Wine for the Holiday Gathering

Holiday time is upon us and with it comes the inevitable decision associated with which wines to serve.

There are multiple opportunities to serve wine during the holiday season, whether for meals or social gatherings with friends and family. Each opportunity presents its own special challenges. 

Wines are deeply personal. Each person has their own favorites and even among my wine drinking friends, although we generally enjoy similar wines, we have different likes.

For the holiday gathering I recommend a solid middle of the road white--a Viognier, a Pinot Gris, and maybe a Muscat with a bit of fizz in it. My specific recommendations are:

2011 King Family Viognier - $24
2013 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris - $14
2012 Semi Sparkling Muscat Frizzante Tualatin Estate - $15

On the red side, offer a dark red, shiraz or cabernet sauvignon and a lighter red like a cabernet franc or a pinot noir. 

2013 Willamette Valley Vineyards Whole Cluster Pinot Noir  - $22
2013 F Stephen Miller Shiraz Angel Reserve - $11
2013 King Family Vineyards Cabernet Franc - $24
2011 Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon - $13

Keep the prices moderate and figure four glasses per person--you should have enough for the evening that way. Remember, each bottle contains five five ounce glasses of wine. Most people pour heavy resulting in six or seven ounce pours.

Most importantly, though, have fun and enjoy the wine!

-- Bob and Christina Doan, Elkridge, MD