2026 Lunar New Year
Celebrate the 2026 Year of the Horse with Lucky Lunar New Year Wine Pairings
The 2026 Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, movement, confidence, and bold new beginnings. Traditionally associated with progress, social connection, and momentum, the Year of the Horse invites us to gather, share food, raise a glass, and look ahead with optimism.
At Chaberton Estate Winery, we believe celebration is best enjoyed around the table. To help you welcome the Lunar New Year in style, we’ve paired our award-winning wines with classic Lunar New Year dishes—honouring tradition while embracing modern tastes.
Whether you’re hosting a family feast or sharing a casual meal with friends, these pairings are designed to elevate every bite and sip.
Lucky Dishes & Perfect Pairings
Dumplings
Pan-fried, boiled, or steamed dumplings filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables are a Lunar New Year staple, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
Pair with: Gewürztraminer or Estate Grown Bacchus
Their aromatic profiles complement savoury fillings and dipping sauces beautifully.
Summer Rolls
Light and fresh, with julienned vegetables and shrimp or pork wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce.
Pair with: Chaberton Estate Meritage
A bold yet balanced choice that stands up to the richness of the sauce.
Whole Grilled Red Snapper
Served whole to represent abundance and good fortune, with crispy skin and bright citrus notes.
Pair with: Unoaked Chardonnay
Clean, fresh, and elegant—an ideal match for delicate fish.
Egg Rolls
The classic filling of carrots, celery, cabbage, and pork delivers comforting crunch and savoury depth.
Pair with: Estate Grown Bacchus or CVO
Both offer enough structure and acidity to balance the richness.
Noodles
Long noodles symbolize longevity and are served pan-fried or boiled with vegetables, beef, or sauces—sometimes spicy, sometimes not.
Pair with: Estate Grown Bacchus
For peanut sauce or beef-based versions, the CVO is also a fantastic option.
Wonton Soup
Savory pork wontons in a lightly salted broth, sometimes finished with chili oil for heat.
Pair with: Riesling or Estate Grown Gamay Noir
If spice is added, opt for Riesling or Bacchus to keep things balanced.
Whole Oven-Roasted Chicken
Whole dishes symbolize unity, prosperity, and abundance—perfect for New Year celebrations.
Pair with: Barrel-Aged Chardonnay
A classic pairing that highlights the richness and comfort of this celebratory dish.
Shrimp Stir-Fry
Salty, umami-forward, and endlessly customizable—always best served with rice.
Pair with: Estate Grown Bacchus or Estate Grown Siegerrebe
Aromatic and expressive, these wines enhance the dish without overpowering it.
Sweet Endings for a Sweet Year Ahead
Tang Yuan (Glutinous Rice Balls)
Traditionally enjoyed on the 15th day of Lunar New Year, Tang Yuan symbolizes family unity and togetherness.
Pair with: Siegerrebe Dessert Wine
Its sweetness mirrors the filling—whether classic red bean or modern pistachio or Nutella.
Sweet Rice Cake
Sticky, rich, and indulgent, with countless regional variations.
Pair with: Tribute Fortified Dessert Wine
Full-bodied and luxurious, it’s the perfect finale to a festive meal.
Raise a Glass to New Beginnings
As the Year of the Horse brings momentum, connection, and fresh starts, we invite you to celebrate with wines crafted right here in the Fraser Valley. Whether you’re honouring tradition or creating new ones, Chaberton Estate Winery has a bottle for every moment.
Visit our tasting room, shop online, or plan your Lunar New Year gathering with us today. Let’s welcome 2026 together—one meaningful toast at a time.
Xīnnián hǎo!
Gong hei fat choy!
Happy Lunar New Year! 🧧🍷
