Tips for Holiday Wine Shopping

 
  Thanksgiving is just around the corner and then it's Christmas!  I know many of you, like myself are searching for special wines for the holidays.  Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task for even the most wine savvy person--with a few helpful tips you can easily find what you're looking for and impress all your friends and family with crowd pleasing wines.

  Finding great whites can be the most difficult task in my opinion.  There aren't as many choices now that summer has passed and finding ones that appeal to everyone is even harder.  Try to avoid Sauvignon Blanc as a single varietal as it can be too acidic and tart for some and also try to avoid Chardonnay as a single varietal as it can have too much oak influence for some.  Blends of both varietals as well as Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne are great for parties, because they are more floral and have aspects of both bright acidity and subtle oak that tend to please everyone.

  Reds on the other hand can be challenging as well, but try to get a variety of choices and you will always have something for everyone.  Pinot Noirs are great, because both white and red wine drinkers alike will find joy in them--try to find ones that have soft tannins and aren't too acidic.  Syrahs tend to be great for parties, especially ones that are more jammy than earthy.  No party however, is complete without a great Cab--find ones that are full bodied with good structure and a long finish and you will truly be the host with the most!

  Lastly, Sparkling wines are a must for any holiday party.  I love crisp and bright Champagne, but you can also find Prosecco and Cava that are also great on their own and delicious with a splash of your favorite nectar.  On the sweeter side, Brachetto, Moscato D'Asti and Port are great with many desserts and lovely on their own.  With all these great varietals, don't be surpised if you find your guests quite smitten with you before the evening is over!

  For any other ideas on wines for the holidays, please feel free to visit me at Robert Ramsay Cellars, Seattle Wine Outlet or Greenlake Wines--Happy Holidays!


Ciao!
Erin