Holiday Wine Shopping FAQs

1. Will this wine gift be something to drink now or is it something to be put in the cellar for ageing?

If you are looking to gift a wine to someone who does not have a cellar, or storage unit, it may be wise to get a wine that will not necessarily improve over time. This could be a wine that is young and juicy or one with a little bit of age and has reached its optimum drinking window.

2015 Briego Reserva, Bodegas Briego. Ribera del Duero, Spain $35.10

Here is an example of a wine that has spent most of its ageing time in the cellar at the winery. By Spanish law, the Ribera del Duero Riserva must be aged for a minimum of 3 years with at least one of those years in oak barrels. This red is now 6 years old and is showing maturity in smoky cedar, earth, leather and tobacco notes. It is deep dark and full bodied with smooth tannins and a long finish.

2. What is a good sparkling wine recommendation to celebrate the holidays?

Whether it is to toast an event or start a meal or ring in the New Year, the holidays always seem to call for bubbles! The hands down value driven sparkler has to be Prosecco. Not overly complicated or fussy, Prosecco is dry, zippy, lively and lightly fruity. It can be enjoyed on its own but also can be an essential component to your holiday cocktail.

Belstar Prosecco Brut, Bisol 1541 Veneto, Itlay $18.36

Shows a nice touch of minerals and flowers, with crisp apple and pear notes. Clean and super crisp, this is the ultimate aperitivo.

3. What is the best pairing for a traditional Christmas Roast?

After turkey on Thanksgiving, you may choose a traditional prime rib of beef for your Christmas meal. A nicely aged cut of meat always pairs well with a wine with both power and elegance. Cabernet Sauvignon from California can be a surefire match, especially from the more subtle region of Sonoma.

2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County, Pied a Terre Wines. California, USA $50.00

Aromas of blueberry, black cherry, vanilla, and pencil shavings with a rich, sweet mouthfeel and incredible length.