The holidays, when social gatherings multiply, are a time of year when picking the right bottle of wine really counts—these seasonal suggestions won’t disappoint:
for toasting: Bubbly is best for holiday toasting. From Spain, Parés Baltà Cava Brut NV (pictured, $18-$22) is elegant, with a fine mousse and delicate flavours of lemon, pear and (yes) baked bread, while 2009 Larmandier-Bernier "Terre de Vertus" Brut Champagne 1er cru AOC ($75-$120) is, as they say, la crème de la crème, with brioche, lemon and chalky notes that linger and linger, making every sip precious.
for turkey: Turkey’s not tricky to pair with wine; rather, it’s the many side dishes that come with the bird. Aromatic whites and fruity reds with supple tannins fit the bill—try 2010 Trimbach, Réserve Riesling, Alsace AOC (pictured, $27-$29), boasting brilliant acidity with piercing notes of lemon and lime. Another Christmas dinner winner: 2012 Jean-Paul Brun, L’Ancien Terres Dorées, Beaujolais AOC ($25-$27), with charming bright cherry and cranberry notes (chill it a bit first).
for après ski: Go for something rich, red and comforting to warm up after the slopes. 2011 Emiliana "Coyam" Colchagua Valley (pictured, $30-$35) by Chilean winemaker Alvaro Espinoza, is an elegant, complex (an interesting blend of Syrah, Carmenère, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre and Petit Verdot) and rich red that overdelivers for its price point.
Salut! —Michelle Bouffard, certified sommelier, www.housewine.ca
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