Choosing the perfect wine needn’t be a chore, but a reason to learn about the enormous varietals there are on the market today. Whether it’s to celebrate the season or to make it bearable, the perfect white, red, or sparkling wine is available to fit any budget. With the impressive and diverse selection that consumers have access to, anyone can become an amateur wine connoisseur in time to impress family and friends during the busy holiday season.
White Wines
Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling and sparkling wines are a few examples of white wines. Gris - also known as Grigios - can range from full-bodied to light and typically pair well with white meats and seafood dishes (think oyster stuffing). One to try is San Giuseppe Pinot Grigio Veneto—it scores an 87 out 100 points in Wine Spectator and for $9.99 a bottle it rivals more expensive whites. With its delicate mixture of florals and hint of pear, it has a silky finish, but a strong, invigorating flavor.
Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Eroica Riesling (2006 vintage) is sweeter than grigios and chardonnays. It hails from the Yakima Valley in Washington State and was given 90 points by Wine Spectator. Citrusy flavors intermingle with subtle essences of peach and minerals. Its diverse and complex nature pairs nicely with Far East cuisine, as well as seafood dishes. Its nature evokes an autumnal feel—think fall leaves, cool evenings with the grill or fire pit going and sipping a bottle (or two) with a loved one or friends. Price is about $20.
Red Wines
Pinot Noir and Merlots are favorites of red wine drinkers. An excellent noir to try is 5 Rivers, named for the spiritual names of the Five Rivers: The River of Truth, The River of Time, The River of Memory, The River of Romance and the River of Ceremony. Lighter than a Merlot, it pairs well with steak, chicken or fish. From the central coast of California, this energetic, light red has a blend of strawberries, cherries and piquant scents of flower blossoms. It has a zesty finish and was named Gold/Best of Class in the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. For around $11.99, it’s a great buy.
Feeling the crunch this year? Try Columbia Crest Two Vines Merlot. Vinted in 2004 from Washington State’s Horse Heaven Hills along the Columbia River that shares the same latitude as central France, this rich, hearty little wine has a woodsy aroma, undercurrents of black cherries, a fluttering of raspberries, and a decadent, velvety chocolate finish. Rated as an editor’s best buy in Wine Spectator and awarded 88 points, this one can range from $5.99 on sale to $7.99 full price!
Dessert wines and Sparkling (Champagne) Wines
After food and drink, finish the evening with a sweet, full-bodied dessert wine. Sip a glass of Lamoreaux Landing’s Vidal Ice Wine. Made in the tradition of ice wines, without the $40-$50 price, it’s the perfect accompaniment to pumpkin pie, sweet cheeses, and creamy desserts. You’ll smell summer ripe pears, pineapples and citrusy accents with a heavenly subtlety of maple and honey and a slightly mineral finish. At $23-$25 a bottle, this one time treat is worth it. Find it at wine distributors or specialty groceries such as Whole Foods
To toast in the New Year, try Perrier-Jouet NV Grand Brut Champagne—its oh so delicately sweet mixtures of citrus fruits and woody flavors are well worth the $35-38 price tag.
Final Tips to Choose a Good Wine
- Take the time to read about flavors and finishes of wines. Wine Spectator and Food and Wine are excellent resources to explore where and how wines are produced which are key factors in determining their flavor and essence.
- Visit local restaurants for wine tastings.
- Inquire with local wine shopkeepers as to what pairs well with your menu.
- Determine your preference: full-bodied or light, red or white.
- Be open to tasting a wine that is opposite of what you’re accustomed to drinking—you may find a new favorite!
- Plan a mini-vacation to a local winery.
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