Cheers to Ho-Ho-Holiday Wine

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of year on the social calendar and you can bet we have plenty of South American vino on hand. Whether we’re throwing a party or getting ready to party, we make sure a variety of our choice bottles represent the region. We also stock up for last minute gifts: an inexpensive or mid-priced bottle works fantastically for a colleague or a cousin, a higher end wine is a romantic splurge for an intimate cena para dos with that special someone.

As we traveled through South America working on our book, Wines of the Southern Hemisphere, we discovered wonderful wine in a variety of price points and styles. Start by picking up some Chilean or Argentinean wines (well represented in shops across the U.S.) and keep an eye out for wines from Brazil, especially festive sparklers, which will be available in North America early in the new year. Curious about what we're drinking? Here’s what you’ll find on our table and in our glasses this Christmas.

Sparkling Wine

Miguel Torres Santa Digna Estelado Rosé, Maule Valley, Chile 
Mix a little history into your holiday party. This light pink sparkler is made from the Pais grape, the variety that the Spanish first brought to South America in the 15th century. Formerly used only for domestic jug wine, Pais now finds itself made into this elegant party-starter. The fresh, fruity flavors and persistent bubbles say bienvenido to friends and family alike.

Hom Extra Brut, Mendoza, Argentina 
Made from Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, this sparkling wine from Argentina is a fun way to start your fiesta. Everybody loves bubbles, so hand your guests a glass the moment they arrive, and they will all rave about the delicate flavors of lemon, peach, and apple with a touch of toast.

Next, which white wine we're serving… [pagebreak]

White Wine

Red Wine 

Clos de los Siete 2009, Mendoza, Argentina 

From renowned international wine consultant Michel Rolland, this value-priced red blend (Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petit Verdot) is bold, fruity, and delicious. Drink on its own to start your evening or serve with empanadas or blue cheese. 

Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2010, Mendoza, Argentina

Whether you are braising lamb shanks all day or throwing steaks on the parrilla, your friends and family will appreciate this well-crafted Malbec. The fresh flavors of cherry jam and berries are tempered by a touch of herbs on the finish. 

Bodega Chacra Barda 2010, Patagonia, Argentina 

From the far south of Argentina—and Sassicaia scion Piero Incisa della Rocchetta—comes this elegant Pinot Noir that is at home with spicy glazed salmon or arroz con pollo. 

Emiliana Coyam Los Robles Estate 2009 Colchagua Valley, Chile

Blended mainly from Syrah, Carmenere, and Merlot, this biodynamic wine tastes of ripe plums, berries, baking spices, and vanilla, with an undertone of earthiness. It cries out for rich meat dishes and will not be overpowered by chimichurri or pernil. 

Cheval des Andes 2007, Mendoza, Argentina

We are well into splurge territory here, but if el amor de tu vida has a wine cellar, here’s one from Argentina that you shouldn’t miss. Cheval des Andes is a joint venture between Terrazas de los Andes and Bordeaux’ Cheval Blanc, and this Bordeaux-style blend, comprised mainly of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, will keep for at least another 15 years. Don’t want to wait that long? Don’t worry, you will not be disappointed by its rich sabor of cassis, chocolate, and spice enhanced by rich tannins and a juicy finish.