Swedish Midsummer, or "Midsommar," is one of the most cherished and traditional celebrations in Sweden. It marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and is a time to welcome the warmth and light of summer after the long, dark winter.
HOW TO CELEBRATE MIDSUMMER
The festivities include dancing around the maypole, enjoying a feast of herring, new potatoes, and strawberries, and spending time with family and friends in the beautiful outdoors. Midsummer is a celebration of nature, renewal, and community, deeply rooted in Swedish culture and history.
THE MIDSUMMER FOOD
HOW TO CELEBRATE MIDSUMMER
The festivities include dancing around the maypole, enjoying a feast of herring, new potatoes, and strawberries, and spending time with family and friends in the beautiful outdoors. Midsummer is a celebration of nature, renewal, and community, deeply rooted in Swedish culture and history.
THE MIDSUMMER FOOD
Choosing the best wine for a traditional Swedish Midsummer meal can be challenging since the meal often consists of a variety of dishes with different flavors. Here are some recommendations that pair well with the typical dishes on the Midsummer table:
1. Herring and New Potatoes:
- White Wine: A crisp and acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling pairs excellently with the salty and tangy flavors of herring.
- Alternative: A lighter wine like Grüner Veltliner or a dry Muscadet can also work well.
2. Gravlax and Salmon:
- White Wine: A Chardonnay, preferably with a bit of oak character, pairs well with the rich and oily texture of gravlax.
- Rosé Wine: A fresh and fruity rosé wine can be an excellent alternative for both gravlax and fresh seafood.
3. Meatballs and Sausages:
- Red Wine: A lighter red wine like Pinot Noir or a fruity Beaujolais works well with the milder flavors of meatballs and sausages.
- Rosé Wine: A more robust rosé can also work here, especially if the food is served cold.
4. Cheese and Crispbread:
- White Wine: A richer white Burgundy (Chardonnay) or a dry Riesling pairs well with Swedish hard cheeses.
- Red Wine: A lighter and acidic red wine like a young Barbera can complement the saltiness of the cheese and the crispness of the bread.
5. Strawberries with Cream:
- Sparkling Wine: A fresh and light sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava is a classic choice with strawberries.
- Sweet Wine: A sweet Moscato d'Asti can also be an excellent choice for the sweet end to the meal.
By choosing wines that have a good balance of acidity and fruitiness, and that can complement the different flavors of the dishes, you can create a harmonious and enjoyable dining experience on Midsummer's Eve.
