Christmas Cheer: Five Wines That Make Exceptional Gifts

Just in time for the festive season, I have curated a list of mouthwatering wines for you to enjoy with friends and family, or to give as gifts. These wines each offer incredible value and are well worth exploring. Whether you are rocking around the Christmas tree or sitting by a cozy fireplace, these are wines that will bring a smile.

Arniston Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2024
Coastal Region, South Africa

A crisp and energetic Sauvignon Blanc, crafted from grapes grown in South Africa’s coastal vineyards, which are cooled by ocean breezes. The grapes retain their freshness and acidity, resulting in a vibrant style of Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is fragrant, with tropical fruit, grassy and citrus notes. The floral and fruit notes blossom on the crisp palate, with bright citrus and fruit on the lingering finish. Thoroughly delightful and excellent value. It’s a great match with seafood, salads or Chicken Alfredo, and also makes a crowd-pleasing aperitif. It’s Fairtrade and Vegan certified, with each purchase supporting marine conservation efforts in South Africa, helping to rescue and rehabilitate critically endangered African penguins and release them back into the wild. The perfect gift for the eco-conscious friend.

Dry• 13% • LCBO# 33147 • $15

Muga Rioja 2024
La Rioja, Spain

A delightful discovery! Spain’s Rioja is famous for its red wines, but wait til you try this white wine! It’s a rich and flavourful wine crafted from a blend of three grape varietals: Viura, Garnacha Blanca and Malvasía de Rioja. You’ll find delicious aromas and flavours of white florals, lime and peach, with a hint of salinity. Pair it with smoked fish or with soft cheeses.

Dry • 13.5% • LCBO Vintages# 958736 • $18.95

Ogier Côtes du Ventoux 2022
Côtes du Ventoux, Rhône, France

Ogier was founded in 1859 in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and is known for classic Rhône craftsmanship. This is a classic Rhône red, made from Grenache and Syrah grapes. It’s dry and robust, with aromas and flavours of ripe dark fruit, dried herbs (juniper), spice and smoke. It pairs well with roast duck, grilled meats, hearty stews and aged cheeses, making it a favourite pairing for winter cuisine.

Dry • 14.5% • LCBO# 569095 • $15.55

Domaine Gouron Chinon 2023
Chinon, Loire, France

Cabernet Franc is the signature red wine of the Loire Valley, and accounts for 29% of the total plantings. According to wine experts, it may be France’s oldest grape variety, possibly brought to France by Gallic tribes who traded with the Aquitains from the Basque region of the Pyrenees. This is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for the holidays to give as a gift or to share at a meal. Find silky notes of tart cherry, raspberry, red pepper, savoury herbs, with softly polished tannins. Definitely a buy-again wine. Pair it with cabbage rolls or winter stews.

Extra Dry • 13% • LCBO Vintages# 470963 • $18.95

Domaine De Peyanne Vieilles Vignes Saumur Les Amandiers 2018
Saumur, Loire, France

An elegant wine with fragrant Damson plum, tart cherry, dried rose petal and mocha on the nose. The smooth palate repeats these expressions, with notes of sage, pepper and a hint of licorice. The texture is velvety, with soft tannins and the savoury finish whispers a hint of licorice. Pair it with the Christmas turkey or with raclette. It makes an excellent gift wine.

Extra Dry • 12.5% • LCBO# 42441 • $26.95

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

For more wine and food discovery from Jane Staples, visit www.bellovinoj.com

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