Twelve holiday wines handpicked by the Recommendations Team at Wine.com, each with the expert's favorite food pairing.
Whether you're hosting festive gatherings, toasting with loved ones or searching for the perfect gift, these bottles were chosen for their pairing potential and standout quality - from Lambrusco and Rioja to Napa Cabernet and Champagne.
Lini is a family-run winery known for its high-quality Lambrusco, made from ancient Lambrusco grapes. This dry Rosso is a versatile food wine, especially pairing well with charcuterie.
For over 85 years, the Muga family has crafted exceptional Rioja wines. The Seleccion Especial is only produced in the best vintages, with muted fruit notes and a backbone of cedar.
Kasaundra's Pick: Abbazia di Novacella Kerner
Kasaundra, Recommendations Lead & Picked Sommelier
Pair it with: Roasted chicken with bacon and apple sauce
Impossible not to fall for its charm - Kerner enchants with its hypnotic fragrance! Around this time of year, I love pairing this bottle with roasted chicken draped in sweet, smoky bacon-and-apple sauce, brightened by mustard and herbs.
This bubbly is perfect for the winter holidays! With Pinot Noir intensity, a touch of bitterness and bright cherry notes, it's bold enough for grilled salmon or roast chicken. Rosy, cheery and full of character - an occasion in itself!
Shasha's Pick: Lucien Albrecht Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rosé
This holiday sparkler makes a perfect gift for bubbly lovers! With aromas of rhubarb, strawberry and gala apple, it's a crisp, dry Alsatian wine that's ideal as an aperitif.
Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California ● Non-Vintage
95 Jeb Dunnuck
95 James Suckling
94 Decanter
94 Wine Enthusiast
93 Tasting Panel
93 Wine Spectator
92 Robert Parker
91 Wine & Spirits
90 Vinous
$38.99
$38.99
Why we picked it
Nothing says celebration quite like sparkling wine! Roederer Estate's Brut is the ideal intersection of quality and price, delivering floral aromatics, exquisite texture and a mineral-driven finish. Beautiful by itself as an aperitif, it's also a fantastic match for cheese and charcuterie platters.
Rutherford, Napa Valley, California ● Cabernet Sauvignon
100 Wine Enthusiast
99 James Suckling
98 Jeb Dunnuck
96 Robert Parker
94 Wine Spectator
$261.99
$261.99
Why we picked it
This special Cab is like velvet but has the structure to age over 10+ years. It is complex, with dark fruit, cocoa and herb notes. I am excited to share this with my new in-laws.
Aimee's Pick: Hermann J. Wiemer Dry Riesling
Aimee, Recommendations Specialist
Pair it with: Deviled eggs, cured meats and spicy shrimp cocktail
Sometimes all you need is one Riesling to celebrate! This perfect balance of bright citrus acidity with a slight sweetness of honeyed stone fruit and light floral and spice notes makes an outstanding match for savory snacks.
The Pommery Brut Royal is a beautiful golden color with tiny bubbles that fill your mouth with flavor and feel. Cheerful citrus and floral are key flavors, with accents of delicate brioche. It is elegant, round and delicious.
If I were trying to impress at a holiday dinner, this is what I would bring. Spottswoode is a Napa classic and certainly an "in the know" gem. If a prime rib dinner is anywhere on your holiday schedule, put this in your shopping cart now and thank me later.
This delicious non-vintage Champagne always overdelivers for the price. It's a lovely option both for gifting and for enjoying with sushi on New Year's Eve.
If you're looking for an elegant bottle of classic Champagne to serve, reach for Laurent-Perrier Rosé. This award-winning sparkler is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as an aperitif or throughout your meal.
