THE WINE GUY

THE SWIRL: A bonus bottle for stuffing stockings

There are four shopping days until Christmas. Admittedly, all gifts should be accounted for by now, the list crossed off and presents wrapped snug under the Christmas tree. But life being what it is (and speaking from experience), there’s no doubt a slew of procrastinators looking for lastminute gifts. The great thing is, wine makes for an easy last-minute gift, one that can still be pulled off with class and panache.

Who says stockings are just for kids? How did Santa know to stuff my stocking with a personal-sized bottle of Prosecco? Mionetto’s Brut Prosecco is now available in 200mL bottles ($5.29, #127043), offering its citrusy, lemon candy stance complemented by an off-dry kiss and a fresh, fruity finish in portable form perfect for holiday brunches. Contact James: @hadaglass

Varias La Bona Vida Brut Cava, Spain ($17.99 limited time offer until Dec. 30, #952838)

A bottle for the host/hostess. You get the open house invite and ask,“What can I bring?” The response is “Nothing, just yourself.” It’s a completely rational and legitimate exchange, and yet you know you won’t show up empty-handed. So bring a bottle of sparkling wine (but don’t be offended if it doesn’t get opened while you’re in attendance). Bring a bottle like Varias Brut, a Cava that oozes citrus and toasty, herbal notes with a robust and rich body that finishes balanced, lemony, and crisp.

Bottom line: B+, Crowdpleasing sparkler.

Rigamarole 2015 Red, British Columbia ($13.99, #818641)

A bottle for the Secret Santa exchange. Hopefully your Secret Santa exchange has a $15 budget. If it’s $10; well just go for the gift card! I’ve never had a bottle of wine not get well received at a gift exchange, and the Rigamarole Red hits the wine pleasure points: fun name and label, local, and a soft, easy-to-appreciate blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz featuring dark fruit and mocha followed by a soft, round finish. Bottom line: B, Fun, solid value red.

Sacred Hill 2016 Reserve Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay, New Zealand ($26.99, #124985)

A bottle for the Tinder match. The holidays are best shared with others, and while this is not always possible, it’s worth trying. So whether you’re swiping right or looking to celebrate your significant other, consider gifting up a bottle for a toast. Sacred Hill Chardonnay pours light golden and engages with great texture and nuances of mineral, brioche, citrus, and tropical fruit. It’s silky and smooth, with a lick of spice to finish.

Bottom line: B+, Supple, enticing white.