Celebrate the Season: Exceptional Wines for Holiday Gatherings
December is here, and as we welcome the festive season, there’s no better time to gather, celebrate, and enjoy some truly special wines. This month, we’ve put together a collection that’s perfect for every occasion, from cozy nights by the fire to lively holiday feasts with friends and family. Whether you’re sipping by the tree or toasting the New Year, these wines will elevate your holiday moments with each delicious sip.
December Wine Selections:
Bitrittesi Wines - 2022 Wood Valley Vineyard Sonoma Valley Chardonnay – $40.00
Why We Chose This:
This Chardonnay stood out for its bright, refreshing character and subtle complexity—perfect for celebrating the season. We love how it embodies the crisp, vibrant spirit of Sonoma Valley, making it a fantastic choice for holiday parties or an elegant starter to your Christmas dinner.
Tasting Notes:
Expect aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and a hint of toasted almond. The palate is bright and lively with flavors of Meyer lemon, ripe pear, and a touch of vanilla from light oak aging. This wine pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, buttery seafood dishes, or creamy brie cheese.
2021 Merriam Pinot Noir, Diana's Vineyard, Russian River Valley – $56.00
Why We Chose This:
A beautiful expression of the Russian River Valley, this Pinot Noir is all about elegance and warmth. It’s a wine that feels right at home on your holiday table, whether paired with a festive roast or enjoyed with a good conversation by the fireplace.
Tasting Notes:
Delicate aromas of red cherry, cranberry, and a hint of baking spice. The palate is silky and smooth, with flavors of raspberry, pomegranate, and a touch of earthy forest floor. Perfect with dishes like roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or even your holiday ham.
Martorana Family Winery - 2021 Dry Creek Valley Petite Sirah – $46.00
Why We Chose This:
If you’re looking for something bold and rich to warm up your winter nights, this Petite Sirah is the way to go. We chose it for its robust character and deep, dark fruit flavors that are perfect for chilly evenings and hearty holiday meals.
Tasting Notes:
On the nose, you’ll get blackberry, plum, and a hint of black pepper. The palate is intense, with layers of blueberry jam, dark chocolate, and spice. It’s perfect for pairing with braised short ribs, grilled sausages, or rich chocolate desserts.
Spicy Vines - 2021 Zin Master Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel – $48.00
Why We Chose This:
Dry Creek Valley is known for producing some of the best Zinfandels, and this one is a showstopper. It’s a bold, spicy wine that’s perfect for holiday gatherings—think festive dinners and lively toasts with friends.
Tasting Notes:
Bold aromas of black cherry, dried fig, and cloves. The palate bursts with flavors of ripe blackberry, black pepper, and a hint of sweet tobacco. Enjoy it with barbecue ribs, a juicy holiday roast, or your favorite spicy pasta dish.
Blue Rock Vineyard - 2021 Baby Blue – $34.00
Why We Chose This:
This blend is an easy-going crowd-pleaser, perfect for those casual holiday get-togethers. It’s versatile, delicious, and just the right wine to have on hand when friends pop by unexpectedly or when you’re looking for something to sip while decorating the tree.
Tasting Notes:
Lively aromas of plum, blueberry, and violets, leading to a smooth, balanced palate with flavors of black cherry, cocoa, and a hint of vanilla. It’s a perfect match for pizza, charcuterie boards, or even that cozy weeknight pasta.
Utopium - 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon – $53.00
Why We Chose This:
This Cab is the perfect way to end the year on a high note. It’s rich, smooth, and just the right amount of bold—perfect for those intimate holiday dinners or celebrating the New Year in style.
Tasting Notes:
Deep aromas of cassis, black currant, and a touch of leather. The palate is lush with flavors of dark cherry, espresso, and a hint of toasted oak. Pair it with a juicy steak, slow-roasted lamb, or dark chocolate truffles
Cheers to a Joyful December!
We hope these wines add a touch of magic to your holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a grand family dinner, enjoying a quiet night by the fire, or ringing in the New Year with friends, we’re here to make every moment a little more special.
Happy Holidays,
The Top Flight Wine Club Team