December has arrived, and with the holiday calendar condensed this year, there are only three opportunities for the Wine Guy column this month. That means it's time to get straight to the point and tackle that gift list. For those aiming to please the oenophile in their life, here are a few savvy selections that promise to delight. And for those who find themselves in a last-minute crunch, remember that a gift card to a local bottle shop is always a reliable fallback.
Sparkling Sensation from the Okanagan
When uncertainty strikes about a recipient's red or white preference, the answer is almost always bubbles. Sparkling wine is the quintessential versatile gift, guaranteed to find an occasion for celebration. For an extra thoughtful touch, include a note suggesting: "For best results, store in the fridge for the right impromptu moment." A prime candidate for such a moment is the Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery 2017 The One Grand Reserve Sparkling from British Columbia. Priced at $49.99 and available directly from the winery, this offering delivers a textural and engaging experience. The review sums it up as achieving Champagne taste on a B.C. budget, earning it an A- rating.
Classic Elegance from Chablis
For the classic white wine aficionado, it's hard to surpass the refined appeal of Chablis. While Grand Cru options exist for larger budgets, the Petit Chablis tier offers sensible elegance. The William Fevre 2023 Petit Chablis from France, available for $39.99 (product #811232), is a standout. It entices with aromas of citrus and brioche, leading to a smooth, rich, and bright mid-palate. A balanced and textural finish, lifted by a refreshing lick of acidity, rounds out the experience. It's excellent on its own or paired with a complementary gift, like a card to a local cheese monger featuring Comté or aged cheddar. This wine earns a B+ for its handsome elegance.
A Robust and Comforting Red
When the gift call is for a red wine, the Jim Barry & Sons 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia presents a fantastic, crowd-pleasing option that is easy on the wallet. On sale until December 27 for $24.99 (product #324520), this wine pours a deep, dense purple-black. It offers enticing dark fruit aromas with hints of vanilla, followed by a sweet, ripe fruit entry. The palate is robust yet structured, finishing with a smooth and comforting finesse. It's the ideal companion for a cozy evening by the fireplace with a good book, meriting a B+ as a comforting Cab Sauv.
Exploring Alcohol-Free Alternatives
The non-alcoholic and zero-proof beverage category continues to expand with serious, tasty options. For those curious or preparing for initiatives like Dry January, the Free Spirit Vancouver event offers a chance to explore. Taking place on December 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Heritage Hall (3102 Main St, Vancouver), the event will feature more than 50 producers offering unlimited tastings. Tickets are $48 plus fees, and complete details can be found at freespiritvancouver.com.
