Top Wine Picks for Holiday Entertaining and Gift Giving

Whether you’re shopping for a gift, picking up something to bring to a holiday party or hosting a party of your own, wine is always a good choice. A massive growth in the number of wine producers around the world has brought prices down and created a wine market ripe with choices for consumers of all tastes and budgets. The following list includes some of the top white, red and rosé wines for holiday entertaining and gift giving, with a particular focus on affordable selections that fall under $15.

1. 2003 Abadía Retuerta Rívola: If you love earthy, smoky flavors or have someone on your gift list who does, this Spanish red wine with undertones of black cherry could be the perfect pick for your holiday entertaining.

2. 2004 Bogle Petite Sirah: Although Petite Sirahs are often known for being overwhelming, this California red wine with tart blackberry and blueberry notes is soft enough to be paired with a variety of dishes.

3. 2004 Hahn Estates Merlot: Nicolaus Hahn’s Monterey winery is responsible for this Merlot with licorice notes and peppery undertones, often paired with heavier dishes. At $14, it’s one of the winery’s best buys.

4. 2004 Paraiso Riesling: This is an Alsace-style Riesling from Monterey County, California, which is known for its dry, sweet yet acidic flavor with hints of green apple and peach. It’s a steal at $14.

5. 2005 Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda: This red wine is one of the most affordable on the list at $9, but is not short on flavor. Bonarda grapes were used to create this juicy wine produced in Tuscany.

6. 2005 Hogue Pinot Grigio: For only $10, you can lighten up the party with this floral/citrus-noted Pinot Grigio, which has become one of the most popular types of white wine in the Pacific Northwest.

7. 2005 Iron Horse Rosato di Sangiovese: This is the only rosé that made the list, but considering the stigma that this variety of wine has historically had among connoisseurs, it is a step in the right direction. This $12 bottle from the T Bar T Vineyard in California’s Alexander Valley offers a full body and Italian flavor profile.

8. 2005 Torres Vina Esmeralda: For only $14, you can give the gift of one of the most delicious Spanish white wines. This wine has a jasmine scent and medium body, and comes from the Penedès region, which is just west of Barcelona.

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Author (Tisamit). Submitted on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 Time: 6:37 AM

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