Best Wine Pairings for Ham

A honey-baked or brown sugar-glazed ham pairs well with a slightly off-dry Riesling, which has bright acidity and a touch of sweetness to balance the ham's saltiness and glaze. For a red option, Zinfandel offers ripe fruit flavors and a hint of spice that enhances the dish's sweet and savory elements.

Smoked ham has a deep, rich flavor that calls for a light to medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir, which offers bright red fruit and earthy undertones that complement the smokiness without overwhelming it. If you prefer white wine, Chenin Blanc, with its crisp acidity and subtle fruitiness, is a refreshing match.

For ham prepared with herbs, garlic, or mustard, Chardonnay (especially lightly oaked styles) is a great choice, as its round texture and citrus notes enhance the flavors. If you prefer red, Grenache provides soft tannins and red berry flavors that pair nicely with herbaceous seasoning.

Saltier, dry-cured country ham is best paired with sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco, as the wine's acidity and bubbles cut through the salt and fat, refreshing the palate. A dry rosé also works well, offering fruitiness and structure to balance the ham's bold, salty flavors.

If your ham is served with a fruit-based sauce like pineapple, cherry, or cranberry, Gewürztraminer is an excellent white wine choice, as its aromatic, slightly sweet character enhances the fruit flavors. For red wine lovers, Beaujolais is a light-bodied, juicy red that pairs beautifully with fruit-forward dishes.