The season of gathering calls for wines that carry conversation as easily as they carry flavor—from the first pop of bubbles to the last toast of the night. This curated six-pack brings together soulful bottles from Burgundy to McLaren Vale, each crafted to elevate a moment around the table.
MV Frédéric Magnien, Blanc de Noirs Crémant de Bourgogne Extra Brut
Start the evening with refinement. This hand-riddled Crémant, made entirely from Pinot Noir, brims with fine bubbles, crisp orchard fruit, and a whisper of brioche. It’s the ideal aperitif for welcoming friends or refreshing the chef.
Recipe pairing: Gougères or smoked salmon blinis.
2024 Bernabeleva, Camino de Navaherreros Blanco, Vinos de Madrid
A shimmering field blend of Albillo Real and companion varieties grown on granitic soils northwest of Madrid. The wine glides between texture and freshness—lemon zest, fennel, and wet stone. Serve it with roast poultry, seafood paella, or Manchego croquettes to bring out its Mediterranean grace.
Recipe pairing: Lemon and herb roasted turkey with warm farro stuffing.
2022 Red Car, Chardonnay “Mohrhardt Ridge Vineyard,” Fort Ross–Seaview
From a windswept coastal vineyard perched above the Pacific, this Chardonnay balances richness with coastal salinity. The result is a golden harmony of Meyer lemon, orchard fruit, and hazelnut. Ideal for creamy sides or holiday mains.
Recipe pairing: Butternut squash gratin or lobster mac and cheese.
2022 Marine Layer, Pinot Noir “Lyra,” Sonoma Coast
An elegant coastal Pinot Noir shaped by fog and sea breeze. Juicy red cherry, forest floor, and spice notes make it a seamless companion to duck, salmon, or earthy mushroom dishes. It’s the holiday wine that pleases everyone at the table.
Recipe pairing: Roast duck breast with cherry-balsamic glaze.
2023 Thistledown, “Thorny Devil” Old-Vine Grenache, McLaren Vale
Grown from gnarled bush vines planted decades ago, this Grenache captures Australia’s sunlit generosity in a lifted, silken frame. Think raspberry compote, baking spice, and a touch of dried herb.
Recipe pairing: Dark chocolate torte with raspberry coulis.
2020 Garage Wine Co., Cabernet Sauvignon “Reelegido Vineyard” Lot 121, Maipo Valley
Power meets poise in this single-vineyard Cabernet from the Andes foothills. Small-batch fermentation and neutral oak aging yield deep cassis, cedar, and graphite tones. It anchors the feast with energy and depth—remarkable cutting through rich savory entrees or decadent deserts.
Recipe pairing: Herb-crusted prime rib with horseradish cream.
