Christmas is all about tradition. Most of us stick rigorously to our family rituals around what we do and how we do them, right down to what we eat.
I’ve mildly threatened my brother that I won’t show up on the 25th if he doesn’t make his always excellent ham. And, of course, I’m also counting on candied yams, scalloped potatoes and Brussels sprouts. (I sure hope my family is reading this.)
The all-important wine selection falls on my shoulders and I take the responsibility very seriously. This is where I like to change things up, at least a bit. While I typically lean toward vibrant, characterful whites and light to medium fruity reds, I take great pleasure in introducing everyone to my favourite new finds within those realms. It’s way more exciting than watching them open their gifts.
I’ve combed the shelves for the latest releases to pair with that familiar and beloved feast. I have sweet ‘n’ salty ham in mind. But don’t worry, my picks will work equally well with turkey dinner.
Here’s to keeping traditions fresh!
2015 L’Ora, Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige DOC, Italy, $16.99, BC Liquor Stores
Sure to be a crowd pleaser, L’Ora stands out in a sea of Pinot Grigio, both in terms of packaging and price. Promising green almond and banana on the nose, it is unctuously textured, slightly honeyed, with lovely peach flavours, yet clean and minerally on the finish.
2015 Donnafugata, ‘Anthìlia’ Sicilia Bianco DOC, Italy, $27-30, private wine stores (Liberty, Legacy & Everything Wine)
Though not new to BC, if it is to you, the Anthìlia is worth seeking out. A blend of the local Sicilian grapes Ansonica and Catarratto Bianco, it offers jasmine and herb flowers, orange and lime peel, as well as juicy flavours of pear. A vivacious match for the array of side dishes that will be served up Christmas Day.
2014 Dr. Bürklin-Wolf, Wachenheimer, Riesling Trocken, $31.49, BC Liquor Stores
A concentrated mouthful of white peach, white grapefruit and stones. I just love this dry, tightly wound expression of Riesling. Pure and racy, it will relax a little bit with food and refresh between bites. Regularly $33.99, the $2.50 off is a Christmas gift for the month of December. Accept it graciously.
2014 Domaine Pascal Aufranc, ‘Vignes de 1939’ Chénas AOC France, $26.99, BC Liquor Stores
Though my wine selection changes from year to year, I inevitably include something from Beaujolais. I’m very excited about sipping this cru Chénas with baked ham on the 25th. Succulent raspberry, cherry and red currant with violets and a snap of fresh-cracked pepper, it’s approachable, charming, crunchy and very easy to drink.
2014 Greywacke, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand, $44.99, BC Liquor Stores
Penetrating and gorgeously scented with plum blossoms, lavender and wild cherry wafting from the glass. On the palate, sumptuous strawberry and hints of clove are carried by silky-smooth tannin, leading to a long, luxurious finish. This is beautiful Pinot Noir, generous yet elegant and impossible not to like. Bravo!
Prices exclusive of taxes.
