4 Great Wines for Family and Friend Holiday Gatherings
A few crowd pleasing wines to enjoy at the of 2022
2022 was an awkward and crazy year for everyone, I believe. Crazy financial and housing markets, layoffs, Elon, Ukraine, flu, wowza…stop the insanity. But through it all, it seemed to be the first Christmas in almost four years where we reunited with family and got back to some sense of normalcy for holiday celebrations. So as we go into the run up to the new year, I thought I'd read a piece on one of my favorite topics: fine wine. I believe there is nothing better and kicking back in the chair with an awesome red or wine of your choice. It adds to the celebration, and can make her break an awesome meal. So here are some recommendations that I've been meaning to make. Try one of these special wines, or be the talk of your Christmas week celebration, or your New Year's party or dinner with family and bring one of these wines along.
Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles, $49
“The father-in-law pleaser”
This cab has been one of my favorites over the past few months, and we served it for Christmas Eve dinner. It hails from Paso Robles, California.
Wine guy talk: “The classic and beautiful ruby color of this wine is stunning and sets the stage for this robust Cabernet Sauvignon. On the nose, aromas of tobacco, dark chocolate shavings, fresh black currant hints of savory notes.”
And it has a beautiful and smooth taste.
Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020, $73
“The shut the f..k up Uncle Louis wine.”
You can't go wrong with Caymus. this winery repeatedly produces excellent wine every season and this one doesn't disappoint. Fitting for any family gathering or evening with friends. Hails from Napa, CA.
Wine guy talk: “Possibly California's most consistent producer of great Cabernet, the Wagner family are Napa pioneers. Featuring decadent ripe blackberry flavors with undertones of vanilla and toasted oak.”
Be sure and let it breather for ½ hour before serving.
Decoy By Duckhorn Zinfandel, $18
“The ‘I lost my job at Twitter’ budget wine”
Duckhorn makes some great wine at a great price. So, if you're watching your pennies this season or you worked at Twitter, buy up and impress. Plus, the label's really cool. From Sonoma County, CA.
Wine guy talk: “Aromas are ripe and appealing, offering layers of strawberry jam, raspberry and sweet vanilla, as well as hints of chocolate-covered cherries and white pepper. On the palate, the entry is full and balanced with lovely cranberry notes.”
Wear Barbour jacket while gifting to give an outdoorsy mojo.
Stag's Leap Chardonnay Karia Napa, 2019, $32
“Grandma’s favorite”
Nothing loosens up a family gathering on New Year’s than pumping Aunt Lisa full of chardonnay. I just love to watch the fireworks ;). Stag’s Leap Chardonnay is great for any party.
From Napa Valley, CA.
Wine guy talk: "This well-knit white is filled with a juicy basket of white peach, ruby grapefruit and lemon curd flavors. Pastry accents midpalate lead to the voluptuously spiced finish..."
Chill a little for the ladies.
Just a short list of some of the wines that were great hits this year, and make a great house warming gift for this holiday weekend new year.