Chinese New Year dinners are all about abundance, harmony, and sharing. From symbolic dishes to long festive feasts, French wines — known for their balance and food-friendly style — make a natural pairing at the table.
Sparkling Wines | A Festive Start
Champagne, French Crémant or Blanquette de Limoux
Perfect for welcoming guests and starting the celebration.
Pair with spring rolls, prawn dumplings, fried snacks, or seafood appetisers. The bubbles refresh the palate and set a celebratory tone.
Fresh Whites | Seafood & Light Dishes
Chablis, Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc or Bordeaux Blanc
Ideal for whole steamed fish, prawns, scallops, and vegetable dishes.
Crisp acidity highlights freshness while complementing delicate sauces.
Rounded Whites | Poultry & Savoury Plates
White Burgundy (Chardonnay), Rhone White, Provence or Bandol white
Pair with white-cut chicken, soy-sauce chicken, or lightly braised dishes.
The wine’s texture and gentle richness enhance savoury flavours without overpowering them.
Elegant Reds | Roast & BBQ Dishes
Merlot-led Bordeaux (Right Bank), Loire Pinot Noir
A natural match for char siu, roast pork belly, and mixed roast platters.
Soft tannins and ripe fruit balance sweet-savory glazes beautifully.
Refined Reds | Duck & Umami Dishes
Burgundy Pinot Noir, Côte-Rôtie, Cornas, Saint Joseph, Loire Cabernat Franc
Excellent with Peking duck, roast duck, or mushroom-based dishes.
These wines offer structure and elegance that cut through richness while highlighting umami notes.
Rich Reds | Braised & Slow-Cooked Dishes
Bordeaux Supérieur , Rhône Valley blends, Bandol Red
Pair with red-braised pork belly, beef brisket, or claypot dishes.
Fuller-bodied styles bring warmth and depth to long festive meals.
Sweet Wines | A Gentle Finish
Sweet Rhone (Doux) or Sauternes
Enjoy with nian gao, sweet dumplings, or light desserts.
Serve in small pours for a refined, celebratory ending.
Hosting Tip:
For Lunar New Year, choose wines that are balanced, versatile, and easy to enjoy. Harmony at the table matters more than bold intensity.
