Perfect Pairings: Wines and Sides to Complement Your Champagne Ham

There’s nothing better than a good cut of champagne ham—except for maybe a good cut of champagne ham with the perfect sides and a great wine pairing. Whether you’re warming up your family on a cold July night or looking to impress guests with your culinary prowess, Online Meats has you covered. This time we’re not just supplying the meat; we’re giving you everything you need to pair it perfectly and create an unforgettable dining experience.

Why Champagne Ham Remains a Classic

Champagne ham is a Kiwi staple, especially for Christmas and other festive occasions. While you’ve likely savoured it at countless gatherings, have you ever wondered why it always steals the spotlight? The tradition can be traced back to the Vikings, who celebrated with feasts of wild boar. Over time, we embraced this custom (albeit, making it a little more accessible with pigs rather than boars). 

What truly sets champagne ham apart from regular ham is its unique preparation. The main leg bone is removed, leaving only the hock bone. The meat is then massaged and reshaped using netting to recreate its original form. This meticulous process not only enhances its flavour, infusing it with a delicate sweetness and tender texture but also makes it incredibly easy to carve. With such a rich tradition and a flavour profile, it’s only fair to do champagne ham justice by pairing it with the perfect sides.

Complementary Wine Pairings 

To pair perfectly with champagne ham, look for wines with the following characteristics:

• Acidity: Wines with good acidity can cut through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing contrast.

• Sweetness: A hint of sweetness in the wine can complement the ham’s delicate sugary notes.

• Body: The wine’s body should match the ham’s weight—lighter wines with light dishes, and fuller-bodied wines with more substantial flavours.

White Wines 

Riesling: Known for its vibrant acidity and slight sweetness, Riesling is a classic choice for pairing with champagne ham. Its crispness balances the ham's richness, while its fruity notes enhance the overall flavour profile.

Tasting Notes: Green apple, citrus, apricot, and floral hints.

Why It Works: The acidity of Riesling cuts through the ham's richness, while its sweetness complements the ham's subtle sugary undertones.

Chardonnay: A versatile white wine, Chardonnay offers a range of styles from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery. Opt for a lightly oaked or unoaked Chardonnay to avoid overwhelming the ham’s delicate flavours.

Tasting Notes: Apple, pear, vanilla, and a touch of oak.

Why It Works: The balanced acidity and fruitiness of Chardonnay enhance the ham’s flavour without overpowering it.

Sauvignon Blanc: With its high acidity and herbaceous notes, Sauvignon Blanc provides a refreshing contrast to the ham’s sweetness, making each bite more vibrant.

Tasting Notes: Lime, green apple, tropical fruits, and fresh herbs.

Why It Works: The zesty flavours cleanse the palate, complementing the ham’s richness.

Red Wines

Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine is an excellent match for champagne ham. Its bright acidity and red fruit flavours harmonise with the ham’s sweetness, making it a perfect pairing.

Tasting Notes: Cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthy undertones.

Why It Works: The light body and vibrant acidity of Pinot Noir enhance the ham without overshadowing it.

Merlot: For those who prefer a slightly fuller red, Merlot’s smooth tannins and plum-like flavours provide a wonderful balance to the ham’s sweetness.

Tasting Notes: Plum, blackberry, and hints of chocolate.

Why It Works: Merlot’s round texture adds depth to each bite.

Zinfandel: If you’re looking for a bolder option, Zinfandel’s spicy and fruity profile can add an exciting layer of flavour to your meal.

Tasting Notes: Black pepper, dark berries, and liquorice.

Why It Works: The flavours and spicy notes of Zinfandel create a great contrast with the ham’s sweetness. 

Complementary Side Dish Pairing

Vegetable Dishes

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the sweet and savoury notes of champagne ham. Roast the sprouts until crispy, then drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a tangy finish.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots add a delightful contrast to your plate. Roast or steam the carrots and toss them with a honey glaze for a touch of sweetness that complements the ham.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting, savoury contrast to the ham’s delicate flavours. Mash the potatoes with roasted garlic, butter, and a splash of cream for the perfect side.

Salads

Waldorf Salad: This classic salad combines apples, celery, walnuts, and grapes in a creamy dressing, offering a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with champagne ham.

Mixed Greens with Citrus Vinaigrette: A light and zesty salad made with fresh mixed greens, topped with a citrus vinaigrette, adds a bright, tangy element to your meal, balancing the richness of the ham.

Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: The earthy flavour of beets and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese create a sophisticated pairing. Add some arugula and a simple vinaigrette to complete the dish.

Starches

Scalloped Potatoes: Rich and cheesy, scalloped potatoes are a decadent side that complements the sweetness of the ham. Layer thinly sliced potatoes with cream, cheese, and a touch of nutmeg, then bake until golden and bubbly.

Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty and slightly chewy, wild rice pilaf adds an interesting texture to your plate. Cook the rice with sautéed onions, garlic, and a mix of vegetables for added flavour.

Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy, and buttery, these rolls are perfect for soaking up any delicious juices from the ham. Serve them warm for the best experience.

Fruit Accompaniments

Pineapple Slices: The tropical sweetness of pineapple slices is a classic match for ham. Serve them fresh, grilled, or caramelized for an extra burst of flavour.

Apple Compote: Sweet and slightly tart, apple compote adds a lovely fruitiness that enhances the ham’s flavours. Cook apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice until tender.

Cranberry Sauce: Tangy and sweet, cranberry sauce provides a festive touch and a vibrant contrast to the ham’s subtle sweetness. Use fresh or canned cranberries and add a hint of orange zest for a citrusy kick.

Creating a Balanced Plate

To create the perfect plate, consider how different flavours and textures complement each other. Pairing champagne ham with tangy cranberry sauce, savoury garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted Brussels sprouts provides the perfect contrast with each bite. Don’t underestimate the importance of presentation, especially when it comes to special occasions. Arranging your plate with an eye for colour and composition not only makes the meal visually appealing but also enhances the overall dining experience. 

Conclusion 

Got a special occasion lined up? Don’t just serve champagne ham—make it stand out with the perfect pairings. Experimenting with various wines and sides is a surefire way to transform a simple meal into an unforgettable feast. So grab some champagne ham from Online Meats, channel your inner gourmet, and get creative in the kitchen. Already got a favourite go-to pairing? Share your tips and inspire others in the comments below.