Glazed Ham and Wine for Your Christmas Feast
 

Choose the Right Ham

• Opt for a bone-in ham for maximum flavor.
• Pre-cooked or cured hams are the most common and easiest to work with.

The Glaze

• Classic Honey Glaze: A mix of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of cinnamon.
• Spiced Orange Glaze: Made with orange juice, zest, and warm spices like cloves and nutmeg.
• Maple and Bourbon Glaze: A combination of maple syrup and a splash of bourbon for a smoky, rich flavor.

Cooking Tips

1. Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate.
2. Apply the glaze multiple times during baking for a sticky, caramelized crust.
3. Roast at 160°C (fan) or 180°C (conventional) for 15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 63°C.

Let It Rest

• Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving to retain its juices.

Schloss Johannisberg Gelblack Riesling Trocken Rheingau 2023

A delicious just Trocken (dry) Riesling from the legendary Schloss Johannisberg.

Why It Works: This Riesling has bright acidity and a touch of sweetness, which balances the sweet glaze and cuts through the savory richness of the ham. The citrus and stone fruit flavors will enhance the caramelized glaze.

Tasting notes:

• Appearance: Pale straw yellow with greenish hues, reflecting its youthful vibrancy.
• Aroma: Intense citrus notes of lemon and lime, complemented by ripe peach, green apple, and a touch of floral and mineral undertones.
• Palate: Bright and zesty with a balanced sweetness. Flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and wet stone minerality dominate, followed by a crisp, clean finish.

Serving Recommendation: Serve chilled at 8-10°C. This temperature highlights its fresh and vibrant character, making it perfect for pairing with ham’s sweet glaze.

Price: £25.95

Ramón Bilbao Rioja Edición Limitada Garnacha 2020

A delicious just Trocken (dry) Riesling from the legendary Schloss Johannisberg.

Why It Works: The Garnacha's medium body and red berry notes provide a fruity and slightly spicy profile that complements both the ham’s sweetness and its salty, savory aspects. The wine’s soft tannins ensure it doesn’t overpower the dish.

Tasting notes:

• Appearance: Medium ruby red with violet highlights, indicating its youthful Garnacha character.
• Aroma: Aromas of ripe red berries like cherry and raspberry, with hints of spice, vanilla, and subtle earthy undertones.
• Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied with vibrant red fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a delicate spiciness. The finish is long and balanced, with a touch of smokiness.

Serving Recommendation: Serve slightly below room temperature at 14-16°C. Decanting for 20-30 minutes before serving will allow the wine’s fruity and spicy notes to open up fully.

Price: £17.95

Whispering Angel Rosé 2021

A delicious just Trocken (dry) Riesling from the legendary Schloss Johannisberg.

Why It Works: A crisp and dry rosé like Whispering Angel is refreshing and versatile, with bright acidity and delicate berry flavors. It pairs well with the diverse flavours of glazed ham and its accompanying sides.

Tasting notes:

• Appearance: Medium ruby red with violet highlights, indicating its youthful Garnacha character.
• Aroma: Aromas of ripe red berries like cherry and raspberry, with hints of spice, vanilla, and subtle earthy undertones.
• Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied with vibrant red fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a delicate spiciness. The finish is long and balanced, with a touch of smokiness.

Serving Recommendation: Serve slightly below room temperature at 14-16°C. Decanting for 20-30 minutes before serving will allow the wine’s fruity and spicy notes to open up fully.

Price: £17.95