Maia’s Cellar is a column from our friend Maia Gosselin of Sip Wine Education!
'Tis the season for friends and family, parties, shopping, decorating, baking and more. But how do we get it all done? In a word: wine. There are so many special occasions during the holidays and I can’t think of a single instance that shouldn’t be accompanied by wine! Here’s my list of wines sure to please the palates of everyone on your list and at your table.
Life of the Party - Lot 49 Sparkling Rosé ($10)
If pink bubbly doesn’t get you in the holiday spirit, nothing will. Honestly, it’s a party in a glass. Lot 49 Sparkling Rosé is my go-to pick for holiday foods. It’s perfect with rich, fried and fatty foods. You know, pretty much everything we eat during the holidays! Bring a couple bottles to your next fête and you’ll be the most popular guest at the party.
The Yankee Swap Everyone Will Want - Lot 141 Organic Prosecco ($14.99)
No one will believe you stuck to the grab gift budget with this crowd-pleaser. Made from organically-grown grapes, it’s “extra dry” which is actually slightly sweeter than Brut bubbly. Clean and crisp with floral aromas and notes of citrus, peach and a hint of cream, it’s perfect in a Mimosa or with a little cranberry juice for a Poinsettia!
Romantic Red for a Chilly Night - Lot 162 Côtes du Rhône ($10)
Planning a party for two? This seductive Rhône red will set the mood perfectly. A classic blend of Grenache and Syrah with black cherry and blackberry on the nose with spice, anise and a little chocolate in the mouth. Sip it by a roaring fire with simple, rustic appetizers or warm up after outdoor winter activities like caroling, sledding and skating.
The Conversation Starter - Lot 149 Nascetta ($14.99)
Wine is the ultimate conversation starter and this exotic Italian white is sure to get things started! Nascetta is a relatively unknown Italian grape but it produces exquisite wine. First documented over 140 years ago, it is the only white grape indigenous to Langhe. Piedmont reds tend to get all the glory (Barolo, Barbera and Barbaresco) but this grape is both elegant and approachable
The Triple Threat - Lot 153 Sauvignon Blanc ($10)
If there is a Triple Threat wine, Sauvignon Blanc is it. It makes a great party wine, hostess gift and pairs with a huge assortment of foods. Adored for its bright acidity and zippy tang, you just can’t miss with Sauv Blanc. In my opinion the best expressions hail from France, and Lot 153 doesn’t disappoint. It’s crisp, fresh and easy-to-drink with notes of peach, lime and lemon zest.
The Hidden Gem - Lot 158 Beaujolais ($10)
Looking for that crowd-pleasing red that won’t break the bank? You can’t go wrong with Lot 158 Beaujolais! Do not confuse this sassy red with its Nouveau cousin! This 100% Gamay is a bright, fresh, fruit-forward, juicy wine with aromas of strawberry, blueberry and a little spice. I like it with a slight chill and paired with pretty much anything. Plus it’s a total steal!
Dazzle the Dinner Guests - Lot 159 Reserve Chenas Cru du Beaujolais ($16.99)
This one is a stunner. A cru Beaujolais from the highly-regarded Chénas region… it’s simply magnificent! This wine is balanced and fresh with notes of red cherry and plum alongside subtle earthiness. Whether you’re hosting dinner or a lucky guest, this red will be a highlight.
The Gift That’s Hard to Part With - Magic Door La Cle de la Femme Champagne ($35)
We all have that special loved one we want to splurge on at the holidays, and nothing says luxury quite like a bottle of Champagne. La Cle de la Femme is classic Champagne for under $40. Really! It’s pale gold and dry with those lovely tiny bubbles. I suggest buying one as a gift and keeping one for yourself.