The 6 Wines for Christmas are finally here! This year I picked only Old World wines compared to past years where I also recommended New World Wines or a mix of them. This year’s wine recommendations reflect how much, I have had the pleasure of getting to know the Old World deeper. Through my sommelier studies, I am appreciating much more the classics. Furthermore, I am giving you some pairing ideas and tasting notes. You might need more than one bottle of each, depending on the number of family and friends you get together.
Trimbach Riesling Réserve 2019 (750ml/$34.00)
Riesling is generally a misunderstood grape. It can be generalized as a fruit-forward, sometimes tart, or even sweet. However, when you get to savor Riesling from Alsace, you get to appreciate this white grape at its fullest. Trimbach Riesling Réserve is a classic coming from the French wine region Alsace and has aromas of lemon peel, honeyed fruit, and menthol on the nose. This elegant Riesling is full-body dry, and mineral is a worthy accompaniment to many dishes such as appetizers selfish all the way to the Traditional Christmas Turkey, Pork chops, Asian cuisine, or Salmon.
Saget La Perrière Sancerre 2020 (750ml/$39.99)-
During the summer, I rediscovered Sauvignon Blanc. I was blown away during the virtual tasting with Saget La Perrière as I learned they were aging Sauvignon Blanc in natural caves. Hence, I had to include this beautiful expression of Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is very fruity, powerful, and generous on the palate, with a light citrus freshness on the end palate. Saget La Perrière Sancerre is well-balanced and harmonious and perfectly served as an aperitif along with goat cheeses, pate, or paired with poultry, fish in white sauce.
Château de La Chaize Brouilly 2019 (750ml/$27.99)-
Let’s celebrate the spirit of Beaujolais! This year I discovered Beaujonomie, the Spirit of Beaujolais. Particularly, Château de La Chaize Brouilly is aromatic with notes of raspberry and violets. The palate offers depth and lively acidity, a hint of spices with silky tannins. It is the perfect wine to enjoy with a slight chill. Pair with fish, romeritos, chicken, wild mushrooms, and flavorful cheeses.
Chateau de Pizay Morgon 2019 (750ml/$19.99)-
The 6 Wines for Christmas will be incomplete without not just one but a couple of Beaujolais. I was so scared of the word Morgon words in years past. However, this year thanks to great importers and Beaujolais experiences, I had the pleasure to experience Beaujonomie and discover the friendly character of Beaujolais. This Morgon 2019 from Chateau de Pizay has black fruits and medium acidity, perfect for enjoying classic Christmas Turkey or even Salmon.
Rocca delle Maccie Chianti Classico (750ml/$16.99)-
Chianti Classico is an approachable wine, another crowd-pleaser if paired correctly. Rocca delle Maccie Chianti Classico is an exquisite example from the region, produced exclusively with grapes from estates situated in the heart of the historical Chianti Classico zone. The palate has medium tannins, black and red berry fruit flavors medium to full-bodied with rich, well-structured but smooth tannins. Pairs delicious with the spaghetti’s, meat and even cured cheeses.
Raices BOBAL (750ml/$19.99)-
The Bobal and Mencia grapes showed me how little I knew about the South-East of Spain this year. Through the Spain Great Match event where I could pour these great wines, I learned that these grapes were used for blending purposes only but having a 100% Bobal is such a treasure in one’s hand. This 100% Bobal red wine showcases violets and red berries on the aromas and on the palate and subtle tannins and low acidity that make it great to pair with light fatty meats as NY Strip Steak, Veal, Poultry, or even Portobello Mushrooms.
For Sparkling Wine Recommendations either for Appetizers or Desserts check the Holiday Sparkling Wine List post here.
PIN ME
