João Paulo Gama, from Cantu Grupo Wine, selects Brazilian and French bottles to pair with festive meals this holiday season.
As year-end celebrations approach, the sound of popping corks sets the mood for festive gatherings. To help mark these moments with elegance, sommelier João Paulo Gama from Cantu Grupo Wine has selected four sparkling wines and champagne that perfectly accompany every course, from appetizers to desserts.
To start the evening
Light and vibrant sparkling wines pair beautifully with canapés and starters. The French Calvet Celebration Brut, produced by Calvet using the Charmat method, offers aromas of peach, citrus fruits, and white flowers. From Brazil’s Vale do São Francisco, Maraví Brut Branco has citrus and creamy notes, fine bubbles, and bright freshness. Both are ideal with ceviche, light salads or codfish fritters.
Main course pairings
For heartier dishes like roasted meats or salted cod, Gama suggests the Lanson Le Black Label Brut, an iconic Champagne from the Lanson house, founded in 1760. Crafted from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier, it combines elegance, freshness, and fine perlage—an excellent match for turkey, lamb, lentils, and festive dishes.
The sweet finish
For dessert, Maraví Moscatel stands out for its floral and fruit aromas balanced by delicate sweetness. Produced in Brazil’s sunny northeast, it pairs harmoniously with panettone, rabanadas, and fruit-based sweets, closing the celebration on a light, refreshing note.
“A good sparkling or champagne brings joy to every moment of the evening — from starter to dessert,” says João Gama.
About Cantu Grupo Wine
With 21 years of experience in the wine industry, Cantu Grupo Wine operates in over 15,000 retail points across Brazil, offering more than 400 labels from 14 countries. The company is the exclusive distributor of the Entre Dois Mundos winery, part of the Wine Group, recognized for bringing premium brands and international producers to the Brazilian market. More information: cantugrupowine.com.br.
Photo: Divulgação / Cantu Grupo Wine
