The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and unforgettable gatherings—and nothing brings people together quite like great wine.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner, raising a glass to toast the New Year, or simply savouring moments with loved ones, the right wine can elevate every occasion. This year, I’ve handpicked a selection of exceptional wines, each with its own story and charm, to make your celebrations truly magical. Best of all, they’re all conveniently available at the LCBO, ensuring you can focus on making memories instead of searching the aisles.
13th Street Cuvée Brut Sparkling Rosé
Rosé sparkling wines are the unsung heroes of the holiday season, and the 13th Street Cuvée Brut Sparkling Rosé is a standout. Crafted by 13th Street Winery—a boutique gem in Ontario known for its dedication to both winemaking and the arts—this Traditional Method sparkler combines 54% Chardonnay and 46% Pinot Noir. Bursting with vibrant notes of fresh strawberry, tangy rhubarb, crisp apple, and a touch of almond, it delivers a refreshing, juicy palate that seamlessly complements dishes from savoury appetizers to indulgent mains.
Perfect Pairing: Raise a glass to toast the New Year with this elegant and versatile sparkler, which is ideal for starting your celebrations with style and flair.
LAVIS Pinot Grigio
Situated in Italy’s alpine Trentino region, LAVIS represents over 800 growers who are deeply committed to producing high-quality wines. Their Pinot Grigio is a shining example of this dedication. Hand-harvested from sandy loam soils enriched with alluvial sediment, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel and aged on their lees for up to six months. This process creates a wine with inviting aromas of ripe orchard fruit, delicate honey, and white flowers. On the palate, it reveals a medium-bodied structure, delightful minerality, and a crisp, refreshing finish that lingers.
Perfect Pairing: This lively Pinot Grigio shines during party-time dancing moments, offering a refreshing sip to keep the energy and festive spirit alive.
Anselmi San Vincenzo
This wine exemplifies the very best of Soave, Italy, with a rich history and a bold spirit. Maverick winemaker Roberto Anselmi revolutionized the region with his innovative viticulture practices, and the San Vincenzo reflects his passion. A blend of 70% Garganega with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, this wine delivers a creamy, light-bodied profile with a symphony of flavours, including blood orange granita, fresh tarragon, yellow peach, and mineral undertones. It’s a wine that balances elegance with complexity, making it a perfect addition to any festive table.
Perfect Pairing: Pair this expressive white with a sit-down holiday meal. From roasted poultry to creamy risottos, it’s sure to elevate every bite and create lasting memories.
Stoneleigh 2020 Latitude Pinot Noir
Produced in Marlborough’s iconic Wairau Valley, the Stoneleigh Latitude 2020 Pinot Noir is a testament to the region’s unique terroir. Grapes from the Golden Mile—a stretch known for its exceptional quality—benefit from ancient river stones that radiate warmth, enhancing ripening. This full-bodied, ruby-hued wine boasts concentrated plummy and spicy flavours, complemented by oak complexity and a savoury finish. Its vibrant character and well-integrated structure make it a wine worth savouring.
Perfect Pairing: This wine is the ideal red complement to family dinner moments, pairing beautifully with turkey, ham, or hearty vegetarian mains.
Malivoire Gamay ‘Le Cœur’
Hailing from Ontario’s celebrated Beamsville Bench, Malivoire’s Gamay ‘Le Cœur’ is a testament to the artistry and sustainability of Canadian winemaking. With a nose that bursts with raspberry jam, cinnamon hearts, and a hint of red licorice, it entices even before the first sip. On the palate, expect an energetic medley of sour cherry, juicy pomegranate, and a peppery twist, underscored by vibrant acidity. This nimble and refreshing wine embodies the playful, approachable character that makes Gamay a favourite among wine lovers.
Perfect Pairing: Bring out this Gamay for an evening of board games and holiday fun. Its playful nature matches the joy of friendly competition and laughter.
De Alberto Dorado Rueda
Crafted in Rueda by Bodegas de Alberto, this fortified wine showcases Verdejo’s potential for oxidative ageing. The De Alberto Dorado is aged in demijohns exposed to sunlight and in a 70-year-old solera system, creating a golden amber wine with extraordinary depth. Aromas of toasted nuts, caramel, dried oranges, and apricot jam lead to a palate of café crème, roasted hazelnuts, and bitter orange zest. Its long, bone-dry finish makes it a unique and indulgent choice.
Perfect Pairing: Relax after dinner with this complex, sherry-like wine. Take a moment to reflect on the year gone by and savour its rich, contemplative flavours.
Whether you’re toasting the New Year, enjoying a holiday feast, or dancing the night away, these wines promise to make every celebration extraordinary. Cheers to a season filled with unforgettable pairings and cherished moments!