Holiday Wine Guide
During the holidays you will no doubt be invited to a few parties. I never want to attend a party empty handed, but often times the host/hostess says “Just bring yourself!” More often than not I will bring a bottle a wine that I love, but not everyone likes the same kind. Personally, I love a nice strong red wine which is not always the best crowd pleaser.
So I asked a good friend of mine who has worked in the wine and spirits industry for almost 10 years to gather up a list of great wines that won’t break the bank. All of the wines listed below are available at most grocery stores and there are two options – (1) choice that is under $10 and (1) choice that is over $10. Now, keep in mind that because of holiday sales and depending on where you live in the US, the prices may vary.
Chardonnays
Double T 2012 Chard $9.99 – 8.99: Peach, nectarine, baking spices and toasty oak. This wine will be in the style of buttery and rich.
Landmark Overlook Chard $20.99 – 18.89: White peach, lemon, straw and Oak. This has some toastiness to it but it well balanced with the acidity.
Cabernets
Columbia Crest Cab $8.99 – 6.99: Dark red fruits ( cherry, currants). Well balanced Cab for the price!
JUSTIN Cab $19.98 – 17.98” Ripe red fruits, cinnamon and soft tannins.
Pinot Noirs
Castle Rock Point Noir $8.99 – 7.19: Black Cherry, Plum and herb spices. There are several appellations for this wine. They are all good but the best I found was Central Coast.
Meimoi Point Noir $19.99 – 17.99: Ripe berries, candy apple and earthiness and oak on finish.
Sparkling wines
Korbel Natural $15.99 – $10.07: This is a dry wine. Crisp apple balanced with ripe red fruit.
Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc $35.00 – 25.19: Vibrant, fruity and crisp dry wine.
