The holidays are fast approaching, which means two things: roasted roots and meats to eat and lots of celebratory gatherings. Of course, you’ll need a bottle for each.
For holiday meals, try R. López de Heredia Bosconia Rioja Reserva. This complex, satisfying wine is a blend of four grapes: Tempranillo and Garnacha with a bit of graciano and Mazuelo. The Bosconia can stand up rich winter dishes with flavors of wild berries and cranberries, a hint of harissa that reminds the drinker of a fire in the hearth. It’s brilliant on the palate with minerals and red fruits, has little tannin, and finishes with just a hint of saline. Pick up one bottle for dinner and another to gift; The Wine Merchant in Clayton has a particularly ripe 2003 in stock.
Of course for a holiday celebration, you can’t go wrong with Champagne. In the last few years, there has been a bubbly revolution in the U.S. regarding what we Champagne we can import, moving from big brands to artisanal grower Champagnes. Grower Champagnes, produced by the same people who grew the grapes, can be identified by a small “RM” (Récoltant-Manipulant) on the label as opposed to a “NM” (Negociant-Manipulant), which identifies a large production house that sources its grapes from across the Champagne region of France.
Pierre Peters Cuvee De Reserve Blanc De Blancs is a fantastic example of what a grower Champagne can be. Crisp, rich and brilliant, this wine pairs with any food and creates a festive atmosphere as soon as you pop cork. If you bring it to a party, be sure to pour your glass right after the host’s – you may not get any otherwise! You can find this bottle at The Wine and Cheese Place and Parker’s Table.
Ben Wood holds more than 10 years experience in the wine industry. He currently works as a sales representative for St. Louis-based wine importer Terra Firma.
This article appears in December 2014.