Holidays Food and Wine Pairing with Nicole

The Start of an Unexpected Journey

Nicole’s story is a fascinating blend of art, passion, and a deeply rooted love for storytelling. Unlike many in the wine industry who grew up with wine as a family tradition, Nicole’s path was different. Her early years were spent immersed in the world of dance—a world where creativity, emotion, and movement defined her. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from the University of Buffalo, Nicole spent years performing on cruise liners, at Walt Disney World, and even touring in Japan and Taiwan. She had always been a storyteller, but as she approached her 30s, her life began to take an unexpected turn.

A Shift in Focus: From Fashion to Wine

While seeking stability in New York City after meeting her husband, Nicole transitioned into the fashion industry, working in luxury retail and corporate roles. However, her creative spirit felt stifled. The sense of artistry she had once thrived on in dance was missing. It was during a trip to Napa Valley in 2014 that she found a new passion—wine.

Nicole vividly recalls her first experience in Napa during harvest season. The art and science of winemaking captivated her, revealing wine as more than just a drink but a narrative rich with culture, history, and place. This revelation inspired her to dive deeper into the world of wine.

Grape Chic and the Wine Journey

Upon returning to New York, Nicole began exploring the city’s vibrant wine scene, attending tastings and gradually immersing herself in wine education. In 2017, she launched her blog Grape Chic, where she documented her wine journey and shared recommendations. Alongside her blog, she pursued certifications through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), balancing her studies and blogging with a full-time career in fashion. The turning point came in 2020 when Nicole joined Château de Pommard full-time, bringing her unique perspective and passion for storytelling to our estate.

Holidays with Wine: Tradition, Taste and Fun

For Nicole, the holiday season is a time for family and exceptional wine. Her husband and she typically spend the holidays in the U.S., often visiting family in Philadelphia. As wine enthusiasts, they always bring along a “wine suitcase” filled with eight bottles of their favorite selections. 

Nicole is particularly fond of Château de Pommard’s Monopole vintages from 2015, 2016, and 2017, which she enjoys pairing with holiday meals : “For the holidays, I always bring out our Monopole wines.” The 2015, 2016, and 2017 vintages are in a great place right now, each offering something unique. The 2015 has more earthy, mushroom notes, the 2016 still feels fresh with a hint of tertiary character, and the 2017 is elegant, floral, and aromatic. A vertical tasting with family would be such a fun way to enjoy them.

“My husband loves the 2017—it’s ready to drink, versatile with both vegetables and meats, and has a lovely mineral finish. For my brother-in-law and sister-in-law, who prefer fuller-bodied wines, we’ll likely bring a richer 2018 Chantrerie or Nicolas-Joseph.

We also love doing blind tastings for fun. I’m sure my husband will challenge me with a few wines—it’s always tricky, but I think I’d get most of them right!”

Crafting Elegant Pairings with Nature’s Bounty

For Nicole, one guiding principle shines through in the art of food and wine pairing: “What grows together, goes together.” She believes that local vegetables and agricultural products grown alongside the vines create a natural synergy that enhances both the wine and the dish. Discovering congruent pairings is essential for her; “If I notice earthy notes in a Pinot Noir, I’ll seek something savory and earthy in the food to complement that.” 

Yet, she also loves to challenge conventions with high-low pairings, such as enjoying a fine Burgundy with a classic burger or fried chicken. “The wine should enhance the food, and the food should make the wine better,” she explains. This is especially crucial during Thanksgiving: “A big, bold Napa Cab can easily overpower delicate turkey. Instead, a lighter Pinot Noir complements the meal without stealing the spotlight.” Through her insights, Nicole reminds us that wine pairing is a delightful journey of exploration, where every bottle and dish tells a unique story.

Burgundy: The Pinnacle of Terroir and Sustainability

Nicole considers Burgundy to be the ultimate standard of excellence in the wine world, largely due to its emphasis on terroir-driven wines. She admires the region’s rich history, where centuries-old parcels of land have been meticulously identified for producing superior wines. Although Burgundy’s exclusivity and small production often result in high prices, Nicole believes the quality and history behind the wines justify the cost. Nicole observes a growing shift in consumer expectations, particularly regarding sustainability in wine. “People are increasingly interested in sustainable practices; it’s now the minimum requirement,” she notes. At Château de Pommard, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a commitment. “Here, we work in sync with nature, avoiding chemicals and embracing biodynamic farming to create vibrant wines that truly reflect the terroir,” Nicole explains. This dedication ensures that each bottle not only tastes exceptional but is also better for the environment and those who enjoy it.

Advice for Wine Newcomers: Taste, Taste, Taste

For those just starting their wine journey, Nicole’s advice is simple: tasting is key. The more you taste, the better you’ll understand the unique characteristics of different wines, particularly from regions like Burgundy. She also recommends wine education programs such as the WSET and encourages wine enthusiasts to attend tastings whenever possible. For the ultimate education, though, nothing beats visiting the wine regions themselves.

A Lifelong Passion for Wine and Good Time Family Gathering

Nicole’s transition from dancer to wine expert was neither quick nor straightforward, but it was fueled by her passion for artistic expression. Today, she finds fulfillment in the world of wine—a place where storytelling, culture, and creativity come together. Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, the best stories come from the most unexpected places, and wine, like dance, has the power to move and inspire.

Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a glass of wine, Nicole encourages everyone to embrace the season. “Holidays are the perfect time to slow down, enjoy heartwarming meals, and sip wines that bring out the beauty in both the food and the moment.”