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Choose correct wine to complement meal

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  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 13:47 GMT by Cleveland Jewish News
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Choosing the Right Wine to Complement Your Rosh Hashanah Meal

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is steeped in symbolism—an apple dipped in honey, a round challah, a fragrant bouquet of incense, and, of course, a celebratory glass of wine. For many families, the wine is not just a drink; it’s the finishing flourish that ties together the traditions and flavors that mark the holiday. In a recent feature in the Cleveland Jewish News titled “Choose the Correct Wine to Complement Meal,” editor and culinary correspondent Marika Sullivan dives into the practicalities of wine selection, pairing tips, and the deeper spiritual meaning behind the wine chosen for this auspicious occasion.

The Tradition of the Rosh Hashanah Toast

The article opens with a gentle reminder of why wine is such a pivotal part of Rosh Hashanah: the blessing (Birkat Hamazon) and the “L’chaim” toast. Sullivan recounts a conversation with Rabbi Shlomo Hyman of Temple B’nai Brach in Cleveland, who explained that the wine used in the Kiddush “must be kosher, of good quality, and reflective of the joy of the day.” Rabbi Hyman notes that “the way a wine tastes, the way it carries itself, can subtly influence the mood of the entire meal.” The article then segues into the core of the piece: how to choose a wine that is both kosher and a good match for the foods you’ll serve.

Pairing Wine with the Classic Rosh Hashanah Menu

The Cleveland Jewish News article breaks down pairing suggestions by dish, offering a “menu‑by‑menu” guide that readers can copy and paste into their grocery lists. Below are some of the key pairings highlighted:

Sullivan stresses that “the goal is harmony, not overpowering.” In particular, she recommends a sparkling wine for the final dessert course so that the palate isn’t left feeling heavy after the sweet foods. She also advises readers to consider the acidity of the wine—higher acidity pairs well with richer dishes, while lower acidity feels more relaxed with lighter fare.

Practical Tips for Buying and Storing Rosh Hashanah Wine

The article is quick to turn into a shopping guide, with a few “gotchas” readers should avoid:

1. Kosher Certification: The wine must carry a reliable kosher symbol, typically a hechsher from a trustworthy authority such as the Vaad of the local synagogue or the Rabbi of the Federation of Cleveland Jews. Sullivan includes a brief comparison of the most common kosher wine labels.

2. Quantity: The piece offers a rule of thumb—one bottle per 4–5 people, plus an extra for guests or to use as a dessert wine. For larger families or communal celebrations, double the number.

3. Temperature: Most white and sparkling wines should be chilled at 45–50 °F; red wines at 60–65 °F. The article notes that many Cleveland families use a wine fridge or a cooler with ice packs to keep the wines at the right temperature.

4. Serving Order: Start with lighter wines and move to richer ones as the meal progresses. This prevents the palate from being overwhelmed early on.

Linking to Local Resources

The article references two other Cleveland Jewish News features that give readers even deeper insight:

• “Rosh Hashanah Dinner Planner” – This companion article offers a printable menu layout, a grocery list organized by kosher and non‑kosher items, and a timeline for meal prep. The link (https://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/features/holidays/rosh_hashanah/rosh_hashanah-dinner-planner/article_e8f6c2b6-7c7c-4f4b-9c2b-5a6b3c9d4f6e.html) directs readers to a table that aligns wine pairings with specific courses, making it easier to decide which bottle goes with each dish.

• “The Art of Making Kosher Wine” – An in‑depth look at how local wineries produce kosher wine in Cleveland. The article (https://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/features/holidays/rosh_hashanah/the-art-of-making-kosher-wine/article_9c1e5b3b-6d4a-4e9f-9a2b-3f5b6d4a7b8e.html) provides a behind‑the‑scenes tour of a Cleveland winery, explaining the fermentation process, the role of the mashgiach, and the importance of ensuring that no non‑kosher additives are introduced. The feature includes an interview with the winemaker, who emphasizes the “balance of sweetness and acidity” that is critical for kosher wines used on holidays.

Sullivan also shares a link to a local wine tasting event, “Wine & Passover,” where patrons can sample kosher wines and learn how to pair them with holiday foods. The link (https://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/events/wine_and_passover.html) gives details on dates, times, and the types of wines on offer—especially those that will be highlighted during the upcoming Rosh Hashanah.

Expert Opinions

Throughout the article, Sullivan pulls in a variety of voices. She quotes Chef Eli Goldstein of the restaurant Maccabi who says, “When you’re cooking a dish that’s heavy on garlic and herbs, like a roast lamb, a slightly sweet white can actually cut through the oiliness.” He recommends a Sauternes or a Riesling Kabinett as a surprisingly harmonious choice.

Rabbi Hyman also appears to underline the spiritual dimension: “Wine isn’t merely about flavor. It’s a symbol of joy, a reminder that the coming year is filled with abundance.” His words echo the sentiment of many Jews who view the wine as a tangible link between the physical and the divine.

Conclusion: Making the Moment Memorable

Sullivan wraps up the article by encouraging readers to see the wine as an integral part of the Rosh Hashanah story. “Pick a bottle that tells a story—whether it’s the crispness of a chilled Riesling that echoes the sweetness of apples, or the smooth tannins of a Cabernet that echo the richness of roasted meats.” She adds, “The key is balance: a wine that complements your dish, that meets kosher standards, and that brings a sense of celebration to your table.”

For those who want a deeper dive, the article’s links lead to comprehensive guides on kosher wine production and a printable Rosh Hashanah dinner planner. Together, these resources empower families to make informed, thoughtful choices that honor tradition and delight the senses.

In a world where the “perfect” wine can seem like a daunting quest, the Cleveland Jewish News article demystifies the process, providing a clear roadmap to a memorable, joyous, and spiritually uplifting Rosh Hashanah celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a first‑time celebrant, the guidance here is an invaluable tool for ensuring that your holiday toast is as resonant as the prayers you’ll recite.