The Best Winter Wedding Food and Drink Pairings

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Winter weddings have a unique charm. Think cosy fireplaces, twinkling lights, and a touch of magic in the air. And when it comes to food and drink, there's a whole world of seasonal dishes to explore.

But with so many options, where do you even begin? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's your guide to creating a delicious and memorable winter wedding menu that perfectly complements the season.

Warm up with welcome drinks

As your guests arrive, greet them with something warm and inviting on your winter wedding menu.

• Mulled wine: This classic winter warmer is always a hit. You can easily set up a DIY mulled wine station with different spices and garnishes so guests can customise their drinks.
• Hot toddies: A mix of whisky, honey, lemon, and hot water, this is perfect for a chilly evening.
• Spiced cider: A non-alcoholic option that's full of flavour. Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves for extra warmth.

For more inspiration on how to make every guest feel special at your wedding, read this blog post.

Canapés with a winter twist

Add seasonal flair to your winter wedding menu with these bite-sized treats that are both delicious and visually appealing. 

• Miniature Yorkshire puddings with roast beef and horseradish: A festive twist on a classic.
• Smoked salmon blinis with crème fraîche and dill: Elegant and delicious.
• Wild mushroom and truffle arancini: Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Starters that shine on a winter wedding menu

For your starters, consider dishes that are hearty and satisfying. 

• Butternut squash soup with toasted pumpkin seeds: A creamy and comforting soup.
• Pan-seared scallops with celeriac purée and black pudding: A luxurious and flavourful dish.
• Winter salad with roasted root vegetables, goat's cheese, and pomegranate seeds: A lighter option with seasonal flavours.

Main courses to impress

This is where you can really showcase some seasonal ingredients. 

• Roast turkey with all the trimmings: A classic Christmas dish that's perfect for a winter wedding.
• Beef Wellington with red wine jus: A show-stopping dish that's sure to impress.
• Venison stew with roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes: A hearty and warming dish that's perfect for a cold winter's day.
• Mushroom and chestnut pithivier with a rich gravy: A delicious vegetarian option.

Delightful desserts to complete you winter wedding menu

Finish off the meal with something sweet and decadent.

• Sticky toffee pudding with warm custard: A classic British dessert that's always a winner.
• Chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream: A rich and indulgent treat.
• Apple crumble with cinnamon ice cream: A comforting seasonal dessert.

Drinks to complement your meal

When it comes to drinks, you'll want to choose options that complement your food. 

• Red wine: Pair a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot with red meat dishes.
• White wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay goes well with fish and lighter dishes.
• Sparkling wine or champagne: Perfect for toasting the happy couple. Discover our top 5 wedding champagnes here.
• Beer: Offer a selection of local craft beers for your guests to enjoy.

Don't forget the little touches

To make your winter wedding menu extra special, consider adding some personal touches. 

• Create a signature cocktail: Give it a festive name and garnish it with seasonal ingredients.
• Offer a hot chocolate bar: Let your guests customise their hot chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
• Set up a dessert table: Fill it with a variety of festive treats like gingerbread cookies, mince pies, and Christmas cake.

Most importantly…

Remember to have fun with it. Choose dishes that you and your partner love, and don't be afraid to get creative. After all, it's your special day.

With a little planning and attention to detail, you can create a winter wedding menu that's both delicious and memorable. Your guests will be talking about it for years to come.

Read this blog post for more behind-the-bar secrets for a stress-free and fun wedding.

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