The Heart of a Southern Holiday
There’s something magical about the way the South gathers around the table during the holidays. It’s not just about the food — it’s about family, community, and cherished traditions passed down through generations. As they say, “If it’s not on a Southern Christmas table, is it really Christmas?”
At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, we know what makes a Southern holiday meal unforgettable. This year, we’re raising a glass to Alabama flavor and tradition. Whether you’re preparing a full spread or contributing a dish to a potluck, we’ve curated perfect drink pairings — wines, beers, and more — to complement every bite.
Support local flavor — every bottle tells a story from right here in Alabama. Looking to go deeper into this season’s top bottles? Don’t miss our latest feature on specialty wines and festive brews.
Brown Sugar & Honey Glazed Baked Ham (The Southern Showstopper)
If there’s one dish that defines a Southern holiday meal, it’s a beautifully glazed baked ham — golden, caramelized, and worthy of its place at the center of the table. This recipe has been passed down and perfected in Southern kitchens for generations, and it’s a favorite across Birmingham for good reason.
Make your holiday feast unforgettable with this brown sugar and honey glazed spiral ham — a Southern classic that’s rich, tender, and ready to impress. Available now at Piggly Wiggly Birmingham.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole bone-in spiral ham (8–10 lbs), fully cooked
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup local honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Optional: orange slices and whole cloves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham flat-side down in a large roasting pan lined with foil. Score the surface in a diamond pattern to help the glaze soak in. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour. - Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat. - Glaze and Bake
After the initial bake, remove foil from the ham and brush generously with the glaze. Return to oven uncovered. Continue baking for another 30–40 minutes, glazing every 10–15 minutes, until the exterior is golden and caramelized. - Rest and Serve
Let the ham rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with orange slices or whole cloves for a festive touch.
This ham pairs perfectly with classic Southern sides like cornbread dressing, sweet potato casserole, and braised greens — all of which you can find fresh or ready-to-make at your local Piggly Wiggly Birmingham. And the leftovers? Even better the next day.
Perfect Wine Pairings for Every Southern Dish
Choosing the right wine enhances every bite — and it doesn’t have to be complicated. These pairings bring out the best in your holiday favorites:
Baked Ham
- Off-dry Riesling, Zinfandel, or Rosé balance the ham’s sweet glaze and smoky notes.
Turkey & Trimmings
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Sparkling Wine complement turkey’s mild flavor and classic holiday herbs.
Mac & Cheese
- Try Gamay or Chenin Blanc to cut through the richness without overpowering the dish.
Greens with Smoked Meat
- Go bold with Malbec, Syrah, or an oaked Chardonnay to stand up to those smoky flavors.
Pecan Pie
- Pair it with Port, Madeira, or a sweet Alabama Muscadine wine for the perfect sweet finish.
Wine pairing made easy — find our shelf tags in-store for a perfect match.
Craft Beer Pairings with a Southern Twist
Alabama’s craft beer scene is rich with options to elevate your holiday meal. Here’s what pairs perfectly:
Main Dishes (Ham & Turkey)
- Brown Ale, Amber Ale, or Belgian Tripel bring malty depth and spice.
Mac & Cheese
- A crisp Pale Ale or classic Pilsner refreshes the palate between creamy bites.
Sweet Potatoes
- Look for Winter Ale or Pumpkin Beer if available — perfect for those sweet, spiced notes.
Desserts
- A Milk Stout, Porter, or even a warming Barleywine makes a decadent end to your meal.
Seasonal & Alternative Beverage Options
For All Ages & Preferences
Not every celebration includes alcohol — and that’s just fine. These options keep everyone included:
- Buffalo Rock Ginger Ale — a Birmingham favorite with a bold, spicy kick.
- Sparkling juice varieties — festive and refreshing.
- Non-alcoholic wines and beers — like those from Athletic Brewing — deliver adult flavor without the alcohol.
New Trends to Watch
Alabama retailers are now carrying THC-infused beverages like Sipz, Cann, or Wynk. These cannabis-infused options are low-dose and designed for responsible enjoyment — always check local laws and drink responsibly.
Holiday Hosting Starts at The Pig
One Stop for Holiday Flavor
From centerpieces like smoked ham to bottles of your favorite wine, Piggly Wiggly Birmingham is your one-stop shop for the holidays. We’re proud to support local farms, vineyards, and craft breweries — and proud to help you bring Southern hospitality to the table.
For even more inspiration, take a look at our guide to holiday beer and wine picks
Visit & Save at Your Local Piggly Wiggly Birmingham
Visit your local Piggly Wiggly Birmingham to stock up on holiday favorites — from the perfect bottle of wine to your favorite Alabama brews. Look for featured pairings in-store, and don’t forget to check The Pig Bham app for holiday specials and digital coupons! For even more inspiration, take a look at our guide to holiday beer and wine picks
Let’s toast to great food, good company, and Alabama flavor — all from The Pig.