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Holiday Wines for People, Not Just Pairings: A 2025 Guide to Eight Stand-Out Selections

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/23 .. -a-2025-guide-to-eight-stand-out-selections.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, December 23rd 2025 at 9:13 GMT by Forbes

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Holiday Wines for the Person, Not Just the Plate: A 2025 Guide to Eight Stand‑Out Selections

When the holiday season arrives, the conversation often shifts to what will go on the menu. By the time the final dish is plated, most people are already wondering how to keep the wine conversation lively and, most importantly, how to choose bottles that will stand out even if there isn’t a perfectly matched course in sight. In “Eight Holiday Wines for People, Not Just Pairings,” Forbes journalist Jessica Dupuy tackles that dilemma head‑on, offering a roster of eight wines that shine whether you’re sipping alone or raising a glass to friends and family. The article is more than a simple tasting note list; it’s a pragmatic guide that considers the person behind the palate, their style preferences, and how the wines will fit into a holiday’s social fabric.

1. A Rosé Sparkler that Turns Any Toast into a Celebration

Dupuy opens with a sparkling rosé from the Champagne region of France, highlighting its bright acidity and subtle citrus nuances that pair effortlessly with the holiday’s first bites. Unlike the typical “candy‑colored” rosé, this bottle—Mumm Champagne Rosé—offers a crisp bite, a hint of dried rose petals, and a long, mineral finish. The article notes its versatility: whether you’re welcoming guests at a brunch or serving it as a stand‑alone cocktail, the rosé’s effervescence keeps the mood light and festive. Dupuy also links to the brand’s own tasting guide, giving readers a deeper dive into the terroir that influences the wine’s character.

2. A Rich, Oaked Chardonnay that Bridges Tradition and Trend

The second wine on the list is a Chardonnay from Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. This barrel‑aged white boasts a buttery texture, with notes of tropical fruit and a gentle toast that reminds one of holiday cookies. Dupuy points out that the wine’s balanced acidity makes it safe for people who might find heavier whites overpowering, while still satisfying the palate of those who appreciate a classic “New‑World” oaky profile. The article even links to a video interview with the winemaker, providing insight into the “cold‑gravity” fermentation that preserves the fruit’s freshness.

3. A Classic Cab that Delivers Complexity Without the Pretension

For those who gravitate toward bold reds, Dupuy recommends a Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley’s Carneros region. The wine’s layered flavor profile—black cherry, chocolate, and a whisper of cedar—makes it a conversation starter. Importantly, Dupuy cautions that it is approachable enough for casual drinkers yet complex enough for the wine aficionado. The article links to the vineyard’s “Sustainable Farming” page, underscoring the growing trend of environmentally conscious winemaking—a factor increasingly relevant to the “person” behind the wine.

4. A Smooth Merlot for Those Who Prefer a Soft Touch

Dupuy’s fourth pick, a Merlot from the Coonawarra region of Australia, offers a silky mouthfeel and a bouquet of plum, blackberry, and a hint of vanilla. Its lower tannin structure makes it ideal for holiday gatherings where people may want a wine that won’t clash with a wide array of dishes. The article points readers to an external review from Wine Spectator, noting its 95‑point rating and encouraging a “pour and enjoy” approach rather than a formal pairing session.

5. A Spiced Riesling that Brings Holiday Warmth

Holiday wine is not limited to reds and whites. Dupuy introduces a Riesling from the Mosel region in Germany that has been infused with warm spices like cinnamon and clove. The wine carries an aromatic bouquet that hints at apricot, apple, and a floral finish. It’s an excellent choice for those who love a slightly sweet wine that can act as both a palate cleanser and a conversation starter. The article includes a link to a blog post from the vineyard about their “Traditional Steamed Riesling Production,” giving readers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the wine’s creation.

6. A Dessert Port That Delivers Decadence

For dessert lovers, Dupuy recommends a Vintage Port from the Douro Valley. This ruby‑colored wine features concentrated flavors of blackberries, espresso, and a subtle smoky undertone. The article emphasizes its “full body” and “creamy texture,” ideal for topping off a holiday dessert or simply sipping in the evening. Dupuy links to a tasting guide on the Port Institute website, which provides pairing suggestions that go beyond traditional cheese.

7. An Alternative Champagne that Keeps the Sparkle Alive

Dupuy also features a Crémant de Bourgogne, an excellent alternative to traditional Champagne that still delivers the same sparkling luxury. Its light body, with notes of green apple and a hint of brioche, makes it approachable for people who might find Champagne’s intensity too much. The article links to a video where the producer explains the “traditional method” that gives the wine its characteristic fine bubbles.

8. A Biodynamic Wine That Connects Drinkers to the Soil

Finally, the article introduces a biodynamic Cabernet Franc from Bordeaux that offers a subtle earthiness combined with bright red fruit. Dupuy explains that the biodynamic approach—where the vineyard is considered a living organism—provides a unique story for the “person” to share. The wine’s lower alcohol content and “green” profile make it a welcome alternative for those who want a lighter, more sustainable holiday option. The article links to the biodynamic certification organization, giving readers a quick glance at what “biodynamic” really means.

Why the Article Emphasizes People, Not Pairings

Dupuy’s central thesis is that holiday wine should not be merely a functional accompaniment to food. Instead, it should be chosen with an eye toward personal enjoyment and social storytelling. She underscores this with several key points:

1. The Emotional Connection: Holidays are about shared moments. A wine that feels “authentic” to a person’s taste can enhance the emotional value of those moments.
2. Accessibility and Appropriateness: Not everyone is a wine connoisseur; the article provides approachable options that do not require advanced tasting knowledge.
3. Sustainability and Storytelling: By highlighting biodynamic and sustainably‑produced wines, the article taps into contemporary consumer values, adding a layer of conversation beyond the glass.
4. Versatility in Serving Contexts: Each wine is described with specific serving ideas— from a sparkling rosé to toast guests to a smooth Merlot to sip after dessert—allowing readers to envision the wine’s role at their event.

The piece also encourages readers to “ask the winemaker” and “listen to the story behind each bottle,” a practice that deepens the holiday experience. For instance, the linked video interviews provide insights that readers can bring up at the table, turning a simple glass of wine into a living, breathing anecdote.

Takeaway for Holiday Planning

In the end, Dupuy offers a holistic approach to holiday wine selection. Her eight choices represent a spectrum of styles, price points, and production philosophies—ensuring there’s something for the crisp, the sweet, the robust, and the sustainable. By focusing on the person who will be drinking, she provides a set of tools for selecting wines that will resonate on a personal level while also enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Whether you’re planning a formal dinner, a casual gathering, or simply need a wine to unwind with after the holiday bustle, this Forbes article provides a thoughtful roadmap to choose a bottle that speaks to your taste, your values, and the joyous moments ahead.