Merry Christmas! An occasion as merry and bright as this one calls for wines that are their own presents on the table. There are lots of them. I will offer mine, of course, and I’m sure your local wine store has recommendations that they are delighted to share with you. If you like talking wine, getting to know the folks at your wine shop will lead to some excellent suggestions.
Christmas Eve is often a meal of fish or pasta – or both. Far Niente’s Napa Valley Chardonnay is as lovely a Chard as I’ve tasted and worth every penny of its price tag. It opens with big notes of citrus, melon, and pear on the nose, which continue onto the palate with an enchanting silky mouthfeel and lingering finish. Enjoy this with seafood and cream-based pasta. For pasta with a red sauce – or with beef or lamb or even a pork roast – a beautiful Italian red is a big Barolo. Made from the Nebbiolo grape that seems to only thrive in Piedmont, Italy, a Barolo is a medium-bodied, multi-layered dry red wine that is enjoyed like a great conversation that gets better and better as it goes along. The Paulo Scavino winery is all about its Barolos and any bottle from there is an excellent choice.
Wishing you and yours a wine-derful holiday!
