As the holidays approach, our tables fill with family, stories, and the unmistakable aromas of festive cooking. Here in Texas, those meals become even more memorable when paired with the vibrant wines of the High Plains. Think of this as your curated holiday menu — a course-by-course guide to High Plains wines that complement every bite.
For Starters
Kick things off with a glass of McPherson Cellars’ Brut Tempranillo Sparkling. Its crisp bubbles and bright texture cut through rich appetizers and pair effortlessly with everything from charcuterie to festive appetizers. At Llano Estacado Winery, the Fumé Blanc, an oaked blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, brings richness and lift, making it a perfect companion to roasted poultry bites or elegant hors d’oeuvres.
The Main Course
When the centrepiece of the meal arrives, turn to the expressive reds and balanced whites of the High Plains. Llano Estacado’s Nebbiolo, with its light body and soft tannins, is made for savoury holiday ham. McPherson Cellars’ Counoise adds juicy fruit and gentle structure, complementing roasted vegetables, mushroom dishes, and traditional turkey. The Adelphos Cellars Primitivo brings deeper, richer fruit that pairs beautifully with smoked turkey or herb-crusted ham.
Side Dish
Holiday herb-driven sides meet their match with Llano’s Signature White Blend, a buttery, stone-fruit–forward wine that effortlessly lifts classic stuffing or dressing. Adelphos Cellars’ Viognier also shines here, offering floral softness and warm aromatics that pair beautifully with rosemary, sage, and thyme. If your plate tends to be a little bit of everything (as most holiday plates are), Fire Sky Vineyard’s Picpoul-based White Wine balances the full spread with refreshing versatility.
For Dessert
Once the pies come out, the High Plains has your dessert pairings covered. McPherson’s Fleur d’Oranger Dessert Wine brings fragrant orange-blossom warmth that pairs especially well with pumpkin and pecan pies. Llano Estacado’s Chairman’s Reserve Port delivers a rich, chocolate-friendly depth for those who end their meal with something decadent. And for nut-forward desserts, Adelphos Cellars’ Forte Dessert Wine adds a smooth, richly flavoured finish that beautifully ties the meal together.
For the Table
For large celebrations where every plate looks different, Fire Sky Vineyard’s Kate Red Blend and White Wine shine with adaptability. Whether guests choose turkey, ham, stuffing, or a bit of everything, these easy-going wines pair seamlessly with the full holiday spectrum.
A Toast to the High Plains
The Texas High Plains is more than a wine region; it’s a community of growers and winemakers whose passion takes centre stage during the holidays. Their wines don’t simply accompany food; they spark conversations, enhance tradition, and bring true West Texas character to every table.
This season, let the High Plains pour warmth, connection, and a sense of place into your celebrations. Cheers to meals worth remembering and the wines that make them unforgettable.
Posted by: Visit Lubbock
Posted on: 18/11/2025