By: The Food Hunter
As the holidays approach, there's no better time to gather around the table with loved ones, indulge in delicious food, and savor a glass (or two!) of exceptional wine. Whether you're hosting a grand celebration or a cozy family dinner, wine has a special way of elevating the dining experience. To make your holiday menu planning a breeze, I've curated a list of my favorite wines from around the world, including exceptional bottles from Italy and beyond, along with perfect food pairings to inspire your festivities.
1. Statella, Etna Rosso Pettinociarelle 2020
This Sicilian red from Mount Etna is made from Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grapes. It offers a delightful combination of red berries, herbs, and a distinctive smoky minerality. Light-bodied with firm tannins and bright acidity, it’s perfect with roasted meats, lamb, or pasta dishes such as a hearty meat ragù.
2. Barone di Villagrande, Etna Bianco DOC Milo 2019
Made from the Carricante grape, this crisp white wine from Mount Etna has fresh citrus and green apple notes, complemented by a touch of herbal and volcanic minerality. It pairs beautifully with seafood such as grilled fish and oysters, as well as fresh salads and vegetable dishes.
3. Pietre di Luna, Catarratto 2022
This refreshing white from Sicily is crafted from the Catarratto grape, showcasing zesty citrus, floral aromas, and a hint of almond. Its crisp acidity makes it a perfect match for light fish dishes, seafood pasta, or fresh cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella.
4. Volpolo Bolgheri DOC 2022
A lighter style red from Tuscany’s Bolgheri region, Volpolo is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. With flavors of ripe cherry and plum, soft tannins, and a touch of spice, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta with tomato sauce, or roasted vegetables.
5. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023
This iconic Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand, is packed with tropical fruit, citrus, and grassy notes. It’s crisp and refreshing, making it an ideal match for seafood such as oysters or salmon, as well as goat cheese and light salads.
6. Etude 2022 Carneros Pinot Gris
From the Carneros region in California, this Pinot Gris offers fresh flavors of pear, green apple, and floral hints, with a clean, crisp finish. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, or seafood salads.
7. Torrevento, Castel del Monte Rosso
From the Puglia region, this red wine is made from the Nero di Troia grape. It’s rich with dark berry flavors, tobacco, and spice. Its earthy finish make it ideal for pairing with roast meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses.
8. Torrevento, Castello del Monte Ottagono
Another gem from Puglia, this wine blends Primitivo with a touch of other local varietals. Full-bodied and opulent, it’s packed with ripe blackberries, plums, and a hint of pepper and chocolate. This wine is a natural partner for grilled steaks, and rich pasta dishes like bolognese.
9. Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
From the heart of Tuscany, this Sangiovese-based Chianti Classico offers vibrant flavors of cherry, raspberry, and a touch of earthiness, with high acidity and medium tannins. It’s versatile enough to pair with roasted turkey, tomato-based pasta sauces, or mushroom risotto.
10. Poggio al Tesoro Bolgheri Superiore DOC "Sondraia" 2020
This Bordeaux-style blend from Tuscany combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The wine presents complex dark fruit aromas with herbs and a touch of oak. It’s full-bodied with structured tannins and pairs beautifully with wild game, or beef tenderloin.
11. Sonoma-Cutrer Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2021
From Sonoma, California, this Pinot Noir is bright and aromatic, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and earthiness. It's an excellent choice for roasted chicken, creamy pasta dishes, or soft cheeses like brie and camembert.
12. Hahn Wines 2022 Pinot Noir
This California Pinot Noir from Monterey County offers ripe cherry and strawberry flavors, with subtle vanilla and oak. Silky smooth and medium-bodied, it’s perfect for pairing with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or wild mushroom dishes.
13. Flora Springs - Holiday Wine
Flora Springs’ Holiday Bottles are created exclusively for wine club members as a special thank-you for their loyalty. Each bottle is meticulously etched and hand-painted, making them true works of art. As the only Napa Valley winery to offer unique holiday designs each year, Flora Springs pours immense care into every detail, ensuring the wine inside and the bottle itself are nothing short of perfection. These elegant bottles make ideal gifts and are perfect for festive holiday celebrations, offering a memorable experience both in taste and presentation.