Indulge in pleasure wines this holiday season

(NC) You can often make this busy time of year shine a bit brighter by adding a few small luxuries to your meals or evenings. Whether you're rejoicing a meaningful personal milestone or enjoying a festive gathering with family and friends, consider celebrating with pleasure wines.

Based on the philosophy “consume less but consume better,” pleasure wines are trending among foodies and wine connoisseurs. Spearheaded by wines from the Rhône Valley in France, pleasure wines from this region boast a number of benefits to make these your goto wines for every occasion.

Rich history. The vineyards of the Rhône Valley, which forms a corridor between the Mediterranean Sea and Northern Europe, have been producing wines for at least 2000 years. One of the most ancient wine-growing areas in the world, Rhône Valley wines have a history of having delighted the Roman Empire and 14th century popes. Today, every 12 seconds a bottle of Rhône Valley AOC wine is enjoyed somewhere in the world.

Vibrant land. Of all the wine regions in France, Rhône Valley has the greatest soil diversity and its climate is favourable to an integrated viticulture. Roughly 95 per cent of Rhône Valley wines are produced in the south. The sunny Mediterranean climate that prevails here is ideal for grape growing. Even in the cooler, continental Northern Rhône Valley, summers are generally warm and dry.

Grape varieties. Rhône wines derive their style, richness and originality from the diversity of the region's grape varieties. The area boasts 28 appellations and 27 grape varieties for many delightful reds, whites and rosés that pair perfectly with your favourite foods. Popular appellations include Côtes du Vivarais, Luberon, Côtes du Rhône, Condrieu and Saint-péray.