Is it me, or was it just October last week? It seems as if I was just getting used to autumn and now Im suddenly musing about wines for the holiday season. Sure, rich whites, soft reds and rosé wines are quite good with turkey, but I was thinking more about what bottles would be best as we dash off to parties and other festive gatherings over the next couple weeks.
I decided to check in with some friends in the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»wine scene to get their take on what makes a great wine for the season. The scenario presented was that they were off to a party, they wouldnt know everyone there and that they only had $25 to spend. Based on the gems I received as recommendations, Im thinking theyll probably get a few more party invitations this year.
Sommelier instructor and journalist DJ Kearney shares plenty of cheer around town but would certainly brighten up any party with Italys citrusy and floral Poggiotondo 2010 Bianco ($16.99, BC Liquor Stores). Its a lively winter white party starter from Tuscan superstar Alberto Antonini featuring the unsung Vermentino grape. What a pleasant surprise it was for yet another Italian white to make the grade dark, rainy weather be damned!
Brooke Delves, general manager and wine director of Kitsilanos Maenam restaurant, opted for the Dedicato a Mariana 2010 Greco di Tufo ($24.99, BC Liquor Stores) because, with its unique lemon zest, apple and almond notes, its a conversation starter that pairs beautifully with salads, seafood and light canapés.
With further proof that great minds think alike, Jake Skakun (sommelier at Gastowns LAbattoir) and wine-writer James Nevison (HadAGlass.com) both look to amp up the party and get spirits bright with some sparkling. Jakes choice, the Burgundian Caves de Lugny Crémant de Bourgogne Rosé ($25, private wine stores) is made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, full of summer berry fruit and freshness. Hes so confident in it that he lays it on the line: Its so versatile and crowd pleasing that, if it doesnt make you friends, Im not sure I can help you. James, on the other hand, crosses the border into Spain for Pares Balta Organic Cava Brut ($19.99, BC Liquor Stores) because nothing says party like a bottle of bubbly and its tongue-tingling effervescence makes it super food-friendly.
Alas, in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»were more likely to be dashing through the rain, and its during this time of year that were more likely to be topping up our glasses with something red. Educator and consultant Michelle Bouffard (HouseWine.ca) fully admits to having a weakness for cool-climate French Syrah, such as Delas Saint-Esprit 2009 Côtes-du-Rhône ($17.99, BC Liquor Stores). The beautiful, elegant floral and plum flavours promise to be a great match with home-cooked meat pie and Christmas dinner, he says.
Folks at the party could certainly enjoy that while Cru Restaurants Mark Taylor decants a bottle of Vina Albali 2002 Gran Reserva Tempranillo ($22.95, BC Liquor Stores). He looks forward to its classic Spanish earthy character smoothed out with extended barrel age and great fruit, and is stoked that its such a killer value.
The best though, Ive saved for last. While everyone else thought of perfect food pairings or a wine that would break the ice, it was James Iranzad of Abigails Party and the upcoming Wildebeest whos showing up armed with Louis Bouillot Cremant de Bourgogne Perle dAurore Rosé ($23.95, BC Liquor Stores), because thats what everyones lips should taste like under the mistletoe.
For more holiday wine picks, pop over to KurtisKolt.com.
