Wine has evolved from a culinary tradition to the art of living. Considered as a cultural representation of elegant living, wine has always been a synonym for celebrations. And while speaking about holiday parties that focus on bonding over food and conversations, there are countless opportunities for sipping a glass of wine.
But appreciating wine and purchasing one are two different things. It is quite easy to get confused with the wine choice when it’s your turn to bring it to the party. So, either invited to a small dinner party or a lavish affair, here is a guide to get five best wines that are versatile, go well with food, and make you and other guests feel festive during holidays.
1. Red Wine- La Crema Pinot Noir, Sonoma
Apart from health benefits, red wine symbolizes love. So, if you are thinking of bringing wine to a party, nothing could be a better option than La Crema Pinot Noir. The flavors of this wine may vary from fruity to earthy, with a strong aroma. Likewise, it is paired with food with a stronger taste. Best accompanied by a dinner menu, this dry wine can go with both vegetables or meats. Admirable yet affordable, you can’t go wrong with La Crema for a holiday party.
2. White Wine- Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Valdadige 2019, Italy
If you want to bring white wine to the holiday party, go for one which is not too acidic or unusual. People often love wines they are familiar with. You can serve light crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio with lighter tasting food. With its straw yellow color and sweet apple taste, Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio pairs a wide variety of seafood, fresh vegetables, and Italian cuisine. As this wine brings out the subtle flavors in food, you can always bank on Pinot Grigio when it comes to holiday parties.
3. Sparkling Wine- Bollinger La Grande Annee Brut Champagne, France
Sparkling wine, whether locally produced or come from regions like Champagne, has predominantly fruity and nutty flavors. This wine has bubbles that make it refreshing and perfect for raising a toast. Sparkling wine not only produces a celebratory tone but is also added to many savory dishes. Although expensive, a sparkling wine like Bollinger is an exquisite match for ethnic and eastern dishes. Crisp, thirst-quenching, and sensational, this wine can be used on any occasion round the year. So if you’re planning for a holiday party with your loved one, don’t forget to splurge on bubbly to show-off.
4. Rose Wine- Art of Rose-Miraval, Provence
Rose wine is trending. Recently, the Miraval Rose, owned by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, has increased its production of rose wines from 200,000 to 500,000 bottles. Not only affordable, but this wine is also sophisticated yet comfortable to choose at the same time. With ample acidity, Miraval stands with a variety of food. As it stands between the red and white wine spectrum, it can blend with a variety of cuisines associated with both. Roses keep your palate fresh and cut through the richness of oily and spicy dishes. Its versatility, affordability, and elegance have found its way to exclusive rose wine tastings and holiday parties.
5. Dessert Wine- Saracco Moscato d’Asti 2018, Piedmont
Post-dinner sweet dishes are universal. And when followed by a dessert wine, this ‘too sweet’ wine complements your treat. The golden rule to pair a pudding wine with food is that the wine should be as sweet as the dish you serve. The creamy texture and fruity flavor of Moscato draws the same effect. But if you want to experiment with this wine, spicy cheese is another perfect combination. Dessert is an incredible way to end a dinner, but not the after-dinner conversation that picks pace with the glass of Moscato wine.
Conclusion
Wine choice can make and break your party. And, if you believe buying one will burn a hole in your pocket, think again. There are a variety of wines that are equally good yet inexpensive. A few of the options are also mentioned above. So, now when you have known your party-wine better, relax and pop open a bottle to enjoy your holiday party with your loved ones.