The Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva de Familia from Santa Carolina Vineyards is juicy yet round with just enough backbone to make it exceptionally food-friendly, from appetizers to entrees and even chocolate desserts. Nice host gift, too.
Wines
La Font de Notre Dame Gigondas is a Big, Bold Red for the Holidays
There’s a beefiness to this big, bold, red wine—there’s a velvetiness too, making it elegant. La Font de Notre Dame’s Gigondas has structure, lots of body, and a sturdiness that makes it substantial. It’s perfect alongside roasted leg of lamb, short ribs, and beef stew. It’s a special wine you’ll want to celebrate with or give as a gift.
Domaine J. Laurens is a French Sparkler Every Bit as Good as Prosecco
If you like the toasty, almondy flavor of champagne, Domaine J. Laurens’ sparkling wine is made in the same style as champagne, but it’s a bargain at $17.
Santa Carolina’s Carménère is a Rich Red Wine for $10
Carménère was once thought of exclusively as a blending grape (it’s also one of the original six varietals from Bordeaux), but in this wine, it takes center stage. You’ll find it at your wine store for about $10—an unbelievable bargain, if you ask us.
Chateau Vieux Poirier, Organic & Priced at a Sweet Spot
The 2014 Chateau Vieux Poirier is a certified organic red Bordeaux, made primarily of Malbec, which gives it a lusciousness with fun tannins that go really well with food. There’s a bit of Merlot here, too, to soften the structure of the wine.
Finca el Origen, a Unique Red Wine Blend
Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec—just those two grape varietals—is a unique red wine blend. If you love red wine, Finca el Origen’s Estate Blend from Argentina is a wine to try.
