Three Stunning Wines For the Holidays

The holidays are upon us! If you’re still searching for a great gift idea, or something stunning to serve with the meal, consider the following wines. Any of them would add an elegant statement to your holiday gathering.

Chateau Carbonnieux Blanc, Pessac-Leognan 

Grand Cru Classé de Graves 2013

Chateau Carbonnieux is one of the largest vineyards in the Graves region with the first chateau built around 1380. The grapes are cultivated near Bordeaux on clay-limestone slopes in deep gravely soil, which gives this wine a nice minerally base. Chateau Carbonnieux Blanc is crafted from 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon grapes. The nose is an intricate bouquet of floral and apricot nectar. The rich, juicy flavors of peach and apricot cling to the palette followed by a tart orange-peel finish that delightfully lingers on.

Chateau d'Esclans 

Rock Angel Rosé 2014

This is not your mama’s blush! Rock Angel is, in a word, elegant. The rebranded estate-bottled rosé comes from Chateau d’Esclans, located in France’s Provence region. The Grenache (and Rolle) grapes rock this wine! The nose is composed of floral and herbs: pleasant, hinting at something special to come. The bright flavors of peach and cherry, with just a hint of pear, makes Rock Angel seem more refined than most rosés, and wonderfully balanced. The smooth, slightly honeyed finish is captivating. At $35 a bottle, it is definitely time to rethink your pink for the holidays.

Baron de Chirel 

Rioja 2010 Reserve

Crafted from Spain’s most famous native grapes, the Tempranillo, the Baron de Chirel Rioja is made from grapes that are 80 to 110 years old. This “new era” Rioja is aged between 18 to 24 months in Allier oak barrels to produce a distinctive “old world” wine. An appealing aroma of spicy blueberries and leather develops into the wonderful flavors of elderberry, cherry and tobacco. Well balanced on the palate with soft tannins and a long, pleasant finish, this wine suggests opulent living and graceful dining.

Any of these wines would make exceptional holiday gifts for friends, family, or simply as a treat for yourself.  Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Warm Kwanza Wishes, and A Blessed Yule. Cheers!

~ Joy