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Reliable Wines for the Holiday Times - Part 2

By FBWorld Team

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!

Click on labels to enlarge

Ventana 2012 Chadonnay
Winery: Ventana
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Monterey County
Year: 2012
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 20-25

Review:
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
Winery: Ventana
Grape(s): 60% Grenche & 40% Syrah
Region: Monterey County
Year:
2010
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 20-25

Review:
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
Winery: Hahn
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Monterey County

Year: 2012

Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 10-15

Review:
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
Winery: Hahn
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Gris
Region: Monterey County

Year:
2012
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 10-15

Review:
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
Winery: Hahn
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: California

Year:
2012
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 10-15

Review:
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
Winery: Hahn
Grape(s): 67% Grenache, 28% Syrah, & 5% Mouvedre
Region: Central Coast y

Year: 2012
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 10-15

Review:
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

By Jason Barlow

Ratings Key:
96 — 100
Spectacular
92 — 95
Outstanding
89 — 91
Great
85 — 88
Good
81 — 84
Solid

 

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