Signorello Estate “Seta” 2010 (Napa, California), $36: “Seta” is a blend of 40 percent sauvignon blanc and 60 percent semillon barrel-fermented varietals. A creamy texture and flavors of vanilla and nectarine with a luscious, juicy mouthfeel make this wine a great pair with country ham.
Lancaster Estate “Sophia’s Hillside Cuvee” 2009 (Alexander Valley, California), $42: A beautiful wine with holiday flavors of clove, cinnamon, plum, and cherry, this blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot is aged in French oak and unfiltered upon bottling. Enjoy this treasured wine with standing rib roast this year.
Matteo Correggia Barbera d’Alba 2009 (Piedmont, Italy), $18: A juicy Barbera d’Alba such as this one is the perfect partner for a crown roast of pork. This red from northern Italy is juicy and smooth, with silky tannins and dark fruits. Both oak and stainless steel aging create a velvet taste to sip on.
St. Innocent “Momtazi Vineyard” Pinot Noir 2009 (Willamette Valley, Oregon), $32: Venison on the menu? Then this Oregon pinot noir should be alongside it. The winery uses biodynamically farmed grapes from renowned Momtazi Vineyard, which give this unfiltered wine an untamed quality. Flavors of coffee, spice, and black fruits produce a balanced wine.
Pommery “Cuvee Louise” Brut Champagne 1999 (Champagne, France), $125: Turkey and Champagne are sure to be a hit this holiday season. The “Cuvee Louise” named after Madame Louise Pommery is silky with a bright mineral quality. Flavors of red berries, quince, and sweet beeswax are always a delight to enjoy.
