Holiday Cheers: Top Wines to Savor This Festive Season

As the holiday season unfolds, bringing with it a symphony of flavors and festive gatherings, the perfect selection of wines becomes essential to elevate any celebration. From the sparkling effervescence of a fine Champagne to the rich, warming notes of a classic red, the right wine can transform a holiday meal into an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we'll explore an array of wines that are not just drinks, but companions to your holiday cheer, each with its unique character and story, perfect for toasting to the joys of the season.

To Kalon Vineyard Company 2019 Highest Beauty Photo Set ($250.00)

In a delightful fusion of fine wine and art, To Kalon Vineyard Company, celebrated for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons in Napa Valley, has partnered with LA-based photographer Terry McLaughlin to create a limited-edition gift set. This set, a perfect embodiment of Napa Valley's enchanting beauty, features a bottle of the esteemed 2019 Highest Beauty alongside a still image capturing the essence of the To Kalon Vineyard. Presented in a beautifully designed box that needs no additional wrapping, this exclusive offering is an ideal holiday gift for wine enthusiasts and art lovers alike, bringing a piece of Napa Valley's renowned vineyard right into the home.

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Clicquot Fridge x SMEG

The Veuve Clicquot Fridge, reimagined in collaboration with the innovative industrial designer SMEG, is a standout gift for the holiday season. This audacious chill box, inspired by the iconic refrigerators of the 1950s, now boasts an eco-friendly design. Crafted from recyclable tin and featuring a removable wedge made entirely from sugarcane waste, the Clicquot Fridge is not only plastic-free but also serves as a stylish, upcycled designer box. Perfect for keeping your favorite bottle chilled for up to two hours, this chic and sustainable accessory is a must-have for holiday entertaining, blending timeless design with modern environmental consciousness.

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Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro ($39.99) 

An iconic Italian red, Riserva Ducale Oro is made from grapes harvested by hand, mostly from Ruffino’s Gretole estate in the Chianti Classico appellation. This wine expresses a distinctive Tuscan bouquet of violet, cherry, and plum, with aromas of chocolate and spice. 

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Brendel Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 ($50)

Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a nod to Napa Valley winemaking history and a fresh take on a classic. Made with organic grapes, this Cabernet Sauvignon evolves with each sip and gracefully unfolds on the palate.

“The Brendel Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings and an under-the-radar gift comparable to an age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon at twice its price,” says McCoy. “The Cooper’s Reed is a pure expression of the vineyard, a high pedigree wine that is immensely delicious to drink now.”

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Azienda Agricola Terrabianca Vignot

Discover the elegance of Italian winemaking with Azienda Agricola Terrabianca's Vignot. This exquisite wine, hailing from the renowned vineyards of Italy, is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Italian viticulture. Vignot captivates with its harmonious blend of flavors, offering a sophisticated palate experience. Its well-rounded profile, characterized by vibrant fruit notes and a delicate balance of acidity and tannins, makes it an ideal companion for a variety of festive dishes. Whether enjoyed with a sumptuous holiday meal or as a stand-alone glass of cheer, Vignot is sure to add a touch of Italian finesse to your festive celebrations.

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Sonoma-Cutrer Winemaker’s Release 2019 Grand Brut Rosé (12% ABV, SRP: $54.99)

The latest addition to California winery Sonoma-Cutrer’s Winemaker’s Release series is the 2019 Grand Brut Rosé. The Winemaker’s Release is a series of wines that showcases Sonoma-Cutrer’s commitment to artisan craftsmanship and showcases their unique, high-quality production practices. The 2019 Grand Brut Rosé is light pink in color, with aromas of hibiscus flower, red-sour cherry, and a touch of watermelon, which are complemented with fresh brioche bread and mandarin citrus notes. On the palate, the wine features notes of mandarin, kumquat, citrus fruit, a touch of wet stone minerality, and light cherry flavors that are balanced with Sonoma-Cutrer’s signature acidity. Pair this celebratory sparkler with goat cheese, fruit tarts, or fresh oysters with salmon caviar for a decadent experience.

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Ink Grade Andosol 2018 ($75)

This red field blend is a walk in the sun and meant to be enjoyed in its youth. A unique perspective of the largest Demeter Certified Biodynamic ranch in Napa, the Andosol has intensity and depth, with incredible aging potential.

“The Ink Grade Andosol is a perfect addition to the holiday table, as it is a versatile red blend that pairs well with a range of entrees and side dishes, such as duck, ham, and potatoes,” says McCoy. “I often recommend this wine without specifying a particular food pairing. The roundness and hint of spicy opulence offer density, without overpowering a dish, making it perennially food-friendly.”

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A to Z 2021 Oregon Pinot Noir ($22)

The A to Z Oregon Pinot Noir has complexity and depth resulting from diverse sourcing across Western Oregon’s dynamic growing regions.  Over 70 vineyard sites with different microclimates and soil types contribute to the layered nuancing in this classic Oregon Pinot Noir.  Great for Pinot Noir lovers or those new to Pinot Noir or Oregon wine. Also available at Drizly.

Top Shelf Drinks To Gift This Holiday Season

When it comes to the holiday season, a good drink will always be an easy gift to give a choice. While your friends and family may have their favorite on-hand wines and an inventory that keeps bringing you home, for the holidays is the time to give something truly rare for his top-shelf. Not sure what is worthy? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with the perfect gift to bring for the rare wine and spirits collector.

Hennessy Hands - Starting at $1,609 on ReserveBar

A tribute to the savoir-faire of the Maison, combining craftsmanship, innovation and personalization with Hennessy Paradis, Hennessy Hands allows you to add a bespoke engraving to the timeless Paradis decanter. You may have your initials or a heartfelt message inscribed onto the decanter in a beautiful script illuminated with hand-applied patinas. In celebration of the eight generations of the Hennessy and Fillioux families, Hennessy Hands have curated a collection of calf leather accessories in eight colorways for you to combine with your inscription.

Zacapa XO

Zacapa Rum and Baccarat are inviting luxury lovers to give the gift of exceptional craft this holiday season. The two brands, each rooted in artistry, heritage, and craftsmanship, are coming together to provide the ultimate gift for those who appreciate the finer things in life: an exclusive set of crystal glassware alongside a personalized engraved bottle of Zacapa Rum’s most coveted expression, Zacapa XO.

The set, which includes Baccarat’s exquisite Harmonie Tumblers and a bottle of Zacapa XO, will be available nationwide on TheBar.com starting on December 5th for $350. Those looking for an extra special touch can opt to have their bottle of Zacapa XO personalized making it an even more perfect companion to the hand-etched crystal glasses. In the spirit of giving, Zacapa is also offering complimentary engraving on TheBar.com, ensuring each gift is set to impress the dark spirit aficionado on the receiving end.

The GlenDronach Grandeur Batch 11

The GlenDronach Distillery recently announced the much-anticipated release of The GlenDronach Grandeur Batch 11, an exquisite example of the brand’s signature richly-sherried Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The GlenDronach Grandeur Batch 11 is a 28-year-old Single Malt hand-selected by Master Blender Rachel Barrie from a small number of rare Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks.

This rare and luxurious expression was matured in fine sherry casks for nearly three decades and epitomizes The GlenDronach’s mastery of sherry cask maturation. It embodies the brand’s commitment to crafting the most exceptional, richly sherried Single Malts, using time-honored methods passed down through the generations for almost two centuries.

A limited number of Grandeur Batch 11 bottles will be available, with each individual bottle sealed with wax and numbered by hand to reflect its rarity. The GlenDronach Grandeur Batch 11 is bottled at 48.9% ABV, and, as is the case for all The GlenDronach expressions, develops its deep color naturally over time from the Spanish oak in which it rests. It is available in the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $800.

Rosé Vintage 2009 – $465.00

After 12 years of maturation in the cellar, this Vintage is quintessential of a Dom Pérignon Rosé, which totes ultimate power and harmony from the meticulous years of aging to achieve its radical expression. The result for the Rosé 2009 is raw power: the red of the pinot noir is radiant and vibrant with aromas of raspberry, fig, strawberry, and cherry, harmonized with the delicate mineral elegance of the chardonnay. 

Oxley Gin

Oxley Gin (SRP: $40) is a one-of-a-kind, London dry gin company which invented its own cold distillation process (which took 8 years and 38 recipes to perfect!) to create wholly unique flavors that you don’t get with most gins, which are typically distilled under heat. This proprietary technology allows Oxley to use fresh frozen citrus peel, instead of the typical dried peel. The result is a sipping experience unlike any other – Oxley gin goes down smooth, but also, each bottle is individually numbered, so the Oxley experience feels more intimate, making it the perfect gift for savvy spirits enthusiasts, and will please the martini lovers at your next holiday gathering.

PATRÓN EL ALTO

PATRÓN EL ALTO marks the brand’s first step into the prestige category and demonstrates over four years of craftsmanship, ingenuity and artistry.

As a result of over 300 tastings, legendary Master Distiller David Rodriguez and his talented team of distilling artisans combined an exceptional selection of the best Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo tequilas to create PATRÓN EL ALTO -  resulting in a naturally smooth and sweet taste with subtle notes of figs, honey, caramel, dried fruit and vanilla.

PATRÓN EL ALTO is perfect for momentous occasions big and small, packaged in an elegant and distinctive bottle, matching the azure hues of the agave fields in the Jalisco Highlands.

The exceptional tequila is available in select U.S. markets, including New York, Miami, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles at an SRP of $179.

Glenfiddich x Thierry Atlan

For those with a penchant for gourmet treats, Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky and French confectioner Thierry Atlan have crafted an exquisite offering. Their collaboration presents a limited-edition gift box of 12 handcrafted macarons, each one a perfect blend of fine patisserie and luxury Scotch whisky. These macarons are uniquely infused with Glenfiddich Grand Cru, a distinguished single malt matured for 23 years and finished in French Cuvée casks. This extraordinary whisky imparts a symphony of flavors to the macarons, from rich vanilla and sweet brioche to sandalwood, pear sorbet, and white grape, all enveloped in a luscious white chocolate ganache. Priced at $68, these Glenfiddich x Thierry Atlan Grand Cru Scotch Whisky-Infused Macarons are available for purchase online and at Thierry Atlan's Soho Boutique in New York City. They represent not just a gift, but an unforgettable experience for the discerning sweet-toothed foodie this holiday season.

Royal Salute 21-Year-Old

A celebration to live long in the memory, Royal Salute was created to mark the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On the nose, sweet pears and citrus fruits are balanced with the fragrance of autumn flowers. An elegant blend of vanilla and dry oak is crowned with subtle notes of sherry and just a wisp of smoke. In the mouth, the welcome warmth of orange marmalade and fresh pears is followed by a brave explosion of spices and hazelnut. After the excitement, a trace of smoke lingers. 

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Belvedere Miami Exclusive Launch Party At Strawberry Moon

Annabella Pardo

We were recently invited to the official launch party of Belvedere Vodka’s first limited-edition bottle inspired by a US destination: Belvedere Miami, a show-stopping bottle inspired by the trendsetting energy and fun-loving vibe of America’s premier beach party destination.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

We celebrated on the pool deck of Strawberry Moon, where we got a first-look at the bottle and enjoyed signature cocktails & light bites.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

Belvedere’s Miami Edition is the brand’s first limited-edition offering to be inspired by a U.S, destination with previous editions including Ibiza, Mykonos and Côte d’Azur.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

With a bright pink and green palette, the bottle embodies Miami’s vibrant hues and sunny disposition with Art Deco details that pay homage to its glamorous architectural style.

Photo via @belvederevodka

Belvedere Vodka introduced its newest limited- edition offering: Belvedere Miami, a stunning bottle inspired by the coastal lifestyle of one of America’s most iconic cities. It was just in time for Miami Music Week, the show-stopping bottle was officially introduced at Ultra Music Festival this past weekend.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

Belvedere is on a mission to reclaim the night, and with its vibrant array of limited-edition bottlings, the luxury vodka is bringing its energy and excitement to some of the world’s most legendary party destinations.

Photo via @belvederevodka @strawberrymoon and @annabellapardo

Photo via @belvederevodka

Perfect for pool parties and sensational summer days, the Miami Edition’s vibrant pink and green palette is inspired by Miami’s vibrant hues and sunny disposition. The city’s name is emblazoned on the 1.75L bottle in an eye-catching neon decal, with Art Deco details that pay homage to its glamorous architectural style. The bottle also lights up for an extra playful twist allowing the amusement to continue after hours – making it the perfect accessory for Miami’s famed nightlife.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

The limited-edition 1.75L bottle is now available in Miami’s finest restaurants, bars and clubs. Belvedere will also be releasing a 1L variation of the Miami bottle, launching in mid-April at local retail and key accounts. For more information, please visit www.belvederevodka.com.

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

Photo via @belvederevodka and @strawberrymoon

About BELVEDERE VODKA

Made from Polish rye, purified water and a distillation process by fire, Belvedere is produced in one of the world’s longest operating polish distilleries that has been making vodka since 1910. Belvedere’s master rye distillers draw from a 600-year polish vodka- making history to artfully craft rye into an extraordinary vodka of distinct taste and character. Its taste profile is structured and elegant with hints of almond, vanilla and white pepper, a subtle sweet velvety mouthfeel and a smooth, clean finish.

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Château d’Esclans And United Airlines Inflight Collaboration With Whispering Angel Rosé

Annabella Pardo

Château d’Esclans and United Airlines announced that Whispering Angel Rosé is now available complimentary to United Polaris business class passengers inflight. United adds the number one rosé to its popular wine offerings, as consumer demand continues to grow with a nearly 30 percent on-premise sales increase from 2021 to 2022.

Photo via @united and @thewhisperingangel

“Whispering Angel was instrumental in sparking the Rosé Revolution and has become synonymous with a glamorous lifestyle, so being able to share this exceptional wine with those flying United Polaris as they embark on their travels is exciting,” says Sacha Lichine, owner of Château d’Esclans. “We’re proud to be able to reach new consumers and offer them a taste of the magic of Provence.”

Photo via @united and @thewhisperingangel

United Polaris is the airline’s luxury business class, including exclusive airport lounges, priority boarding and inflight amenities like lie-flat seats with a memory foam layer and all-aisle access, plush bedding, 16-inch high-definition touch screens, noise-reducing headphones, amenity kits and additional storage. Whispering Angel, today’s worldwide reference for Provence rosé available in more than 110 countries, joins a line-up of curated, complimentary United Polaris menu offerings, ranging from a rotating list of complimentary, premium wines to cheese plates and an ice cream sundae cart.  

“United Polaris delivers an elevated experience and we’re proud to now be the only U.S. airline that serves Whispering Angel Rosé,” said Aaron McMillan, United Managing Director of Hospitality and Planning. “Whispering Angel is the top-selling French wine in the U.S. so we know it’s something travelers will be thrilled to see onboard just in time for spring break travel.”

Whispering Angel Rosé is available now onboard United Polaris business class. For more information about Château d’Esclans and Whispering Angel, please visit www.esclans.com or contact whisperingangel@weareshadow.com. For more information about United Airlines, please visit www.united.com.

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These Wines Are The Perfect Bottle To Any Holiday Party

You have 4 holiday parties in 3 days and are unsure what to bring anyone. The perfect gift is one that can be shared together and something you may be able to enjoy yourself, none other than wine! Not sure what to bring for such an occasion, we’ve rounded up the perfect wines for holiday giving.

Yellow Label Fridge Gift Box

The Veuve Clicquot Fridge is an audacious chill box inspired by the refrigerators of the 1950s. Re-edited in collaboration with the pioneering industrial designer SMEG, the Clicquot Fridge is now plastic-free and constructed in recyclable tin, with a removable wedge made from 100% sugarcane waste so that it can be upcycled as a designer box. The Clicquot Fridge keeps any bottle chilled for up to two hours and is infinitely recyclable.

Tenuta Luce, Luce Toscana IGT 2019

Tenuta Luce, Luce Toscana IGT 2019 ($130), is the flagship wine of the Luce estate in Montalcino, Italy. An iconic Super Tuscan wine born in 1993 from the partnership between Napa legend Robert Mondavi and Vittorio Frescobaldi of the historic Marchese de Frescobaldi family empire of Tuscany. Translating to “Light” this powerful, bold blend of Sangiovese and Merlot will delight everyone with its velvety mouthfeel and a deep, complex flavor profile that displays everything from vanilla and cocoa to a fresh cigar box.

The Merry Meiomi Reds

The Merry Meiomi Reds bundle includes three delicious reds from our California-wine portfolio: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Red Blend. The Cabernet Sauvignon boasts flavors of blackberry, minty herbs, and boysenberry to name a few. The full flavors are highlighted by a plush, velvety mouthfeel with a long finish. Our Pinot Noir is aged for six months in French oak barrels, resulting in an expressive and juicy strawberry flavor with notes of dark berries and toasted mocha. And the newest, the Red Blend, draws you in with its strong flavors of berries, currants, and dark roast mocha, which are accompanied by aromas of toasty oak + vanilla.

Sonoma-Cutrer Rose of Pinot Noir 2021

The 2021 Rosé of Pinot Noir is a beautiful and delicate example of why Russian River Valley Pinot Noir makes a wonderful rosé. The beautiful, light salmon color of the wine catches the light in the glass and opens up with aromas of tangerine, pink grapefruit, strawberry, raspberry and a light hint of rose petal. A crisp, refreshing mouthfeel accentuates the fresh fruit flavors of citrus, red berry fruit with a tropical twist that leads to a long, juicy and tangy finish. It is the perfect warm weather wine to sip on all summer long.

Castello del Terriccio Lupicaia Toscana IGT 2016

Castello del Terriccio Lupicaia Toscana IGT 2016 (SRP $150) is a classic Super Tuscan and one of the most iconic Italian wine bottle labels in history. This blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot debuted in 1993 and has since then received numerous international awards. It is a full-bodied, complex wine, with fine aromas of tobacco, dark fruit, chocolate, and spices. With its elegant tannins and a persistent finish, Lupicaia will age beautifully for a very long time.

San Felice’s Poggio Rosso

This holiday season, you can’t go wrong with an earthy Chianti Classico on your dinner table! San Felice’s Poggio Rosso is the perfect Tuscan choice to serve to your guests all season long. 

This ruby red wine has a nose that releases scents of dried plum, blackberry, and raspberry. With velvety tannins and a judicious acidity on the palate, it is a wine of extraordinary longevity. It pairs well with grills and barbecues, wild game, and aged pecorino cheese.

Not only is this the perfect wine to serve your friends and family, but it also makes a great gift for any wine lover in your life! 

San Felice Vigorello 2018

2018 has began with an early sprouting due to high temperatures in March and April, followed by a fairly rainy May. Temperatures have started to rise again since June; summer temperatures in the norm with scattered rains. The month of September in particular saw a succession of sunny days but with a great thermal excursion between day and night, which allowed the grapes a proper phenolic and aromatic maturation

2021 Edna Valley Pinot Noir

The Pinot Noir grapes come from a highly-coveted vineyard block in Edna Valley, where cooling Pacific night winds create a unique microclimate ideal for ripening. We use low intervention methods championed in old-world regions like Burgundy, resulting in a nuanced and balanced wine that reflects its terroir. Each Juliet Eco-Magnum™ contains two bottles’ worth of wine that stays fresh for six weeks once opened.

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