Christmas dinner without wine? Amore mio, that’s like panettone without the candied fruit, or Nonna without her wooden spoon—unthinkable. In Italy, the table groans under platters of food, and right beside them, bottles of wine are waiting like trusted friends. Whether you’re feasting on roast turkey, seafood starters, or a dessert spread worthy of the Pope, there’s an Italian wine ready to join the party.

Today, I’m pouring you a guide to the best Italian wines for Christmas dinner—from sparkling Prosecco to bold Barolo, and sweet Vin Santo to finish the feast.

Christmas starts with a pop. Italians know this, which is why no festive meal begins without bubbles.

• Prosecco – crisp, light, and wallet-friendly. Perfect for a grazing board of salumi, olives, and cheese.

• Franciacorta – the elegant cousin. Made in the Champagne method, it’s complex and luxurious, ideal if you want to impress the in-laws.

• Asti Spumante – sweeter, fruitier, and fantastic with lighter nibbles or even panettone if you can’t wait until dessert.

Not everything has to be heavy at Christmas (unless we’re talking panettone portions). A chilled Italian white cuts through creamy starters and veggie sides like a fresh Alpine breeze.

• Pinot Grigio – light and crisp, it’s a safe choice when you’ve got guests with “mystery” dietary requirements.

• Verdicchio – nutty and slightly herby, delicious with roast veggies or baked fish.

• Soave – elegant, with a hint of almond, perfect alongside creamy mushroom pasta or risotto.

Here’s where we get serious. Reds are the backbone of Christmas dinner. They stand tall next to your roast meats, rich sauces, and Nonna’s lasagna.

• Barolo – “The King of Wines.” Bold, tannic, and made for beef, venison, or anything roasted with rosemary.

• Chianti Classico – medium-bodied, smooth, and a versatile friend. It works with turkey, lamb, or even a meat-stuffed pasta.

• Amarone della Valpolicella – rich, raisiny, and indulgent. This is the wine you bring out when the table has gone quiet and everyone’s fallen into a food coma.

Christmas dessert without sweet wine is a crime in my book. These beauties are basically liquid dessert.

• Vin Santo – Tuscany’s treasure. Dip your cantucci (almond biscuits) straight into the glass and thank me later.

• Moscato d’Asti – light, fizzy, and low alcohol. Perfect with panettone or pandoro.

• Passito di Pantelleria – lusciously sweet, with notes of dried fruit and honey. An absolute dream with Christmas pudding or tiramisù.

👉 If you’re drooling just thinking about it, my Italian Christmas Desserts & Drinks Collection is your shortcut to pairing recipes and wines without fuss. Think six classic desserts, six festive drinks, and all the tips you need to match them like a pro.

• Match the weight of the wine to the dish. Hearty roasts love bold reds, lighter dishes sing with whites.

• Balance sweet with sweet. Don’t serve a dry wine with panettone unless you want everyone making faces.

• Mix it up. Serve at least one sparkling, one red, and one sweet—Italy has too much good wine to stick to one bottle!

Italian wines make Christmas magical. They’re festive, versatile, and let’s be honest—they make family drama a lot easier to handle. Whether you’re popping Prosecco, pouring Barolo, or finishing with Moscato d’Asti, you’ll have a wine for every course and every guest.

So raise your glass, take a sip, and remember: Christmas is for laughter, carbs, and good wine.

👉 Don’t forget to my Italian Christmas Desserts & Drinks Collection—it’s like having Zia whispering pairing tips in your ear (without stealing all the panettone).

Buon Natale e salute! 🥂