The Holiday Bottle Shop

Holiday Bottle Shop

After planning, cooking, and decorating, selecting the perfect bottle to serve or bring to your holiday party can be the last thing on your mind. That's why we compiled a list of the best wines and spirits for absolutely any occasion this season. Throwing an unconventional Friendsgiving get together? Constructing an elegant charcuterie board for a festive cocktail party? Spending a cozy evening by the fire after the chaos dies down? We’ve got you covered.

Here are 50 wines and spirits to seek out this holiday season.

white

RED

red

sparkling

rosé

spirit

white wines

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red wines

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duckhorn Vineyards 2023 oakville napa valley cabernet sauvignon

variety cabernet sauvignon

tasting notes black cherry, plum, crushed violet, dried thyme, cardamom

Not all Napa Cab tastes the same, and Duckhorn’s district Cabernets are a good way to find out why. This one comes from Oakville District, the heart of Napa Cab country, where vines in well-drained loam produce fruit that’s rich without going heavy. 2023 was a vintage that rewarded patience: a wet winter and late budbreak stretched the season, and the result is a Cab with real depth and the acidity to stay lively after 16 months in French oak. It also happens to be the vintage that marks Duckhorn’s 50th year. Expect black cherry and plum up front, then dried thyme, cardamom, and a lift of violet. Polished tannins and a savory streak make it a natural with prime rib, lamb, or anything involving wild mushrooms. Look for the gold 50th Anniversary label. Long before there was a winery, Dan and Margaret Duckhorn’s house was where friends showed up with a few good bottles, and five decades later, that’s still the best way to share one. Perfect For: Being the friend who shows up with the good bottle

buy this wine $80.00

spirits

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tres agaves organic tres agaves tequila reposado

variety tequila reposado

tasting notes baked tropical fruits, agave, oak, citrus

The fresh Margarita at Tres Agaves Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Lounge built such a following that it inspired Tres Agaves Tequila: a USDA-certified organic, 100% blue Weber agave tequila that emphasizes the characteristics of the agave without extra additives or flavors. The brand’s Reposado carries that same commitment: crafted clean with no shortcuts and no added coloring, just slow-cooked agave, traditional distillation, and well-managed barrel-aging. Rested for nine months in repurposed Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey barrels, this 80-proof reposado balances bright agave and citrus flavors with the warmth of charred oak. It opens with baked tropical fruit before revealing its cooked agave character, with subtle hints of caramel, black pepper, and vanilla. Sip it neat on the rocks to appreciate its complexities, or let it gussy up a Margarita, Paloma, or Old Fashioned. The spice and caramel notes fit right in alongside holiday and cold-weather favorites like tamales, meaty stews, salty cheeses, or grilled shrimp (and even flan, if you have a sweet tooth). Perfect For: Sipping neat and elevating classic tequila cocktails

buy this spirit $39.99

sparkling

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J Vineyards Brut Rosé NV Sparkling

variety sparkling rosé

tasting notes Ripe strawberry, nectarine, grilled peach, blood orange

If you’re hosting brunches this season, J Vineyards Brut Rosé will be a hit with guests. Founded in 1986, the J Vineyards estate was built specifically for sparkling wine, a precision that’s evident in the bottle and on the palate. Even among the excellent sparklers in its portfolio, the Brut Rosé is a standout. The blend of varietals is led by Pinot Noir and rounded out with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Three years of resting en tirage adds additional depth and complexity. This expressive wine greets you with citrus and spring floral aromas. Effervescent bubbles give way to flavors of ripe strawberry, nectarine, and blood orange, balanced by a hint of minerality and a sea spray finish. The Brut Rosé's acidity pairs well with Eggs Benedict, prosciutto, mushroom tarts, or goat cheese salads. It works well at the dinner table too, a fine complement to a roasted pork tenderloin, or pour it alongside buttermilk pound cake topped with peaches and candied almonds for a memorable dessert course. Perfect For: A savory brunch, hors d’oeuvres, light dinner, or buttery dessert

buy this wine $50.00

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La rioja alta Viña alberdi reserva tinto 2021

variety Tempranillo

tasting notes Redcurrant, raspberry, cherry, vanilla, cedar, and caramel

La Rioja Alta has been a part of the storied neighborhood of wineries around Haro since 1890, where it still remains as a great example of the region’s classic style. If you’re looking to explore the region, Viña Alberdi is a good point of entry. Made from 100% Tempranillo grapes that are planted in estate vineyards on clay-limestone soils in Rodezno and Labastida, the region’s Basque corner. The exceptional harvest and weather made for a 2021 Viña Alberdi that won a Selección Especial designation — the second in the winery’s history. The classification is only earned by being aged three years before release, with one of those years in the barrel. (For this wine, two of those years are spent in American oak barrels made in the winery’s own cooperage.) In the glass, it’s deep garnet with a ruby rim, with aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, and cherry, with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, cedar, and caramel indicative of the barrel-aging process. With a broad mouthfeel and layered finish, it makes a holiday dinner feel more complete. Perfect For: Casual dining, barbecue, creamy dishes, and roasts

buy this wine $28.00

CVNE monopole 2025

variety viura

tasting notes Green apple, floral pear, and citrus

When it comes to Spanish wine, particularly from Rioja, you wouldn’t be incorrect to imagine an expansive variety of elegant reds. That doesn’t mean, however, that there isn’t a long history with white wine. Monopole, registered by Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (CVNE) in 1915, is the oldest white wine brand in Spain. Monopole Blanco is made from Rioja’s signature white grape in the cooler Alta region, grown both by longtime partner growers and on own vineyards, with its loam-clay soils. The grapes undergo an eight-hour skin contact maceration before being transferred to a pneumatic press. Then the juice is fermented in stainless steel to preserve the wine’s fresh fruit and floral characteristics. In the glass, it’s pale yellow with green highlights and has an expressive and lively nose of green apple and pear. Monopole Blanco is bright and cheerful, with a balanced acidity that makes it ideal for sipping at spirited gatherings. Pour it with appetizers like shrimp cocktail and oysters, or for dinner with white fish or grilled chicken. Perfect For: Sharing with friends while sampling oysters and appetizers

buy this wine $17.00

el pacto el pacto del alto najerilla blanco 2023

variety Viura, Malvasía, Garnacha Blanca

tasting notes Hay, cream, and pastries, with subtle citrus undertones

Founded in the historic Alto Najerilla and Sonsierra areas, Viñedos El Pacto is focused on reviving village wines and traditional winegrowing, using old vines that have been protected and cultivated for generations. Grapes for the 2023 Blanco come from vines planted in iron-rich clay between 1915 and 1974 in villages known for fine whites, and include a blend of Viura, Malvasía, Garnacha Blanca, and the little-known Jaina. The winemaking skill and dedication to the land earned the wine 96 points in Tim Atkin MW’s 2026 Rioja Report. This Blanco is hand-harvested and macerated as whole clusters, then fermented with native yeasts. It ages for a year on its fine lees in a large oak vat and a mix of barrel types. The result is a straw-yellow Blanco carrying a nose of hay, cream, and pastry with subtle citrus undertones. A long, vibrant palate is lifted with acidity, firm structure, and a creamy texture credited to old-vine fruit. It holds its own on a holiday table, so feel free to serve with roast turkey or herb-roasted pork loin, though it also pairs wonderfully with lighter fare like nutty cheeses. Perfect For: Main courses and New Year's resolutions

buy this wine $36.00

Villa Antinori 2023 rosso

variety RED BLEND (Predominantly Sangiovese and Cabernet grapes)

tasting notes Tobacco, juniper berries, spices, dark fruit, coffee, hazelnut

The 2023 Villa Antinori Rosso is the result of nearly a century of expertise. First crafted in 1928 by Piero Antinori’s father, Marchese Niccolò Antinori, the Toscana IGT is the family’s signature wine, crafted to capture both the rich family history and the identity of the Tuscan estates. Today, it’s a predominantly Sangiovese-Cabernet blend, gently extracted to preserve the aromatic compounds of the wine, which is then aged in French and Hungarian oak barriques. Ruby red and captivating on the nose, the Villa Antinori Rosso fills the palate with notes of dark fruit and juniper berry, with lively hints of spice and coffee. Supple tannins define a freshness that balances the wine’s richer components, while a generous finish persists on the tongue. Pour it alongside Italian classics like risotto, lasagna Bolognese, or grilled steak. At around $20, it’s an easy way to gift the taste of Tuscany. Perfect For: Italian dinners and fond reminiscing that extends past dessert

buy this wine $22.00

PARTNER PICK

stolpman vineyards santa barbara sauvignon blanc 2025

variety sauvignon blanc

tasting notes Passion fruit, grapefruit, herbs

Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you have to abandon the known fan-favorites in favor of special occasion bottlings. Sometimes in the mix of the endless event chaos, it’s nice to have a sip of something familiar and easy-drinking. That’s why it’s always smart to have a crisp, refreshing bottle of Sauvignon Blanc chilled and ready to go. We love this expression from Stolpman Vineyards in Santa Barbara with vibrant tropical fruit, citrus, and fresh herb notes.

buy this wine $25.00

françois et julien pinon vouvray silex noir 2025

variety chenin blanc

tasting notes Baked apples, cinnamon, honey

Chenin Blanc is an extremely versatile grape, making it a great weapon to have in your holiday hosting arsenal. There are bone-dry, sweet, and even sparkling expressions available out there that all deserve exploration, but for meals filled with autumnal flavors like cranberries, sweet potatoes, and baking spices, we love finding a bottle with just a touch of sweetness. This expression from François et Julien Pinon in the Loire Valley’s Vourvray appellation provides just that. It’s ever so slightly off-dry, with bright acidity and notes of baked apples, honeysuckle, flint, and fall spices.

buy this wine $36.00

littorai wines sonoma coast chardonnay 2024

variety chardonnay

tasting notes Lemon curd, vanilla, minerals

California Chardonnay can be divisive, but Littorai’s well-balanced, refined expressions are guaranteed to win over both sides of the great Cali Chard debate. This wine exemplifies the Sonoma Coast’s breezy, precise style with refreshing acidity, invigorating citrus notes, and just a touch of creamy lemon curd to round out the palate. It’s the perfect complement to butter-laden potato or seafood dishes, but would also be a joy to sip and contemplate by a roaring fire.

buy this wine $90.00

domaine de villaine bouzeron aligoté 2024

variety Aligoté

tasting notes Lemon, chalk, green apple

For those craving the finesse and prestige that come with a showy bottle of White Burgundy without the big price tag, look to the region’s “other” white grape: Aligoté. The grape variety is often overlooked in favor of Chardonnay, but thrives in the village of Bouzeron in southern Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise subregion. This expression from Domaine de Villaine brings zippy lemon zest, green apple, and saline notes. The bright acidity makes it ideal for dinner pairings, from a rich seafood pasta to a roast turkey.

buy this wine $50.00

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alonso & pedrajo Suañé White Reserva 2019

variety Viura, Sauvignon Blanc

tasting notes Baked apples, citrus zest, and white flowers

At the far northwestern edge of Rioja Alta, cool Atlantic air meets the warmth of the Mediterranean. Nearby, in the village of Villalba de Rioja, Alonso & Pedrajo was founded by two local families in 2011. Their 2.5-hectare plot sits on calcareous soils, where every cluster of grapes is picked by hand. Suañé, a spin on the French soigné, meaning “refined,” blends old-vine Viura with Sauvignon Blanc, one of the few international white grapes that the Rioja region has welcomed since 2007. Like the area’s reds, this white is built with patience. It ferments on its skins with native yeasts, spends 13 months in French oak, 4 months in concrete, then rests at least 15 months in the bottle. But it’s a wine well worth the wait: bright amber gold, with aromas of white flower, citrus zest, and baked apple. As the wine opens up in the glass, notes of spice and green pineapple unfold. With a crisp entry and rounded midpalate, each sip lingers. It shines with pork, turkey, or autumnal vegetables, and is a year-round crowd-pleaser. Perfect For: Fireside cheese boards, roast pork, herb-butter turkey, and butternut squash

buy this wine $40.00

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julian haart riesling 1000L 2025

variety riesling

tasting notes Slate, lime zest, green apple

If there are any Riesling skeptics at the table, pour them a taste of this bone dry offering from up-and-coming Mosel talent Julian Haart. The delightfully crisp bottling will almost certainly win them over with its zippy citrus notes and notable minerality. The acidity makes it a stellar pairing for any hearty holiday dishes, plus its embossed red label makes it a wonderfully festive addition to the table.

buy this wine $29.00

Domaine Bellegarde jurançon sec 'la pierre blanche' 2024

variety Petit Manseng, Gros Manseng

tasting notes Almonds, citrus, baked apples

Though historically known for sweet wines, the Jurançon region in southern France also produces deliciously textured dry whites from local grapes Petit and Gros Manseng. The wines tend to offer blazing acidity while still delivering a mouth-coating richness that makes them the perfect balance for winter meals. This bottling from Domaine Bellegarde is a great example, with rich notes of baked apples, salted almonds, and citrus. The palate has a waxy, rounded texture that ends on a creamy, crème brûlée-like finish (without the sweetness).

buy this wine $30.00

alexana 'hillsides' pinot gris 2025

variety pinot gris

tasting notes Vanilla, pineapple, pear

This Pinot Gris is inspired by the weighty, full-bodied Grand Cru Pinot Gris wines of Alsace, but with an Oregon spin. It comes from a special plot of old-vine Pinot Gris on the hillsides of the Willamette Valley dating back to the 1970s. The wine was aged in a combination of French oak and stainless steel, adding a rich texture while preserving freshness. Lemon meringue, pear, tropical fruit, and vanilla cream notes coat the palate. A lovely pairing for a decadent cheese plate.

buy this wine $35.00

montenidoli Vernaccia di San Gimignano Tradizionale 2024

variety Vernaccia

tasting notes Thyme, orange zest, honeysuckle

San Gimignano is best known for being a charming medieval town and popular tourist pit stop surrounded by ancient walls in the heart of Tuscany. It’s also famed for being a haven for white wines in a region dominated by hearty reds. While there’s certainly room for Chianti and Brunello on the holiday table, we’d like to make the argument for inviting a refreshing Vernaccia di San Gimignano to the party as well. This bottling from Montenidoli offers crisp citrus flavors that make it an easy crowd-pleaser, but it’s the subtle savory notes of dried herbs that make it a real stunner when paired with a winter feast.

buy this wine $35.00

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elena walch schiava 2024

variety schiava

tasting notes Cranberries, wild strawberries, almond

Schiava from northern Italy’s Alto Adige region is a great option for those looking for a light to medium bodied red to pair across a meal. It offers notes of crunchy red fruit (think: tart cranberries, just-ripe cherries, and wild strawberries) alongside fresh mineral and almond notes. The bright acidity and firm tannins help it stand up to a range of holiday dishes, from the pre-dinner prosciutto to roasted sweet potatoes.

buy this wine $24.00

prieler Johanneshöhe Oggau Blaufränkisch 2023

variety Blaufränkisch

tasting notes Blackberries, black pepper, licorice

For those who love the savory notes of a Syrah or Cabernet Franc, don’t overlook Blaufränkisch from Austria. This organically farmed bottling from Prieler in the sunny region of Burgenland brings ripe notes of blackberries and sour cherries with hints of black pepper and licorice. Subtle tannins and bright acidity frame the juicy fruit. It’s an easy-to-love, great value red wine for a crowd.

buy this wine $26.00

hermann j. wiemer Cabernet Franc 2023

variety Cabernet Franc

tasting notes Strawberries, dried herbs, clove

Cabernet Franc is the ultimate red wine for fall pairings. It brings bright red fruits like cranberries, as well as green herb and baking spice notes that perfectly complement warm autumnal seasonings. And there’s some absolutely stellar examples coming out of the Finger Lakes. We love this bottle from Hermann J. Wiemer, grown on the west side of Seneca Lake. It’s medium-bodied with crunchy berry notes with hints of thyme, sage, and clove.

buy this wine $27.00

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podere le ripi 'Sogni e Follia' Rosso di Montalcino 2021

variety sangiovese

tasting notes Cherries, blood orange, leather

Sometimes, the holidays call for an all-out red sauce dinner. And there’s no better match for cheesy eggplant rollatini or rich bolognese than Sangiovese. This expression coming from biodynamically farmed estate vineyards in Montalcino is wonderfully bright and high-toned, with notes of cherries, blood orange, leather, and saline. The firm structure and savory, herbaceous notes help it stand up to all of that heavy sauce.

buy this wine $40.00

red wines

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Château Giscours La Sirène de Giscours 2023

variety Cabernet Sauvignon blend

tasting notes Truffles, black cherries, blackcurrant

When the big slab of prime rib comes out, that’s when it’s time to grab the Bordeaux. This bottle comes from Château Giscours, an esteemed Third Growth estate in the Left Bank’s Margaux appellation. This bottling is technically the “second” wine from Château Giscours, meaning it’s not their prestige label, but the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend still delivers an impressive profile. The palate is full of black cherries, blackcurrant, leather, and truffles, framed by silky tannins.

buy this wine $41.00

bonnet cotton Côte de Brouilly ‘100% Cotton’ 2023

variety gamay

tasting notes Black pepper, earth, strawberries

Cru Beaujolais is a holiday classic for a reason. It brings the fruit-forward approachability of Gamay, but with the structure and complexity required for hearty food pairings. This bottling comes from the Côte de Brouilly Cru, known for its steep slopes and volcanic soils. It leans into Gamay’s savory side, with a heavy sprinkling of black pepper, thyme, and earth accenting the lush strawberry and cherry flavors.

buy this wine $42.00

evesham wood Temperance Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2023

variety pinot noir

tasting notes Cherries, mushroom, vanilla

A well-balanced Pinot Noir is essential for any Thanksgiving table, and this quintessential Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from Evesham Wood definitely fits the bill. Coming from the Temperance Hill Vineyard in the Eola-Amilty Hills AVA, it pops with pure, concentrated flavors of ripe cherries and strawberries with hints of mushrooms, soil, vanilla, and baking spices.

buy this wine $52.00

Domaine Delagrange Volnay Vieilles Vignes 2023

variety pinot noir

tasting notes Cherries, cinnamon, herbs

Taking it easy on the cooking side this year? Snagging a stunning bottle of Burgundy can elevate any spread. Even a simple roast chicken (or rotisserie chicken from the grocery store) will feel elevated when paired with this complex bottle from Domaine Delagrange. Made with grapes sourced from old vines, the nose is welcoming with warm aromas of cinnamon, herbs, cherries, and earth.

buy this wine $78.00

Conde de los andes tempranillo 2016

variety Tempranillo

tasting notes Red fruits, ripe plum, balsamic, cocoa powder, and tobacco leaf

Calados, or underground stone tunnels, are carved into the earth beneath the village of Ollauri and constitute Rioja’s extraordinary underground cellars. These cellars are the historic home of Conde de los Andes, and still hold bottles from the brand’s past. In 2014, the Murúa family took over the cellars and the Conde de los Andes name, committed to upholding the traditions of the region. This Tempranillo is part of that legacy, made using vines that are around 50 years old. It ages for 14 months in French oak rather than American oak, then rests for a year in the bottle. A warm 2016 and ideal altitude produced a season that Rioja’s Regulatory Council rated “Very Good.” The result is a lively, cherry red Tempranillo full of red fruit flavors, ripe plum, and a hint of wild Mediterranean herbs. It’s fresh and juicy, but structured, making it a versatile companion to any gathering or meal. It tables well with savory, herbed meats like lamb, ribs, or sausage, or before or after meals accompanied by cured cheeses. Perfect For: Herby meats, winter stews, and candlelit dinners

buy this wine $51.00

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r. Lopez de heredia Rioja Viña Tondonia Reserva 2013

variety Red Blend (Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuelo)

tasting notes Dried cherry, cranberry, orange peel, tobacco, cedar, and truffle

Founded in Haro in 1877, López de Heredia is one of Rioja’s oldest wineries, and still makes wine the way its founders did. Viña Tondonia stands out amongst the family’s vineyards planted in calcareous soils by the Ebro River which gives its wines their signature finesse. The 2013 Reserva blends Tempranillo with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo, handled with expertise and patience that begets excellence in a bottle. Though Rioja’s rules about Reserva require one year in the barrel, the Tondonia spends six in American oak. It’s then clarified with egg whites, bottled unfiltered, and rested in the cellar for several more years. The 2013 only began reaching shelves around 12 years after harvest. Its high scores (including 97 points from Vinous) are evident in the glass: deep garnet opening up to black fruit and dried roses, layers of truffle and spice, and a medium body with a complex finish. It’s a wine you don’t drink in a hurry, made for relaxed evenings and hearty meals. Perfect For: Gifting to a wine lover or sharing over a romantic holiday evening

buy this wine $62.00

PARTNER PICK

silver oak alexander valley holiday gift

variety cabernet sauvignon

tasting notes Strawberry, cherry, vanilla, cedar, nutmeg

Ray Duncan and Justin Meyer had a bold vision to create a California Cabernet Sauvignon, aged exclusively in American oak. It’s been more than 50 years since then, and the Duncan family is still proudly upholding that creed. The Alexander Valley Cabernet is sourced in northern Sonoma County and, like the rest of Silver Oak’s portfolio, is handled with patience, with 24 months of aging in barrel and 14 in bottle. Bright strawberry and cherry flavors give way to warm notes of vanilla, with additional hints of cedar and festive nutmeg thanks to the influence of American oak. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and composed, with polished tannins and a lively acidity that departs with a juicy finish. It’s fresh enough to pair with nutty cheese boards and structured enough to accompany dishes like herb-crusted prime rib, roast duck, or mushroom bourguignon. Perfect For: Gifting to the Cabernet lover in your life

buy this wine $90.00

PARTNER PICK

buy this wine $52.00

bisol Crede Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore 2024

variety Glera

tasting notes White flowers, lemon zest, honeydew melon

Some Proseccos are best suited for topping off Aperol Spritzes and Sbagliatos, but for a holiday toast, it’s important to find a bottle that also tastes great on its own. For this scenario, look to the hilly subregion of Valdobbiadene, known for producing incredibly fresh, aromatic, and high-acid expressions of Prosecco. This bottling from Bisol has aromas of white flowers and lemon zest followed up by a chalky, mineral-driven finish lifted by a flurry of bubbles.

buy this wine $25.00

rodica Sparkling Refošk 2023

variety Refošk

tasting notes Black cherry, blackberry, black pepper

Sparkling red wines are a rarity in the wine world, especially outside of Italy’s fizzy, fruity Lambrusco category. But we find a bubbly red to be incredibly festive for the holiday season, and a treat well worth seeking out. This bottle from Rodica in Slovenia is a great example, made from the local Refošk grape. With vineyards within sight of the Mediterranean Sea, the sunkissed vines provide ample juicy, red and blue fruit notes to the bubble. Meanwhile, Refošk’s signature peppery spice shines through for some added savory complexity.

buy this wine $25.00

mas candí Corpinnat Brut Nature 2023

variety Xarel-lo blend

tasting notes Saline, green apples, lemon zest

Corpinnat is similar to Cava in that it’s a great value sparkling wine made in the traditional method from the Penedès region of Spain. But unlike Cava, Corpinnat has strict regulations around organic farming and winemaking, and a commitment to the region’s local grapes. This example from Mas Candí blends native grapes Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada, and Sumoll, hand harvested from estate vineyards. The result is a crisp, citrus-driven sparkling wine with a vibrant salinity. A stellar budget-friendly bubbly.

buy this wine $22.00

charles le bel Inspiration 1818 Brut NV

variety Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

tasting notes Chalk, citrus, orange blossom

While holiday parties can be a great excuse to spend an exorbitant amount of time scoping out the shelves of specialty shops to curate the ultimate Champagne selection, it’s always good to have a solid option on hand in case you find yourself in the liquor shop last minute. The Charles Le Bel Inspiration 1818 Brut is a stand-out in this scenario, and one that can help avoid any panicked over-budget buys. It’s crisp, bright, and has fine bubbles, making it an easy crowd-pleasing pour.

buy this wine $46.00

domaine lagille L'Inattendue Champagne NV

variety Pinot Meunier

tasting notes Croissants, lemon curd, green apples

Domaine Lagille’s entry-level bottling, “L’Inattendue,” is made with 100 percent Pinot Meunier and aged on the lees for 36 to 42 months. It opens with inviting aromas of orange zest and herbs. The palate is bright with fresh lemon and green apple notes accented by hints of rich, flaky pastry dough. It’s a great value in Champagne, and with its zippy acidity, it can easily work for anything from a festive toast to a full meal.

buy this wine $68.00

Pierre Moncuit Delos Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Champagne NV

variety chardonnay

tasting notes Fresh cream, pastry dough, red apples

A silky, nuanced Grand Cru Champagne doesn’t always have to break the bank. This bottling from Pierre Moncuit in Champagne’s Côtes des Blancs region is an excellent expression of the classic blanc de blancs style, with vibrant, mineral-driven acidity and punchy citrus and orchard fruits. Malolactic fermentation and three years of aging on the lees add an elegant richness that will have your guests thinking you shelled out a lot more.

buy this wine $66.00

Champagne A. Bergère Rose de Saignée Brut NV

variety Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

tasting notes Raspberry, cranberry, brioche

When it comes to sparkling rosé, there are expressions that deliver a crisp, lean profile and others that lean into the unctuous, juicy fruit flavors that the red grapes have to offer. This bottling from Champagne A. Bergère is made with 50 percent Chardonnay and 50 percent Pinot Noir, made using the saignée method, which yields a deeply hued, concentrated rosé bursting with bright raspberry and cranberry notes. That extra layer of richness can help add a touch of comfort to a brisk winter evening.

buy this wine $75.00

Marie-Courtin Résonance Extra Brut NV

variety Pinot Noir

tasting notes Lemon oil, apricots, orange blossoms

Whether it’s for a decadent Christmas morning brunch or a New Year’s toast, it’s always fun to try to track down that one showstopping bottle for the holiday season. One producer that we always find is worth the extra splurge is Marie Courtin, a project that winemaker Dominique Moreau started in 2005, naming the label after her grandmother. She focuses on making wines that express a single vineyard and variety, with zero dosage, from biodynamically farmed grapes. The Resonance bottling is made with 100 percent Pinot Noir from the Côte des Bar. It’s elegant and finessed, with chalky mineral notes, while at the same time delivering intense flavors of lemon oil, orange blossoms, apricots, and fresh cream.

buy this wine $83.00

Rosés

PARTNER PICK

bodegas muga rioja rosado 2025

variety Garnacha Tinta, Viura

tasting notes Stone fruit and peach skin, with floral and citrus nuances

Along the Ebro River in Spain, Rioja became the country’s first wine region to earn an esteemed DOCa status. It’s the highest classification Spain has for winemaking, and Rioja has adhered to these standards since 1991. Bodegas Muga has operated out of Haro for generations, and it’s in the valleys of the Rioja Alta area that it grows Garnacha Tinta and Viura grapes for its Rosado in two distinct soils: the calcareous clay in the Oja Valley that lends structure and acidity, and the Valle del Najerilla’s iron-rich clay that lends itself to a complex minerality. Hand-harvested and pressed, the Rosado ferments slowly and rests in contact with its fine lees for 16 weeks. This process both preserves its aromatics and adds body, creating a rounded finish that lingers. It’s pale and bright pink, as attractive in the glass as it is on the tongue, and opens with notes of stone fruit and peach skin. Fresh, balanced, and crisp, the Bodegas Muga Rosado is at home with ceviche, tuna, citrusy salads, or cheese boards. Perfect For: Sipping neat and elevating classic tequila cocktails

buy this rosé $17.00

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Matthieu Barret ‘Petit Ours’ Rosé 2025

variety Grenache

tasting notes Raspberries, minerals, orange zest

This rosé from the Southern Rhône is as inviting and friendly as the joyful pink teddy bear presented on its iridescent label. Made with 100 percent Grenache, it’s filled with juicy red fruit notes of ripe cherries and raspberries, making it ever so drinkable. A fun wine to share with friends as the night moves from dinner to a heated round of board games.

buy this rosé $23.00

Los Bermejos Rosado Canary Islands 2025

variety Listán Negro

tasting notes Smoke, blood orange, wild strawberries

Made with 100 percent Listán Negro from the stunning black volcanic soils of Lanzarote in Spain's Canary Islands, this rosé is filled with that savory, smoky streak that comes from the region’s distinct terroir. It’s an intriguing, totally crushable pick for those looking to pair something new with their charcuterie board.

buy this rosé $26.00

Minus Tide Trimble Ranch Vineyard Carignan Rosé 2025

variety Carignan

tasting notes Peaches, melon, strawberries

Sourced from a small block of old-vine Carignan from Mendocino’s organic, dry-farmed Trimble Ranch vineyard, this California rosé is full of sunshine. The warm site leads to a lively rosé with notes of ripe peaches, melon, and strawberries, with a saline minerality. The slightly fuller body from the concentrated fruit gives it a mouth-coating palate perfect for the wintertime.

buy this rosé $27.00

Domaine Le Galantin Bandol Rosé 2025

variety Mourvèdre blend

tasting notes Cherry, grapefruit pith, thyme

Bandol is the undisputed champ of rich, complex rosés in France, known for its robust fruit and savory characteristics that come from the hearty Mourvèdre grape. This expression comes from the small, family-owned Domaine Le Galantin, made with a blend of 62 percent Mourvèdre, 21 percent Cinsault, and 17 percent Grenache from southwest-facing hillsides on the Mediterranean coast. The result is an expressive wine filled with red cherry, peach, strawberry, thyme, and grapefruit pith notes. If you prefer to spend your holidays pretending you’re on the French Riviera with plates of raw seafood, this is your wine.

buy this rosé $22.00

Domaine Ilarria Irouleguy Rosé 2025

variety Tannat blend

tasting notes Cranberries, pomegranate seeds, dried herbs

This Tannat-based rosé from the south of France leans into the grape’s bold fruit and tannins. It’s a deep magenta color in the glass, offering a robust palate of overripe Concord grapes, pomegranate seeds, cranberries, and dried herbs. A hearty rosé to pair with roasted vegetable dishes.

buy this rosé $30.00

Editorial: Hannah Staab

design: srishti Bhawal

PARTNER PICK

spirits

PARTNER PICK

G4 Añejo Día de muertos

variety tequila Añejo

tasting notes Cooked agave, black pepper, citrus

Few bottles feel as festive as this one. G4 marks Día de Muertos with a single-batch Añejo, and the 2026 release arrives in a commemorative box made for the occasion, perfect for gift giving. G4 is the additive-free craft tequila of master distiller Felipe Camarena, made at the El Pandillo Distillery in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The “4” references the four generations of the family who have upheld the traditions of tequila-making, and this rich, artisanal Añejo carries that legacy. The blend brings together two barrel aged tequilas. Sixty percent of the mix ages for 12 months in George Dickel whiskey barrels, and the other 40% ages for 13 months in Jack Daniel’s barrels. The result is a deep, warm expression that doesn’t lose the bright, agave-forward character the brand is known for. Cooked agave is its core flavor, framed by accents of black pepper, earthy minerality, and a lift of citrus, while toasted oak spice adds a textured finish. Enjoy it neat over a large ice cube on its own or pair it with hearty fare like mole, ribeye, braised short ribs — or a simple square of dark chocolate for a luxurious after dinner treat. Perfect For: Toasting to loved ones, both near and far

buy this spirit $250.00

PARTNER PICK

Matchbook Distilling Daytrip Strawberry Amaro

variety amaro

tasting notes Strawberries, blood orange, rose petals

Long Island’s Matchbook Distilling is known for its experimental distilling style, drawing flavor inspiration from local produce. While more adventurous drinkers might be keen to try its sunchoke or squash flavored spirits, the playful pink Strawberry Amaro makes for a more approachable pour for a crowd. Serve on the rocks with a splash of soda and a few citrus slices for a colorful and easy welcome cocktail.

buy this spirit $30.00

Redwood Empire Emerald Giant Rye Whiskey

variety Rye whiskey

tasting notes Leather, cigar smoke, cedar

Rye whiskey is known for its signature spice, and that little kick of savory can add the perfect holiday flare to any cocktail. For a bottle that really captures rye’s spicy side, we like Redwood Empire’s Emerald Giant, a blend of the California producer’s own distillate with sourced barrels from Kentucky and MGP between the ages of four and six years old. It has a rich body with smoky cigar and leather notes, with a complex, lengthy finish.

buy this spirit $37.00

four pillars olive leaf gin

variety gin

tasting notes Olive leaf, rosemary, bay leaf

With the savory Martini trend still going strong, there might be no safer bet when batching holiday cocktails than the Dirty Martini. Lean into the flavor profile with the Olive Leaf gin from Australia’s Four Pillars. It’s made using three different types of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil and olive leaf tea from a local estate alongside botanicals like rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts, and lemon myrtle. The layers of flavor will add an extra pop that will impress your cocktail hour guests.

buy this spirit $40.00

Domaine Montreuil Calvados Reserve

variety calvados

tasting notes Apple pie, vanilla bean, beeswax

Nothing screams autumn festivities like the crisp flavor of apples, and for those who prefer a boozier tipple than your typical cider, look no further than calvados. This bottle from the historic Domaine de Montreuil is made using methods traditional to the region, including letting the apples fall to the ground before collecting them. This spirit is absolutely brimming with complex, layered flavors like freshly basked apple pie covered in crackly pastry, sugar, and spices; vanilla bean; and beeswax.

buy this spirit $45.00

Distillerie du Peyrat Rare Prestige Organic Cognac

variety cognac

tasting notes Dried apricots, plums, baking spices

Aged a minimum of seven years, this organic Cognac opens with aromas of fresh stone fruits on the nose before leading into a rich palate of dried apricots and spice. The palate offers a wonderful mouth-coating roundness that keeps the flavors lingering long after the liquid is gone. A great one to offer as an after-dinner pour for conversation by the fire.

buy this spirit $68.00

palomo destilado con mole

variety mezcal

tasting notes Dark chocolate, anise, peanuts

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to break out the mole pechuga mezcal you’ve been holding onto, the holidays feel like the perfect occasion. But just in case you aren’t familiar with this growing practice, these mezcals are made by adding mole paste to the second distillation, similar to the traditional pechuga process. This one is macerated for four weeks with all 30 ingredients of mezcalero Carlos Mendez Blas’s grandmother’s mole recipe. And the mole flavors definitely come through in the glass. Anise, chiles, herbs, peanuts, and hints of dark chocolate complement the signature agave flavor.

buy this spirit $53.00

compass box Nectarosity Blended Scotch Whisky

variety scotch

tasting notes Caramel, apricot preserves, vanilla

One of the best parts of the holiday season is the abundance of delicious cookies and pies. So why not double down on the theme with a Scotch inspired by baked goods? This blend was crafted using virgin American oak, first-fill ex-bourbon, and Palo Cortado sherry casks to capture the sweet, warming feeling of a freshly baked pastry. This comes across with vibrant notes of apricot preserves, bananas, vanilla, and caramel, brightened up by some citrus zest.

buy this spirit $60.00

kanosuke Hioki Pot Still Japanese Whisky

variety japanese whisky

tasting notes Peaches, ginger, herbs

There’s always a point in the holiday season where it’s time to break out the special bottle, and we’d like to nominate this stellar Japanese whisky for the occasion. It’s made using a complex method that involves three Miyake copper pot stills of differing neck shapes, along with vacuum distillation, which yields a deeply nuanced liquid. The palate brings bold yet silky flavors of peaches, plums, and cooking herbs, with the savory notes lasting through the long finish.

buy this spirit $105.00