| BELLS WILL BE RINGING |
Christmas Eve There’s something truly magical about Christmas Eve—it’s equal parts stillness and anticipation. Whether the night before Christmas is a larger, more raucous gathering or an intimate stay-at-home-and-watch- all-your-favourite-holiday-movies sort of night, a memorable bottle, something just a little more significant, is perfectly fitting. Elegant and timeless, Tuscany’s Castello di Ama San Lorenzo Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is exactly that wine. Made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, it delivers notes of dried cherry, balsamico, salted licorice and spice, leading to a smooth and fleshy palate with notable density and freshness. It’s a warm hug on an enchanting night.
Holiday Brunch While brunch is a year-round phenomenon, during the holidays it takes on an even more special role. It’s a time to catch up with family or friends early in the day, while likely indulging in decadent whipped cream and syrup-coated waffles and the always-satisfying mainstay, Eggs Benedict. Because the day is young, a playful and lower-alcohol wine is exactly the way to go. Made from Italy’s Venetian Glera grape, the fizzy and fruity Anna Spinato Organic Prosecco Brut not only has a joyous lime green wrapped label, but a friendly and unpretentious character. Expect tree fruits and acacia, honey and racy citrus notes. It’s crisp and dry and hits all the right notes with brunch and lunch dishes.
Secret Santa While a pre-selected price point often guides secret Santa practices— often much lower than the cost of a bottle of vino—we like to suggest a slightly higher-value option to our gift-giving group and make it both fun and educational. How? By the gifter picking a bottle of wine or variety the giftee might never have tasted. It’s a great way to learn about different grapes and will generally be more appreciated than a dollar store trinket. Why not put that money into the local economy at the same time! British Columbia makes a broad range of single-varietal and blended wines, and one of our best in the red category is undoubtedly Cabernet Franc. From the Black Sage Bench near Oliver in the Okanagan Valley, Bartier Bros. Cabernet Franc is an exceptional version that’s scented with currants, silky chocolate, purple flowers and vanilla. Stylish and truly representative of the variety, it will make any recipient rejoice!
CASTELLO DI AMA SAN LORENZO CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE Italy $64.99 765123
ANNA SPINATO ORGANIC PROSECCO BRUT Italy $19.99 374769
BARTIER BROS. CABERNET FRANC BC VQA $29.99 993139
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