Iconic Meals (and what I’d pair with them): A Christmas Story’s Peking Duck Scene (yeah, that one)
Let’s get into the nostalgic world of A Christmas Story, a holiday classic that has us all quoting, "You'll shoot your eye out!" Directed by Bob Clark, the film takes us back to the simpler times of Ralphie Parker's childhood and his quest for the ultimate Christmas gift. Amidst the chaos of leg lamps and Red Ryder BB guns, there's a scene that adds a touch of humor and culinary curiosity – the Parker family's misadventure with a Chinese roasted duck. Overlooking the blatant racism in this scene (yeah, it’s gross, but I digress), we can still appreciate the festive spirit and quirky charm it brings to the holiday table.
The Scene
The Parker family, primed for disaster in the kitchen, finds themselves in a Chinese restaurant on Christmas Day. As the waiter presents the pièce de résistance – a whole roasted duck with its glossy, lacquered skin – the Parkers' faces light up in a mixture of confusion and delight. The scene captures the essence of unexpected holiday joy and the spirit of embracing new traditions. Do I cringe and watch this scene with hands over my eyes? Yes.
The Wines: Kabinett Riesling, Clare Valley Shiraz and Pinot Noir
When it comes to pairing with the Chinese roasted duck of A Christmas Story, three wines step up to the plate – Kabinett Riesling, Clare Valley Shiraz, and Pinot Noir - a different adventure for each.
A Kabinett Riesling, with its off-dry profile and zesty acidity, is like a burst of holiday cheer in a glass. The wine's crispness cuts through the richness of the duck, providing a refreshing counterpoint to its succulent flavors. The subtle sweetness of the Riesling complements the crispy, fatty, lacquered skin, creating a harmonious balance that dances on the taste buds. My pick? Riesling Kabinett Trocken “Saumagen”, Koehler-Ruprecht, 2021 (post to come about decoding German wine labels because, I too, only understand “Riesling”).
Next, a riper Shiraz from Clare Valley, Australia, adds a bold and spicy character to the festivities. The wine's robust profile stands up to the flavorful duck, enhancing the experience with notes of blackberry, pepper, and a hint of smokiness. It's like a flavorful twist to the holiday tale, turning a simple dinner into a feast fit for a celebration. Taylor’s Estate Shiraz from Clare Valley is a prime example, but I am partial to Penfolds and their 2021 Bin 28 Shiraz where the grapes hail from five different regions - McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Padthaway, Wrattonbully and Clare Valley.
Lastly, the tried and true option of Pinot Noir. This versatile red wine, with its silky texture and red fruit notes, is like a reliable friend at ANY holiday table. Its elegance complements the roasted duck without overpowering it, allowing the dish's flavors to shine. The wine's subtle earthiness adds depth to each bite, creating a pairing that's both classic and comforting, much like the warmth of a Christmas story by the fire. Perhaps a California Pinot Noir from down South, like Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, 2022 or a Willamette Valley Pinot Noir like Illahe’s Percheron Pinot Noir 2020.
Whether you choose Kabinett Riesling, Clare Valley Shiraz, or Pinot Noir, each wine brings its own twist to the holiday tale, turning a simple meal into a memorable celebration. Cheers to a Happy Holiday to you and yours - may it be full of great food and great wine!!
