Holiday Season Wine Trends, what our CorkRules App users drinking!

Holiday Season Wine Trends, what our CorkRules App users drinking!

As we delve into the holiday season, our community of wine enthusiasts at CorkRules is buzzing with excitement. Our users are out and about, savoring some fantastic wines that are trending this festive period. We have compiled a list of these top-rated wines complete with detailed reviews, tasting notes, producer's history and food pairing recommendations.

1. Billecart Salmon - Brut Rose Champagne NV

Champagne is always a top selection among our users. Billecart-Salmon is at the top of list and they been producing exceptional champagnes since 1818 in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, France. The Brut Rosé NV is no exception to their tradition of excellence. It received an impressive score of 94 points from Wine Spectator.

This champagne enchants you with its beautiful pale pink color and delicate bubbles. On the nose, it reveals aromas of fresh red fruits and citrus zest which carry through to the palate along with subtle hints of dried fruit and toasted brioche. The body is light yet expressive; acidity perfectly balanced making it crisp but not overwhelming; tannins are almost imperceptible giving way to a smooth finish.

Pair this delightful bubbly with smoked salmon or sushi for an unforgettable gastronomic experience!

Partial List of Featured Restaurants serving Billecart – Restaurant Guy Savoy, Las Vegas, NV – Aquerello San Francisco, CA – Barbuto NY, NY

2. Melville - Chardonnay Estate Sta Rita Hills 2019

Melville Winery located in California’s Santa Rita Hills AVA has been crafting exquisite wines since 1987 focusing on cool-climate varietals like Chardonnay. Their Estate Chardonnay scored a commendable 92 points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate for its vibrant character.

It opens up with intoxicating aromas of ripe apple, pear, white flowers complemented by subtle oak nuances. On tasting it offers a medium-bodied structure packed full flavors mirroring the nose along with mineral undertones that add complexity. Acidity levels are well-balanced, making it refreshing while the tannins are soft and well-integrated.

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishesor grilled chicken.

Partial List of Featured Restaurants serving Melville – Essential by Christophe NY, NY - Plumed Horse Saratoga, CA – Woodwind Chicago, IL

3. Trimbach - Riesling

Trimbach, a family-owned winery in Alsace, France has been producing wines since 1626. Their Riesling 390th Anniversary edition celebrates their rich heritage and scored an impressive 93 points from Wine Enthusiast.

The wine exhibits vibrant aromas of green apple, lime zest, wet stone and white flowers. On the palate it is dry with high acidity which gives it a zesty freshness. The body is medium with flavors echoing the nose along with a minerally finish that lingers on your palate.

Enjoy this Riesling alongside spicy Asian cuisine or fresh seafood for a delightful pairing!

Partial List of Featured Restaurants serving Trimbach – STK Steakhouse Scottsdale, AZ - The Martin's Key West, FL, - Lure Fishbar NY, NY

4. Alain Graillot - Crozes Hermitage 2019

Alain Graillot established his winery in Northern Rhône Valley in 1985 and quickly gained recognition for his Syrah-based wines like Crozes-Hermitage.

It received a notable score of 92 points from Vinous due to its expressive character. The wine opens up with enticing aromas of blackberry, black pepper spice, violets followed by earthy undertones. On tasting you will find it full-bodied yet balanced by firm tannins and good acidity levels providing structure to dark fruit flavors present on the palate.

Pair this red wine with hearty meat dishes like lamb stew or steak au poivre for an excellent match!

Partial List of Featured Restaurants serving Alain Graillot – The Lobster Club NY, NY - Del Ray Cafe Alexandria, VA - Bourbon Steak Seattle, WA

5. Cade - Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain 2018

Cade Estate Winery located on Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain was founded in 2005 by Gavin Newsom & Gordon Getty focusing on environmentally responsible winemaking practices. Their Cabernet Sauvignon received a stellar 96 points from Wine Advocate for its bold character.

The wine greets you with rich aromas of black cherry, cassis, mocha and cedar. On the palate it is full-bodied with robust tannins and balanced acidity supporting flavors that mirror the nose along with hints of dark chocolate on the finish.

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with grilled red meats or mature cheeses.

Partial List of Featured Restaurants serving Cade: Buffalo Club Santa Monica, Ca – Frankie and Johnnie’s Steakhouse NY, NY – Karne Korean Steakhouse Houston, TX

We hope this list inspires your holiday season wine selections. Remember to share your experiences on CorkRules app as we love hearing about your wine adventures! Cheers to a festive season filled with great wines and good company!