HOUSTON – When it comes to holiday hosting, a beautiful spread doesn’t have to break the bank - and Aldi proves it. This season, the store’s Winter Seasonal Collection is packed with more than 400 festive food and drink options, including over 60 wines (most under $13!) and more than 20 specialty cheeses (most under $6).
Aldi Certified Wine Specialist Arlin Zajmi joined Houston Life to share three delicious pairings that turn classic comfort dishes - even Texas favorites - into elegant holiday moments. Whether you’re entertaining a full house or keeping things cozy at home, these combos deliver big flavor on a budget.
Let’s dive into the magic of sipping, snacking, and saving.
🧀 Parmigiano Reggiano + Specially Selected Gavi
Bright, crisp, and perfect for holiday appetizers!
Start your hosting off with something universally loved: Parmigiano Reggiano. Aldi’s version is nutty, salty, and beautifully aged - the kind of cheese that instantly upgrades any appetizer board.
But Zajmi’s favorite way to use it during the holidays? Shaved over warm Texas toast.
Think melty, buttery, crunchy goodness… then add a shower of Parm for that rich, savory finish.
Pair it with the Specially Selected Gavi, a bright and crisp white wine that cuts through the richness with refreshing citrusy notes. It’s clean, it’s elegant, and together they create an appetizer moment that feels far fancier than the price tag suggests.
Why it works:
- Gavi lifts buttery dishes
- Parmigiano adds depth and texture
- Together: effortless holiday sophistication for under $25
🍒 1000 Day Gouda + Florility Organic Pinot Noir
A cozy, crowd-pleasing pairing for celebrations.
Love a lighter red? Aldi’s Florility Organic Pinot Noir is beautifully fruit-forward with notes of cherry, red plum, and a whisper of earthiness. It’s the kind of wine that feels festive without overwhelming your palate.
Zajmi pairs it with Aldi’s 1000 Day Gouda, a cheese that’s creamy, caramel-y, nutty, and deeply comforting. It melts like a dream — especially in queso. That’s right… holiday queso just got elevated.
Add a scoop of this Gouda to your next batch and watch how it transforms the flavor with richness and warmth.
Why it works:
- Pinot Noir’s bright fruit balances Gouda’s caramel notes
- The cheese adds creamy structure
- A show-stopping combo for red wine fans
🌶️ Vintage English Cheddar + Fuzion Cabernet Sauvignon
A bold pairing for cold nights and comfort dishes.
When temperatures drop - even here in Houston - there’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili or a hearty winter dish. Aldi’s Fuzion Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied, vibrant, and ready to stand up to big flavors.
Zajmi pairs it with the Emporium Selection Vintage English Cheddar, a deeply savory cheese with sharpness, nuttiness, and all the complexity you want in a cold-weather comfort food moment.
A scoop of this cheddar stirred into chili adds the perfect finishing touch - and the Cab’s bold character complements everything from slow-cooked beef to chili spices.
Why it works:
- Cab’s richness enhances hearty dishes
- Cheddar adds sharp depth
- Together: a cozy, winter-perfect pairing
🎄 The Aldi Winter Seasonal Collection: A Holiday Treasure Trove
Along with these pairings, Aldi shoppers can explore more than 400 seasonal items, including:
- Over 60 wines (most under $13)
- More than 20 specialty cheeses (most under $6)
- Limited-edition snacks, treats, and entertaining staples
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, planning a Friendsgiving, or adding a little flair to weeknight meals, Aldi has everything you need to create festive moments without stretching your budget.
🛒 Plan Your Holiday Table
Visit aldi.us to explore the full Winter Seasonal Collection and find your nearest Houston area location.
Cheers to a delicious, stress-free, and beautifully paired holiday season!