Houston – If you’re planning a holiday gathering, choosing the right wine can set the tone for the whole night. Houston Life friend and advanced sommelier Wanda Cole-Nicholson stopped by and brought 5 standout bottles ranging from crisp and refreshing to rich and celebratory, giving you plenty of options no matter what you’re serving. The best part is many of them you can grab locally!
If your holiday plans call for bubbles, Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne is a classic choice. It’s lively, elegant, and priced well for a true Champagne. Grab the bottle for $39 or the limited-edition ‘Code Rouge" holiday set for $79
A reliable white is the Daou Chardonnay from Paso Robles. It’s smooth, lightly oaked, and easy to pair with everything from appetizers to roast chicken. For $17, you can’t go wrong. For something brighter, the Priest Ranch Sauvignon Blanc brings fresh citrus notes and is available directly from the winery’s website for around $30.
For red wine lovers, the Tinta Pesquera Crianza from Spain offers deep berry flavor with just the right amount of spice, making it a great match for heavier dishes.
And if you’re looking for a splurge, Daou’s Soul of a Lion Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout. It’s bold, structured and made for special occasions.