Holiday Wine Picks: Insights from Denver and Boulder Experts

As the holiday season approaches, the phenomenon of supermarket wines makes its dreaded appearance. It’s not just about avoiding dry turkey or awkward family conversations; the real horror often comes in the form of predictable bottles like Yellow Tail Chardonnay, which can bring back memories of college headaches and culinary regrets. The solution? Elevate your holiday gatherings by bringing your own quality wines instead.

We sought advice from some of the top wine experts in Boulder and Denver to find out what they will be pouring this holiday season, offering a range of options from sparkling wines to robust reds that will impress your family and friends.

James Keiser, beverage manager at Corsica Wine Bar, plans to introduce something new to his mother’s palate, even if she loves her big buttery California chardonnays. He’ll be bringing a 2016 Chardonnay from Burgundy, as he believes it’s about sharing new experiences over a glass of wine. Keiser also loves a solid Nebbiolo, like Buganza’s Uva e Mani, which can delight a variety of wine drinkers without breaking the bank.

For larger gatherings, he recommends stopping by Mr. B’s Wine & Spirits for unique finds, or Molly’s Spirits where buying in bulk can earn discounts.

Michael Harney, beverage director at Barcelona Wine Bar, shares that he is the designated wine selector for his family during the holidays. His go-to bottle is Vega Clara Mario, a Tempranillo and Cabernet blend that conveys warmth and complexity, perfect for festive gatherings. For a more budget-friendly option, he suggests López de Heredia’s Viña Cubillo Crianza from Rioja, which pairs wonderfully with charcuterie.

Mary Kent, owner of Sienna Wine Bar, prefers a champagne-focused holiday. She swears by Laurent-Perrier’s Cuvée Rosé Brut for its delightful taste and history of female winemaking. If she needs another option, she goes for La Capranera Falanghina, which is refreshing and excellent with holiday food.

Carlin Karr, wine and beverage director at Frasca Hospitality Group, emphasizes versatile wines that can complement both turkey and rich side dishes. She often chooses a great Pinot Noir from Burgundy or Cru Beaujolais that can match the meal’s various flavors. Karr also highlights her love for Chianti Classico—a great value wine that impresses at gatherings—and sparkling wines from the Côte des Blancs region.

As you prepare for the holiday season, remember that a well-chosen bottle of wine can transform dinner into a memorable occasion. For those seeking adventure beyond the typical supermarket selection, knowledge of where to shop and what to choose can lead to unforgettable holiday experiences. No one should be stuck with mediocre wine this year!

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!