Sommelier’s Favorite Wines: Perfect Pairings for the Season
January 03, 2025
Our Sommelier, Megan Dickerson, began her restaurant career at 16, quickly gaining expertise in wine and food. Her early roles included bar management and curating wine lists. From 2014 to 2019, she honed her skills at top fine dining establishments in Washington, DC, including the Michelin-starred, Kinship, where she worked closely with sommeliers, deepening her passion for wine. Joining the Tides Inn in 2020, Megan ventured into management and began overseeing the wine program in 2023, earning her Level One Sommelier certification and expanding the wine offerings through classes and curation.
As the crisp air settles in and the holidays draw closer, there’s no better time to savor wines that complement the warmth and flavors of the season. Megan has curated a list of favorite winter wines that pair perfectly with festive meals, cozy evenings by the firepit and everything in between.
Rich and flavorful, a Red Zinfandel such as Turley Juvenile or French Syrah like Brotte Côte Rôtie are a classic choice for winter gatherings. Known for their spicy, robust notes, these wines elevate hearty dishes and bring out the best in traditional seasonal fare. Whether paired with roasted meats or savory stuffing, these reds are holiday staples.
For versatile pairings, White and Red Burgundies are go-to options. A standout is the Seguin-Manuel Viré-Clessé, a White Burgundy with crisp minerality and balanced fruitiness that pairs beautifully with seafood or pasta dishes. For red wine lovers, the Domaine Pillot En Sazenay 1er Cru is a must-try. This Pinot Noir delivers vibrant cranberry notes, earthy undertones and a smooth finish, making it an excellent choice for duck or seafood entrees.
For those who lean toward bold reds, the Stag’s Leap Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect companion for a steak dinner. This full-bodied wine boasts layers of dark fruit, spice and velvety tannins, enhancing the richness of beef dishes on the menu at Salt & Meadow.
For those looking to explore wines that are both affordable and full of character, Megan recommends a few hidden gems that are priced under $20.
Chateau Musar – A Lebanese Gem
One standout recommendation is Chateau Musar, a blend of Cinsault, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon that offers incredible value . This wine showcases dark fruit flavors with earthy undertones, providing a unique and full expression of the region.
Sicilian Treasures – Tenuta dell Terre Bianco Nere
Sicily is another region known for producing wines that offer exceptional value and Tenuta delle Terre Bianco Nere is no exception. This bright, crisp white wine bursts with refreshing citrus notes, making it an ideal choice for a winter day. It offers a vibrant and zesty profile that’s perfect for any wine lover.
Loire Valley Cabernet Franc – Chateau du Hureau “Tuffe”
Currently, Megan’s favorite is Chateau du Hureau Tuffe from the Loire Valley in France. This Cabernet Franc from Saumur-Champigny impresses with its juicy, fruit-forward start and refined, earthy finish. Offering complexity and balance, it’s a wine that stands out while remaining affordable.
There’s nothing like unwinding by the fire with a glass of smooth, full-bodied red wine. Look for wines with notes of ripe fruit, tobacco and silky tannins that bring warmth and coziness to cooler evenings. These are the wines that make you feel wrapped in comfort, perfect for winter nights under the stars.
From elegant Burgundies to bold Cabernets and spicy holiday reds, these wines are more than just beverages—they’re an experience. Whether you’re indulging in a holiday feast or savoring a quiet moment by the fire, Salt & Meadow’s wine selections ensure that every sip is as memorable as the season.