Holiday Cheers: Top Wines to Savor This Festive Season
As the holiday season unfolds, bringing with it a symphony of flavors and festive gatherings, the perfect selection of wines becomes essential to elevate any celebration. From the sparkling effervescence of a fine Champagne to the rich, warming notes of a classic red, the right wine can transform a holiday meal into an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we'll explore an array of wines that are not just drinks, but companions to your holiday cheer, each with its unique character and story, perfect for toasting to the joys of the season.
To Kalon Vineyard Company 2019 Highest Beauty Photo Set ($250.00)
In a delightful fusion of fine wine and art, To Kalon Vineyard Company, celebrated for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons in Napa Valley, has partnered with LA-based photographer Terry McLaughlin to create a limited-edition gift set. This set, a perfect embodiment of Napa Valley's enchanting beauty, features a bottle of the esteemed 2019 Highest Beauty alongside a still image capturing the essence of the To Kalon Vineyard. Presented in a beautifully designed box that needs no additional wrapping, this exclusive offering is an ideal holiday gift for wine enthusiasts and art lovers alike, bringing a piece of Napa Valley's renowned vineyard right into the home.
The Veuve Clicquot Fridge, reimagined in collaboration with the innovative industrial designer SMEG, is a standout gift for the holiday season. This audacious chill box, inspired by the iconic refrigerators of the 1950s, now boasts an eco-friendly design. Crafted from recyclable tin and featuring a removable wedge made entirely from sugarcane waste, the Clicquot Fridge is not only plastic-free but also serves as a stylish, upcycled designer box. Perfect for keeping your favorite bottle chilled for up to two hours, this chic and sustainable accessory is a must-have for holiday entertaining, blending timeless design with modern environmental consciousness.
An iconic Italian red, Riserva Ducale Oro is made from grapes harvested by hand, mostly from Ruffino’s Gretole estate in the Chianti Classico appellation. This wine expresses a distinctive Tuscan bouquet of violet, cherry, and plum, with aromas of chocolate and spice.
Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a nod to Napa Valley winemaking history and a fresh take on a classic. Made with organic grapes, this Cabernet Sauvignon evolves with each sip and gracefully unfolds on the palate.
“The Brendel Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings and an under-the-radar gift comparable to an age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon at twice its price,” says McCoy. “The Cooper’s Reed is a pure expression of the vineyard, a high pedigree wine that is immensely delicious to drink now.”
Discover the elegance of Italian winemaking with Azienda Agricola Terrabianca's Vignot. This exquisite wine, hailing from the renowned vineyards of Italy, is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Italian viticulture. Vignot captivates with its harmonious blend of flavors, offering a sophisticated palate experience. Its well-rounded profile, characterized by vibrant fruit notes and a delicate balance of acidity and tannins, makes it an ideal companion for a variety of festive dishes. Whether enjoyed with a sumptuous holiday meal or as a stand-alone glass of cheer, Vignot is sure to add a touch of Italian finesse to your festive celebrations.
The latest addition to California winery Sonoma-Cutrer’s Winemaker’s Release series is the 2019 Grand Brut Rosé. The Winemaker’s Release is a series of wines that showcases Sonoma-Cutrer’s commitment to artisan craftsmanship and showcases their unique, high-quality production practices. The 2019 Grand Brut Rosé is light pink in color, with aromas of hibiscus flower, red-sour cherry, and a touch of watermelon, which are complemented with fresh brioche bread and mandarin citrus notes. On the palate, the wine features notes of mandarin, kumquat, citrus fruit, a touch of wet stone minerality, and light cherry flavors that are balanced with Sonoma-Cutrer’s signature acidity. Pair this celebratory sparkler with goat cheese, fruit tarts, or fresh oysters with salmon caviar for a decadent experience.
This red field blend is a walk in the sun and meant to be enjoyed in its youth. A unique perspective of the largest Demeter Certified Biodynamic ranch in Napa, the Andosol has intensity and depth, with incredible aging potential.
“The Ink Grade Andosol is a perfect addition to the holiday table, as it is a versatile red blend that pairs well with a range of entrees and side dishes, such as duck, ham, and potatoes,” says McCoy. “I often recommend this wine without specifying a particular food pairing. The roundness and hint of spicy opulence offer density, without overpowering a dish, making it perennially food-friendly.”
The A to Z Oregon Pinot Noir has complexity and depth resulting from diverse sourcing across Western Oregon’s dynamic growing regions. Over 70 vineyard sites with different microclimates and soil types contribute to the layered nuancing in this classic Oregon Pinot Noir. Great for Pinot Noir lovers or those new to Pinot Noir or Oregon wine. Also available at Drizly.