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Expert Wine Pairings for Holiday Meals in Lake Charles

Planning a holiday visit to Lake Charles? Enjoy exceptional dining at top restaurants open for festive meals and celebrations.

At Ember Grille and Wine Bar, savor guest favorites alongside new seasonal specials crafted by Chef de Cuisine Brock Granger. He masterfully blends seasonal ingredients into classics, such as root vegetables with Brasato (braised beef) served on stone-ground grits with braising jus, squash alongside pan-roasted fish, or parsnips and mushrooms with grilled wild salmon. Appetizers include duck tacos and arugula salad with figs and pears.

Pair these dishes perfectly with wine recommendations from sommelier and General Manager Nicholas Sensat, who curates selections for your holiday gatherings.

Sensat recommends Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for traditional Thanksgiving dishes. "To impress guests, opt for a Pinot Noir from Oregon's Willamette Valley—it's a perfect balance of sweet and earthy," he advises. "For turkey, choose an unoaked Chardonnay; it's ideal for wine novices and pairs beautifully."

Celebrate with bubbly: Champagnes and sparkling wines shine alone or in cocktails like mimosas (orange juice), Poinsettias (cranberry juice), or Kir Royale (Chambord). "Our seafood tower or baked oysters pair exquisitely with Champagne," Sensat notes.

Elevate dessert with overlooked gems like dessert wines. "Ice wine is my top pick, especially Inniskillin 'Vidal' from Niagara," says Sensat. "Look for 'Vin Glacé' on the label." For red, try Port—standard for semi-sweet, Tawny for intense sweetness. Pair ice wine with Ember's crème brûlée or Tawny Port with chocolate soufflé: "It's heavenly."

For a bolder finish, Grappa—a potent spirit from wine grape pomace—delivers satisfaction. "Not for everyone, but delicious and perfect for that post-Thanksgiving nap," Sensat adds.

Indulge in stress-free holiday dining at these Southwest Louisiana spots:

  • Blue Dog Café
  • The Pioneer Club
  • L’Auberge Casino Resort
  • Golden Nugget Lake Charles
  • Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel
  • Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino

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