With just 12 days until Christmas, it’s the perfect time to sip, share, and celebrate! I’ve rounded up 12 fantastic wines that are great for gifting, toasting, or simply enjoying during the holidays. These are tried-and-true favorites I reach for regularly—holidays or not! Delicious, versatile, and all under $70, no matter your budget.
Sea Sun Pinot Noir, 2021
$15 – Light bodied, smooth California-style Pinot Noir with notes of ripe cherry, spices, and a touch of vanilla.
Knappstein Clare Valley Riesling, 2021
$20 – Light bodied, acidic (read: not sweet!) Riesling with citrus, green apple, floral notes and a mineral finish. Pairs really well with food.
Tenuta Di Renieri Chianti Classico, 2021
$20 – Medium bodied classic Tuscan Chianti featuring ripe cherry, earthy spice, and typical tannins.
Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020
$25 – A beautifully balanced Cali Cabernet with lush dark fruit, hints of mocha, and a smooth, structured finish.
Pascal Thomas Quincy Sauvignon Blanc, 2022
$25 – A crisp and elegant French white with bright citrus, green apple, and refreshing minerality.
Jeff Runquist Petite Sirah R, 2022
$30 – A big, bold and velvety Petite Sirah, brimming with dark berry flavors, rich chocolate notes, and a touch of spice.
Beaulieu Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020
$35 – Full-bodied classic Napa Cab with layers of blackberry, cassis, and dark chocolate, complemented by hints of oak.
Enroute Les Pommiers Pinot Noir, 2022
$40 – Light bodied, beautifully expressive Pinot Noir with lush red berry flavors, hints of rose petal and spice. One of my favorites!
G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe, 2020
$45 – Medium to full-body elegant Barolo with high acid and tannins, with layers of red cherry and earthy spice.
Ramey Chardonnay Russian River, 2022
$50 – Full-bodied, rich Chardonnay, showcasing notes of ripe apple, pear, and citrus, balanced by subtle oak and a creamy texture.
Faust Cabernet Napa, 2022
$65 – Full-bodied, bold and opulent Napa Cabernet, with layers of blackberry, plum, and cocoa, hints of tobacco and a velvety, long-lasting finish. A great bottle!
Turley Zinfandel Pesenti, 2018
$65 – Full bodied, vibrant and powerful Zinfandel, bursting with ripe fruit, earth and spice and silky, dynamic finish.
Cheers!
xx—BB
Ah, thank you! Been waiting for this list!
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