Christmas is just a week away! Today I am sharing three affordable wines that you can serve at your holiday party or give as a hostess gift. I have teamed up with Leslie Lamont, a Sommelier at Formento's, who is sharing her favorite liquid party starters!
BUBBLES! 'Tis the season for this beautiful, sparkly adult beverage. Nothing kicks off a holiday shindig quite like a glass of bubbly. I know what you're thinking: "Champagne is freakin' expensive and I'm not made of $$" but don't fret! If you've got Champagne taste with a High Life budget there are plenty of great sparkling wine options. One of my favorites is André et Mireille Tissot Crémant du Jura from France. Tissot produces a tasty sparkling wine using the same grape varietals and production method as Champagne. Beautiful aromatics of white flowers, toasted almonds with a lively but rich palate. NV André et Mireille Tisot Cremant du Jura Extra Brut. Available @ Binny's $23.99
If you're searching for a versatile red with a beautiful savory tone that will compliment everything from light apps to a full on holiday feast look no further! Domaine Guillot-Broux produces fantastic red and white wine from the Mâconnais in the south of Burgundy. Because Mâconnais doesn't have quite the popularity of other areas within Burgundy you can get incredible wine at a great value. This pinot noir is perfectly complex while remaining totally fresh and slamable, however, let's keep it classy and stick to sipping. (No judgement here if you decide to sip quickly though. This wine is super tasty). 2013 Guillot-Broux Mâcon-Cruzille Rouge-Burgundy, France. Available @ Perman Wine Selections $18.99
Want a white wine that will satisfy Aunt Dorothy's love for bold Chardonnay and your hipster cousin Emma's taste for easy drinking Sancerre? This fantastic Chenin Blanc from Guiberteau has you covered. Romain Guiberteau is a third generation winemaker at the estate and is creating wine with a beautiful balance of power and finesse. Notes of ripe, luscious orchard fruit with focused, briny minerality make this wine the perfect companion for any holiday gathering.
2013 Domaine Guiberteau Samur Blanc Loire, France. Available @ Vin Chicago $17.99.
Happy Holidays everyone! I am jetting off to Munich tomorrow - but don't worry I have some great recipes lined up to keep you busy while I am traveling.
