When it snows, it’s the perfect time to enjoy big red wines. The cold weather and cozy indoor setting make it ideal for indulging in rich, warming drinks. Whether you’re staying in or preparing for a ski trip, having the right wine on hand can enhance your experience. The peacefulness that comes with a snowstorm, especially when the city slows down, creates an excellent opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine. As you gather with friends or even engage in fun activities like a snowball fight with neighbors, these wines are sure to keep the mood warm and cheerful.
One exceptional wine to try during snowy days is Cruse Wine Co.’s Sparkling Valdiguié, a refreshing rosé made from Valdiguié grapes. These grapes, grown in Napa Valley’s Rancho Chimiles, are from old vines and bring out a unique and delightful flavor.
Valdiguié, a red grape originally from the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southern France, is also known as Napa Gamay in the area. Cruse, a talented winemaker, is gaining recognition for his innovative approach, and this sparkling rosé is a prime example of his work. The wine’s crispness and subtle fruitiness are perfect for the winter season, making it an excellent choice to share with friends or enjoy on your own.
Elegance in a Bottle: Robert Sinskey Vineyards’ SLD Cabernet
Another wine to consider on a cold day is Robert Sinskey Vineyards’ SLD Cabernet Sauvignon, a complex and flavorful red from the Stags Leap District in Napa Valley. This wine is known for its rich profile, blending notes of black fruit, leather, and earthy undertones. However, the 2017 vintage has become a bit of a rarity, as it was the last harvest before fire damage affected the vineyard.
Despite these challenges, the vineyard continues to produce amazing wines from its new location at Wilding Farm in Carneros. The SLD Cabernet is a perfect pick for anyone looking to enjoy a bold wine, and you can still find the 2017 vintage available online. It’s a great way to experience the vineyard’s high-quality craftsmanship, even during difficult times.
For another memorable wine, look to Paradigm Winery, which is owned by Ren and Marilyn Harris, who have deep roots in Napa Valley. Marilyn’s family has been farming in the area for generations, while Ren’s ancestry traces back to the founders of the Presidio of San Diego.
In the late 1960s, the couple purchased a prune orchard in Oakville and transformed it into a vineyard. Paradigm’s Cabernet Sauvignons from the 2015, 2016, and 2017 vintages are especially noteworthy because they have been carefully aged before release, meaning they are already perfectly ready to enjoy. This attention to detail and commitment to aging wines sets Paradigm apart as a top-tier Napa Valley producer, and their wines are always a great choice for any winter occasion.
Sonoma’s Star: Pax Mahle’s Hillsides Syrah
If you’re a fan of Syrah, Pax Mahle’s 2021 Sonoma-Hillsides Syrah is a standout. This Syrah is made entirely from grapes grown on organically farmed hillside vineyards in Sonoma County. These diverse sites, ranging from rocky slopes to sandy soils, contribute to the wine’s unique and balanced flavor profile.
The wine has an excellent combination of power and harmony, with deep fruit flavors and a touch of pink and white pepper for extra complexity. Pax Mahle is known for his meticulous winemaking and his ability to create wines that showcase the best of Sonoma’s terroir. If you’re looking for a red wine that delivers richness without overpowering the palate, this Syrah is a great choice for winter nights.
For those who prefer whiskey, Henry McKenna’s 10-year-old Bottled-in-Bond bourbon is a fantastic option. This bourbon, once easily available at a low price, has recently gained more attention, and the price has increased as a result. However, it remains a great value considering its age and high proof.
The Bottled-in-Bond label indicates that the bourbon has been produced according to strict regulations, ensuring quality and consistency. To earn this label, the bourbon must be made in one distillation season, aged for at least four years in a government-supervised warehouse, and bottled at 100 proof. If you can find a bottle, it’s an excellent choice for sipping and enjoying the rich, smooth flavor it offers.