St David's Day Welsh Wine & Perfect Pairings

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus! March the 1st is fast approaching, which means it’s time to celebrate St David’s Day the best way we know how; with incredible Welsh wines and delicious food pairings! Whether you’re cooking up a feast or just fancy an excuse to crack open a bottle, I’ve got the perfect Welsh wine pairings to match classic St David’s Day dishes. Let’s dig in!

Let’s Talk Welsh Wine

Wales might be famous for its rolling hills, stunning coastline, and rich history, but did you know it’s also home to some truly fantastic vineyards? From the lush landscapes of Monmouthshire to the coastal breezes of Pembrokeshire, winemakers across Wales are crafting everything from elegant sparklers to fruity reds. These wines are bursting with character, just like the country itself, so what better time to discover them than St David’s Day? Scroll down to find the best Welsh wines to enjoy this Dydd Gwyl Dewi!

Tasty Welsh Wine & Food Pairings for St David’s Day

Welsh Rarebit & Sparkling Welsh Wine 

This isn’t just cheese on toast, it’s cheese on toast with attitude! The rich, gooey goodness of Welsh rarebit, made with melted cheese, mustard, and ale, is a dream when paired with a crisp Welsh sparkling wine. The bubbles cut through the richness and make every bite even more addictive.

Try with: Ancre Hill Estates Sparkling Blanc de Blanc – Think tart apple, citrus, and plenty of brioche.

Glamorgan Sausages & Welsh White Wine

Glamorgan sausages are basically crispy, cheesy leek croquettes in disguise, no meat in sight! That’s why a zippy white wine works way better than a red. The fresh acidity gives the Caerphilly cheese a little lift, while those green, herby notes play perfectly with the leeks.

Try with: Conwy Solaris White – Crisp, zesty, and packed with notes of peach and elderflower.

Cawl & Welsh a Low Intervention Rosé Wine

A steaming bowl of cawl (aka the ultimate Welsh comfort food) deserves a wine that brings out its hearty goodness. You may not believe it but this fruity Welsh rosé does just that, lifting the slow-cooked lamb and veggies with a fresh burst of red fruit and tangy acidity.

Try with: St Hilary Vineyard Rosé – Refreshing, and packed with spiced cherry, raspberry and plum.

Roast Lamb & Welsh Red

Roast lamb with roasties, veg and gravy = St David’s Day perfection! Add a glass of velvety Welsh red, and you’re onto a winner. The juicy dark fruit, soft tannins and subtle oak in the wine enhance the lamb’s rich flavours while complementing the earthiness in the veg.

Try with: White Castle Vineyard’s Regent – Bold yet silky with notes of rich cherry, liquorice and vanilla. 

Welsh Cakes & Natural Red

This might be a little unconventional, but I dare you to give it a go! Welsh cakes are as versatile as they are delicious, and they become an even bigger treat when paired with a light, low-alcohol natural red. The spiced fruit notes in the wine cosy up to the dried fruit in the cake, while its delicate body keeps things balanced without overwhelming that soft, fluffy texture.

Try with: Tair Gafr Wine’s Gafr Goch Red, 2023 – Think spiced plum, violet, clove and fresh berries.

Bara Brith & Welsh Fortified Wine

Time for pudding! This spiced, tea-soaked fruit loaf is Wales’ answer to fruitcake, but way better! And what makes it even more indulgent? A glass of Welsh fortified wine, especially a small-batch beauty. 

Try with: White Castle’s 1581 Fortified Wine – Rich and luxurious with intense blackberry and bramble flavours.

Bonus pairing: Not much of a sweet tooth? No problem! Swap the cake for a cheeseboard stacked with Wales’ finest artisan cheeses. That port-style wine + cheese combo? Absolute perfection.

Iechyd da!