food and wine. In fact, we have ‘Wine Fridays’ in the office where I open bottles of wines (paired with food) for special occasions, such as welcoming new employees, celebrating birthdays, or recognizing staff promotions. And naturally, Christmas and New Year are the biggest celebrations of all.
Here’s why wines have been traditionally offered with food during celebrations since the ancient times:
- 1. Cultural and Historical Significance - In ancient civilizations, from Greece and Rome to Egypt, wine was seen as a symbol of abundance, celebration, and divinity. It was used in religious ceremonies and social gatherings, making it a central element of festive occasions.
- In fact, monks of the medieval period viewed viticulture and winemaking as essential elements of their religious duties. Wine was needed for the Eucharist, and its symbolic significance in Christian rituals made the cultivation of vineyards a priority. In particular, the Benedictine and Cistercian monks were the first to establish vineyards across France, Italy, and Germany.
- 2. Enhancing the Dining Experience - Wine is known to complement and enhance the flavors of food. Its complex flavors—ranging from sweet and fruity to dry and tannic—create a harmonious balance when paired with a well-prepared meal. For example, a rich red wine might enhance the flavors of Wagyu steak, while the acidity of a crisp white wine could cut through the fatty but delicious lechon.
- 3. Social Bonding and Hospitality - In many cultures, wine is considered a mark of gracious hosting, and it plays a key role in setting the mood for the celebration. The act of toasting with wine symbolizes good wishes, unity, and shared happiness, bringing people closer together. Offering wine also demonstrates generosity and a desire to make guests feel welcome.
- 4. Symbolism of Wine - The fermentation process that transforms grapes into wine is also seen as a metaphor for transformation and growth, mirroring the idea of celebrating personal or communal achievements and life changes.
- 5. A Tradition of Pairing Food and Wine - In countries like France and Italy, pairing food and wine is an art form, with certain wines associated with specific regional dishes. This tradition of pairing ensures that wine is always present alongside food during celebrations, honoring both the quality o f the meal and the wine.
- For your Christmas parties, family reunions and Noche Buena, I hope you will add some special wines to your table (if you haven’t already) to bring Christmas cheers to everyone!
Merry Christmas,
Romy Sia
