Viña Santa Sofía Offers Tips for Enjoying Wine During the Winter

Fernando Bustos Latorre, founder and general manager of Viña Santa Sofía, notes that winter is also a good opportunity to discover different ways to enjoy wine and pay attention to details that often go unnoticed.

“During the colder months, we tend to choose dishes like roasted meats, stews, pasta, casseroles, or platters to share. Wine pairs very well with this type of cuisine, provided it’s served at the correct temperature and there’s a good balance between the dish and the wine,” says Fernando.

In addition to traditional ways of drinking wine, there are other preparations that are part of the wine culture in various countries during the winter. One of the best known is mulled wine, made with red wine, citrus fruits, and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, anise, and cardamom.

“Mulled wine is a time-honored tradition in Europe and offers a different way to enjoy wine on cold days. The recommendation is to heat it gently, without bringing it to a boil, to better preserve its aromas and allow the spices to blend harmoniously,” he adds.

Another important consideration is to observe the proper serving temperature for each wine. Serving a wine that is too cold or too warm can alter the perception of its aromas, structure, and balance.

“Temperature directly influences the tasting experience. Often, a slight adjustment is all it takes to better appreciate a wine’s aromas, fruit, and balance,” explains Bustos Latorre.

At Viña Santa Sofía, they emphasize that winter is also a great time to discover new wine-related experiences, whether by exploring different pairings, sharing a bottle with a meal, or learning about traditional preparations that are part of wine culture.

“Wine has a long history tied to gastronomy and moments of togetherness. Winter offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy it at a leisurely pace, experiment with new pairings, and discover dishes that tend to go unnoticed at other times of the year,” concludes Fernando.