Lunar New Year is a vibrant celebration filled with rich cultural traditions, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. Festivities mark the beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar and involve many carefully selected symbols of renewal, prosperity, and good fortune. In 2026, hosts are increasingly looking for ways to honor tradition while elevating the dining experience. Thoughtful wine pairings can enhance classic Lunar New Year dishes without overshadowing their cultural significance.
The Significance of Togetherness
At the heart of Lunar New Year is the spirit of togetherness. Families come together to honor ancestors, share stories, and create lasting memories. Inviting both immediate family and dear friends to join together for a lavish meal is a cherished tradition. Pairing your meal with the right wines can enhance the flavors of the dishes and create a more enjoyable experience.
Traditional Foods for Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year meals are often filled with symbolic dishes that represent prosperity, happiness, and good luck. Here are some traditional foods you might consider, along with wine pairings that elevate the celebrations.
1 – Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Symbolism: Traditionally one of the most iconic Lunar New Year foods, dumplings are shaped like ancient Chinese gold ingots to symbolize wealth and prosperity.
Wine Pairing: Riesling
A slightly sweet (medium dry) Riesling is a fantastic match for dumplings whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. The wine’s crisp acidity and fruity notes balance the savory flavors of the dumpling filling. Dumplings are often filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables, which make them an excellent choice for varied dietary preferences.
2 – Fish (Yú)
Symbolism: The word for fish sounds like “surplus” in Mandarin, making it an essential Lunar New Year dish. Serving fish during Lunar New Year is a symbol of surplus and abundance.
Wine Pairing: Dry Muscat
Pair your fish dish with a unique and refreshing dry Muscat. Its summer stone fruit flavors and floral notes complement the delicate flavors of steamed or grilled fish to enhance the dish while keeping the palate refreshed.
3 – Noodles (Changshou Mian)
Symbolism: Long noodles symbolize longevity and a long life. (Psst…don’t cut the noodles! Long noodles are served to symbolize a long, vibrant life.)
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay
For noodle dishes, such as stir-fried noodles or noodle soup, a Chardonnay works beautifully. An oaked Chardonnay will offer a buttery texture and fruitiness that pair very well with the savory flavors of the dish, especially if it includes chicken or seafood.
4 – Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)
Symbolism: Golden, crispy spring rolls represent wealth.
Wine Pairing: Sparkling Wine
Nearly all celebrations are elevated with a glass of sparkling wine, but even more so when paired with savory, fried nibbles. The effervescence cuts through the richness of the fried spring rolls and complements the fresh flavors of dipping sauces.
5 – Sticky Rice Cake (Nian Gao)
Symbolism: Growth, progress, and a better year ahead. Sweet and chewy, Nian Gao is often enjoyed as a dessert or celebratory treat.
Wine Pairing: Late Harvest or Dessert Wine
Pair this sweet dish with a late harvest wine or dessert wine, such as a Sauternes. The wine’s natural sweetness will beautifully balance the chewy texture and sweet flavors of the rice cake.
Creating a Memorable Atmosphere
The Lunar New Year is not only about the food; it’s also about the atmosphere. Create a warm and inviting environment to encourage togetherness. Here are some tips:
- Decorate with Red: Red is a color of luck and happiness in Chinese culture. Use red decorations, lanterns, and table settings to create a festive ambiance.
- Gather Around One Table: Encourage everyone to share stories and laughter over the meal. This creates a sense of connection and joy.
- Mindful Drinking: As you enjoy your wine pairings, take a moment to appreciate the flavors and the company. Raise a toast to new beginnings and shared experiences.
Pairing wine with Lunar New Year dishes is not about replacing tradition. It thoughtfully enhances the celebration with wine and food pairings add to the festivities while honoring cultural significance. Be sure to select the wines intentionally to complement the traditional dishes on the table. Remember, the essence of Lunar New Year lies in togetherness, so gather your family and friends, share stories, and enjoy the delicious food and wine that symbolize prosperity and joy. Cheers!
Updated 1/14/2026
April Abate is a wine educator who loves helping people feel confident about what is in their glass. She is a Certified Specialist of Wine through the Society of Wine Educators and a Certified Executive Sommelier with the International Wine and Spirits Guild. With a diverse background in microbiology, education, hospitality, and sales, April brings science, clarity, and heart to her discussions about wine. Her goal is simple: to make wine more approachable by helping tasters understand not just what they like, but why they like it. For the past seven years, April has been part of the team at Brooks Wine in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley, sharing her passion for wines that tell a story of place and purpose. Drafting and refinement were supported by digital assistant software.