The Best and Unusual Wines for Christmas and Other Holidays

As a former wine distributor, I am constantly asked by friends and relatives for suggestions for wines that they can serve at their gatherings. It is great that they are willing to try something new and venture outside of their comfort zone once in a while, and I'm hoping you too will consider something different for your next Holiday gathering. Here are a few of my current suggestions that are guaranteed to intrigue, delight and perhaps even get you to find a new favorite!

2006 Chateau Les Tuileries - Bordeaux Blanc ($16)

Every party needs a white wine, but please stop with the standard Chardonnay! This French white Bordeaux is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Perfect with seafood, cream sauces, and white meat dishes, you will find a crispness from the strong (but not overbearing) acidity. This wine is slightly pale in color with hints of wild flowers on the nose from the Semillon. The finish is dry without being steely, like so many new world Sauvignon Blancs. You will get a bit of white pepper mid-palate which helps compliment many dishes - including sushi!

Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto ($25)

Nothing says Holidays like a sparkling wine and nothing says food-friendly quite like a Rose. This unique bright pink wine from the Piedmont region of Italy has a devoted following that might cause you to stock up early. This is a red sparkling wine that is sweet and still subtlety lush with flavors of ripe raspberry and ripe, juicy strawberry. Consider pairing this wine with that roast turkey, chocolate-based dessert, fresh fruit and pecan pie. Or just starting the night with a toast - just have plenty of bottles!

A to Z Pinot Noir ($15)

Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley of Oregon is usually some of the best, and A to Z is always a safe bet. Yes, cheaper Pinot can be found, but none that have the bold aromatics with drinkability like this wine. Get a good wine glass and pour yourself some of this darker wine. Even novice drinkers will enjoy the dark spices on the nose and solid palate flavors of blackberry, raspberry, black cherry and hints of earth (don't worry, this isn't a barnyard Burgundy and earth is a good thing). The natural acidity is perfect for a wide range of foods including most traditional Christmas dishes. Honestly- I'd serve it with anything and not worry about the pairing.

Pikes SGM, Clare Valley ($25)

I am a sucker for blends and Pikes Shiraz Grenache Mourvedre (the SGM on the label) is a rich red with a broad palate of complex flavors that pair perfectly with your hearty meals. And what isn't to like? Shiraz from Australia is inky dark, fruity and juicy. Grenache adds a hint of drier notes (I even think a bit dusty) and the Mourvedre just brings roundness and class. You'll find mixed red and black fruits with subtle notes of white pepper, anise and oak. Perfect for those who barbecue or serve roasted red meats.

Chocovine Chocolate Wine ($12)

Time to really surprise your guests, and I have the perfect wine for this. A dessert wine from Holland, Chocovine is made with French Cabernet magically combined with a rich dark Chocolate from Holland. This pairing creates a decadent, silky smooth drink, which I recommend you serve chilled and/or on the rocks. This was once described to me at a party as "YooHoo for adults".