The holiday season is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of festive gatherings, thoughtful gift exchanges, and cozy moments by the fire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a soirée, or looking for the best wines to gift, having a selection of versatile wines on hand is a must.
8 Top Wine Picks
1. Thorn-Clarke NV Brut Sparkling
Thorn-Clarke Wines is rooted in the union of two Barossa Valley families with a shared history dating back to the gold rush. Their NV Brut Sparkling hails from the neighbouring Eden Valley wine region in Australia, blending Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Traditional Method, just like Champagne. Aged for six months, it’s a true celebratory wine, offering vibrant notes of green apple, citrus peel, strawberries and cream, alongside hints of roasted hazelnuts and brioche. Bright and lively on the palate with a polished finish, it’s the perfect choice to elevate any holiday celebration.
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2. 13th Street Cuvée Brut Sparkling Rosé
Rosé sparkling wines are the unsung heroes of the holiday season, and the 13th Street Cuvée Brut Sparkling Rosé is a standout. Crafted by 13th Street Winery – a boutique gem in Ontario known for its dedication to both winemaking and the arts – this Traditional Method sparkler combines 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir. Bursting with notes of strawberry, rhubarb, apple, and almond, it delivers a refreshing, juicy palate that effortlessly complements dishes from appetizers to mains. Elegant and versatile, this wine deserves a place on every holiday table.
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3. Casale del Giglio Cesanese
For a food-forward red wine that complements your holiday gatherings, look no further than Italy – a country renowned for pairing wines with delicious dishes. If you’re after a bold red to enhance hearty winter meals, this Cesanese from Lazio offers a taste of Italy’s rustic charm. The Casale del Giglio Cesanese is a deep ruby red, offering aromas of marasca cherry, white and black pepper, and delicate violet florals. The palate is soft yet vibrant, with structured tannins and balanced acidity, allowing it to age gracefully. It pairs beautifully with braised meats, roasted vegetables, and classic pasta dishes.
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4. Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif
The Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif is a luxurious, silky wine that pairs perfectly with classic holiday dishes. Produced by the family that created Caymus – this wine comes from their new winery in Suisun Valley, just southeast of Napa, California. While separated by an invisible county line, Suisun remains a largely undiscovered gem. The little-known Durif grape (aka Petite Sirah) thrives here, producing plush flavours of sugared plum and blueberry syrup, with spicy crushed peppercorns and a hint of violet. Bold meat dishes, roasted vegetables, and spiced sauces are ideal pairings for this standout California red wine.
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5. Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
An iconic wine made to be gifted and enjoyed, the Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon celebrates its 50th vintage this year. The 2022 vintage exemplifies the harmony of Napa Valley’s terroir, showcasing the hallmark Caymus style. It’s filled with rich aromas of black currants, blackberry, and huckleberry, complemented by hints of cedar, toasted vanilla, and espresso. On the palate, the wine is soft and lush, with a round, balanced character and a luxurious, inviting structure. This celebratory red wine is perfect for the season, making it an exceptional holiday gift.
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6. King Maui Sauvignon Blanc
Who says crisp white wines aren’t for winter? That’s a myth worth debunking—especially when you pair Sauvignon Blanc with lamb. The King Maui Sauvignon Blanc pays tribute to the Maori legend of the same name, the explorer who is said to have discovered New Zealand. This wine boasts tropical and herbaceous aromas, with hints of green melon and grapefruit. On the palate, it’s refreshingly crisp, with vibrant citrus flavours and a mouthwatering finish. Perfect not only for lamb but also for green vegetable dishes, fish, chicken, or a well-curated cheese plate, this New Zealand gem shines year-round.
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7. Cave de Lugny Macon Lugny Saint Pierre
Chardonnay is the ultimate white wine for the holidays, especially when it comes from its birthplace, Burgundy. Cave de Lugny, the largest producer of Mâcon-Villages wines, excels at crafting affordable, expressive Chardonnays from southern Burgundy. Their Mâcon-Lugny Saint-Pierre Chardonnay, a single-vineyard gem, shines with golden hues, fresh citrus, floral notes, nuts, and honey. Medium-bodied and vibrant, it offers delicate fruit and spice flavours with a refreshing finish. Elegant and versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion—or as a gift. Burgundy never disappoints!
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8. William Fèvre Petit Chablis
Chablis is a standout reason to embrace more Chardonnay, showcasing a style far removed from the oak-aged versions many are familiar with. Nestled in northern Burgundy near Champagne, Chablis produces wines exclusively from Chardonnay, celebrated for their freshness and minerality. William Fèvre, one of the region’s most esteemed producers, owns 70 hectares of prestigious vineyards, blending 250 years of heritage with a forward-looking approach. Their Petit Chablis is an excellent introduction to this unique terroir, offering pale gold hues, aromas of lemon, acacia, and subtle minerality. Fresh, fruity, and balanced, it pairs beautifully with mussels, seafood, and oysters, capturing the true essence of Chablis.
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