If you are looking to shake up your holiday meals with some new cocktails or wine varietals that you and your guests may have not paired before, then we've got you covered. Colleen Graham, About's guide to cocktails offers her initial thoughts on pairing drinks with a variety of holiday dinner favorites based on menu items from Linda Larsen, About's guide for Busy Cooks.

Cocktail Pairing Suggestioins

Holiday dinners are a great time to explore new cocktails, especially before and after the meal. Aperitifs like the Fabiola, Imperial and Paradise are not only warming and perfect for the winter season, but will also prepare your appetite for the large meal to come no matter what the main course is. After dinner, you'll want to save room for dessert and drinks like the French Connection and Liquid Bourbon Ball are light enough that they will not fill you up and are a great match for any style of pie. However, for the ultimate indulgence creamy cocktails like the minty Holiday Hopper and the delectable Raspberry Truffle are perfect.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Christmas dinners are a great time to try new wines with favorite recipes of old. Will it be ham, turkey, goose or prime rib? If you are looking for new wine options to complement your holiday meal, then look no further, here is a terrific selection of versatile whites and reds that are sure to enhance your Christmas gathering, varietals picked for both their presence and adaptability.