As we approach the season of indulgence, it’s important to be aware of a threat more daunting than dry turkey, lumpy mashed potatoes, or your cousin’s questionable research. This particular horror arrives in a deceptive glass bottle.
As you sit down at the festive table, preparing for the usual chaos of congealing casseroles, bubbling gravy boats, and opinionated relatives, a sinister presence makes itself known: Yellow Tail.
A bottle of lackluster chardonnay, ominously placed like a villain in a B-movie. Your heart races as memories of college hangovers, regretful wine choices, and the metallic taste of embarrassment flood back.
You reach for your glass, realizing that life is too short, the turkey is too dry, and the world is too chaotic to endure supermarket wine. The solution is clear: Bring your own bottle. A bottle robust enough to withstand the spiral ham, the leftovers in foil, and your uncle’s third rant of the evening about conspiracy theories.
To navigate this season unscathed, we turned to wine experts in Boulder and Denver for their recommendations on what to bring home this year — from crisp Champagnes to Italian whites bursting with citrus and herbs, to structured reds under $75 that pair perfectly with food.
First up is James Keiser, beverage manager at Corsica Wine Bar in Denver. Instead of trying to impress strangers at the table, Keiser focuses on what his mom enjoys. A fan of California chardonnay, she’s never strayed beyond Sonoma Coast or Russian River Valley. This holiday season, Keiser plans to introduce her to something new, like a 2016 Domaine Ventoura Chardonnay from Burgundy.
Even if she finds it too light, Keiser is content with the opportunity to share a new experience with her. For Keiser, wine has always been a holiday tradition in his family, marking the official start of the season with a special bottle.
At Corsica, Keiser recommends Buganza’s Uva e Mani Nebbiolo as a versatile option that pleases both Cabernet and Pinot Noir enthusiasts. He also suggests a Langhe Nebbiolo from Tintero, a crowd-pleaser at $45 that disappears quickly.
When shopping for wine, Keiser turns to Mr. B’s Wine & Spirits for unique finds, especially fun PĂ©t-Nats or lesser-known producers. For larger gatherings, he recommends Molly’s Spirits or Total Wine for discounts on case purchases.
At Barcelona Wine Bar in Denver, beverage director Michael Harney aims to impress his extended family with holiday wine selections. A former beer enthusiast turned wine expert, Harney curates complex and nuanced wines for the Thanksgiving table, with a particular fondness for Vega Clara Mario, a Tempranillo-Cabernet blend from Spain.
For a more budget-friendly option, he recommends LĂłpez de Heredia’s Viña Cubillo Crianza from Rioja, a classic choice with a decade of aging at an affordable price.
When shopping for wine, Harney frequents Highlands Wine and Liquor, known for its extensive old-world wine selection. He also appreciates Cask and Craft for their unique offerings and regular discounts.
At Sienna Wine Bar in Denver, owner Mary Kent celebrates the holidays with an abundance of champagne, focusing on serving quality bubbly to guests. Kent’s love for Laurent-Perrier’s CuvĂ©e RosĂ© Brut and La Capranera Falanghina shines through, offering affordable yet delightful options for holiday gatherings.
For those seeking a showstopping yet affordable choice, Kent recommends the Gianni Gagliardo Fallegro Favorita, a sparkling Vermentino with captivating fruity and spicy notes.
In Boulder, Carlin Karr, wine and beverage director at Frasca Hospitality Group, shares her holiday wine preferences. With a focus on versatile wines that complement a variety of dishes, Karr recommends Pinot Noir from Burgundy or Cru Beaujolais for Thanksgiving. For a touch of everyday elegance, she suggests Friulano, like the Due del Monte, with its refreshing acidity and texture.
As December approaches, Karr turns to Nebbiolo, particularly Barolo, for its festive Alpine character and structured profile. She highlights Vajra’s Albe, Fratelli Alessandria’s Comune di Verduno, and Brovia from Castiglione Falletto as standout choices.
For an affordable yet impressive red, Karr recommends Chianti Classico, specifically Tregole and Istine for exceptional quality at a reasonable price.
When it comes to sparkling wine, Karr prefers Blanc de Blancs from the Côte des Blancs region, such as Pierre Peters Cuvée de Réserve and Agrapart 7 Crus, for their refreshing and celebratory qualities.
When not sourcing wine through Frasca, Karr supports independent retailers like Denver Wine Merchant, Mondo Vino, and Proof in Denver, as well as Wine Merchant and Hazel’s in Boulder.
For a more unconventional choice, Karr enjoys spirits like tequila or Chartreuse, reserving the latter for special moments at home.
This holiday season, bypass the standard fare and elevate your celebrations with exceptional wines recommended by experts. Cheers to a festive and flavorful season!
