A Toast to the New Year: Italian Wine, Liquor, and Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, isn’t just about dipping apples in honey—it’s about renewal, reflection, and, let’s be honest, the feast that follows. At Arthur Cantina, we like to think of it as the perfect time to stock the table with bottles that not only honor tradition but also elevate it. Because if you’re going to welcome in a sweet new year, why not do it with something remarkable in your glass?

Wine as Tradition, Wine as Blessing

Wine has always held a sacred place in Jewish ritual—Kiddush over the cup is a cornerstone of the holiday meal. Italian wine, with its deep roots in ancient vineyards and family traditions, feels like a natural pairing. A glass of Barolo or Brunello on Rosh Hashanah? That’s not just wine—it’s a bridge between cultures that both hold family, faith, and the dinner table at the center of life.

Think about the symbolism: apples dipped in honey for sweetness, pomegranates for abundance, and wine for joy. Italian wine brings layers of richness that play beautifully with holiday staples—crisp whites like Pinot Grigio alongside fish, bold reds like Chianti with brisket or lamb. The sweetness of Moscato? A natural companion to honey cake and desserts.

Liquor and L’Chaim

Of course, no celebration is complete without raising a glass to life itself—L’Chaim! That’s where liquor comes in. Whether it’s a fine grappa to close the meal, a pour of amaro to settle the stomach, or even bourbon for the adventurous, spirits provide the punctuation mark to the holiday feast. And in true Arthur Cantina fashion, we always recommend something rare, something meaningful—bottles that tell a story, just like the holiday does.

Shared Values, Shared Tables

Italian and Jewish cultures may not share the same holy days, but both share a devotion to food, family, and heritage. Both know that the best way to mark an occasion is around a crowded table with a bottle (or three). In that sense, an Italian wine or a carefully chosen spirit doesn’t just pair with Rosh Hashanah—it belongs there.

So this year, when the shofar blows and the table fills, raise your glass with intention. May your year be as bold as Barolo, as sweet as Moscato, and as smooth as aged grappa.

Shanah Tovah. Cheers. Cin cin.