Let's face it, when it comes to wine everyone has an opinion. Some people are fairly easy to please, but others are extremely picky about the pedigree of the fermented grapes they sip. As the holiday season kicks off, keep these four fantastic red wines on hand. These beauties from New Zealand, France, Argentina, and Italy are certain to delight even your most persnickety guest!
Craggy Range Te Muna Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014 ($44.99)
Martinborough, New Zealand
When it comes to Pinot Noir, wine geeks know that Craggy Range is not just one of New Zealand's finest but simply one of the best anywhere. Craggy Range is a family-owned winery that exclusively crafts single-vineyard, terroir-driven wines that convey a timeless Old World elegance. Lovers of classic red Burgundy will appreciate Te Muna's graceful expression of a sense of place - in this instance, the old stony soils of the terraced Te Muna vineyards in the cool-climate region of Martinborough. Supple with a poetic integration of red fruit, fine tannins, and vibrant acidity, Te Muna is precise and pretty.
Ferraton Père & Fils “La Matinière” Crozes-Hermitage 2015 ($23)
Rhône Valley, France
This sultry & earthy 100% Syrah from the Northern Rhône Valley enchants with tremendous freshness and depth along with plenty of ooh la la! A rich but not overwhelming expression of Syrah that exquisitely balances red berry flavors with a lively pop of pepper and a touch of herbs. Silky with tender tannins, La Matinière is a charmer!
Colomé Estate Malbec 2014 ($25)
Salta, Argentina
You won't care about the chill in the air once you sip Colomé Estate Malbec 2014 - this excellent Malbec will warm you up like a luxurious cashmere blanket! Colomé, located in Salta, Argentina, has the highest vineyards in the world and their estate Malbec has a captivating intensity, purity, and energy. A wonderful expression of Malbec that beautifully shows how elegant and pristine Argentina's signature red can be.
Masseria Altemura "Sasseo" Primitivo 2014 ($15.99)
Salento (Puglia), Italy
This sexy little sip from the south of Italy will heat up even the chilliest night. Wines made from the Primitivo grape are known for being big & bold but Sasseo balances that strength with an appealing softness. Juicy and rich with savory hints of spice, Sasseo is balanced, approachable, and absolutely enjoyable.
