Holiday Wine Survival Guide: Ideal Party Wines

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

NV Segura Viudas Aria Brut ($12)

Segura Viudas is one of the top names in Cava, the classic Spanish sparkling wine, and its Aria cuvée is crisp, citrusy and refreshing—ideal as an aperitif, and for holiday toasts.

2005 Antinori Villa Antinori Bianco ($12)

This nectarine-inflected white blend from one of the most respected producers in Tuscany is light-bodied and low in alcohol, making it a great all-purpose wine.

2001 Taurino Salice Salentino Rosso Riserva ($12)

This plummy, smoky red produced in Italy’s Apulia region is light enough to pour at cocktail parties but has enough depth of flavor to serve at dinners as well.

2005 The Magnificent Wine Company House Wine ($10)

This curranty red made by Charles Smith, owner of Washington state’s K Vintners, is a steal for a good American Cabernet blend and lovely at holiday meals.

Wine Cocktails: Pitcher Solutions

Mixing cocktails one by one is exceedingly impractical at a big party. Instead, F&W’s Nick Fauchald suggests these pitcher drinks.

• Santa’s Little Helper
• Frost Nip

Published December 2007