Holiday Wine Survival Guide: Ideal Party Wines

Inexpensive, versatile, delicious wines for every gathering—from cocktail parties to dinners.

Wines for holiday parties.

Photo © Wendell Webber.

Holiday Party Wines for Every Guest

—Megan Krigbaum

NV Scharffenberger Brut Excellence ($20)

Made in the traditional Champagne style, this rich and creamy wine from northern California can be served throughout a meal.

2011 Domaine Daniel Dampt Chablis ($24)

Third-generation winemaker Vincent Dampt ages his wines entirely in stainless steel, resulting in this lively, fresh Chablis that can pair with practically any appetizer.

2011 Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge ($16)

A medium-bodied Syrah blend from the Rhône Valley that is spicy and fruit-forward—great on its own or with food.

2009 Stags’ Leap Napa Valley Merlot ($33)

This is for guests who like full-bodied reds. Made with estate fruit, it’s aged in oak barrels for 16 months, giving the cherry- rich wine a compelling roundness.

Updated December 2012