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We continue our series (Check out Part 1, too.) recommending reliable wines for the Holiday Season since the last thing anyone wants to worry about is what wine to serve guests. Thus, here are a few more brands and their bottles that aren’t too expensive, are rather easy to find, and are consistently pleasing. Hope you enjoy!
Ventana 2012 Chadonnay
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Monerey County
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of apples, pears, pineapple, and vanilla greets the senses. Flavors of apple and pear emerge on the palate along with notes of vanilla and sweet spice. A lush white, with a supple mouthfeel, fans of Chardonnay will enjoy this bottle.
Rating: 89
Ventana 2010 Rubystone
Grape(s): 60% Grenche & 40% Syrah
Region: Monerey County
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of blackberry, cherry, and plum meld with notes of clove and caramel on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of blackberries, cherries, and plums with accents of sweet spice and caramel. A dark, fruit-driven blend with plush tannins, it will pair nicely with a roast chicken and a holiday table.
Rating: 89
Hahn 2012 Chadonnay
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Monerey County
Price: 10-15
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of apples and pears meld with suggestions of creamy oak on the nose. Flavors of green apple, peach, and pear are accented by notes of lemon custard, buttery oak, and vanilla on the palate. A lush Chardonnay with a balanced acidity, it’s a good value you can serve a crowd with confidence.
Rating: 88
Hahn 2012 Pinot Gris
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Gris
Region: Monerey County
Price: 10-15
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of pear, peach, and dried apricots rises up from the glass. A sip delivers flavors of peach, apricot, and tangerine along with nutty suggestions. An approachable white with a friendly acidity, it’s an ideal aperitif for a casual gathering.
Rating: 87
Hahn 2012 Pinot Noir
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: California
Price: 10-15
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of black cherry, plums, and raspberries unfold into notes of white pepper, oak, and vanilla on the nose. The palate delivers flavors of cherry, plum, and blackberry along with hints of earth, vanilla, and all-spice. A light, easy-going Pinot, it’s an ideal red to serve before dinner.
Rating: 86
Hahn 2012 GSM
Grape(s): 67% Grenache, 28% Syrah, & 5% Mouvedre
Region: Central Coast
Price: 10-15
Tasting Notes:
Notes of bramble fruits and cherries rise up from a glass along with suggestions of spice and vanilla. Raspberry, blackberry, and cherry flavors emerge on the palate, accented by notes of pepper, creamy oak, and all-spice. A lighter red with a food-friendly acidity, it will pair nicely with lamb at your holiday dinners.
Rating: 87
