Gatherings with friends, dinners with the family, parties at the office, gifts for clients – there’s a lot of celebrating to be had during the holiday season. Curious what drinks will make the best impression at any event? Check out these holiday party recommendations from Mike’s sommelier and spirits guru – Eric Noblet!
Wine
It’s hard to go wrong with gifting a nice bottle of wine. It’s a classic choice suitable for almost any function. From casual to formal, wine is always an appreciated gift. The question is, which wine to select?
“You don’t have to break the bank on high-priced bottle for gifting the host of a holiday party,” Eric says. “There are dozens of quality mid-range bottles that will impress without breaking your budget.”
Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are the varietals to shop for this season. The wide range of flavors within these wine types balance richness and warmth, making them approachable, yet sophisticated.
Walk the aisles of Mike’s, you’ll see there are hundreds of wine options to choose from. Eric’s suggestion – “Turn the bottle around and look at the importer. As you start to find your favorite wine brands, branch out and try other options from the same importer!” Some of Eric’s favorite importers right now are Kermit Lynch and Skurnik.
Cool Weather Recommendations
Below, you’ll find Eric’s current top picks for French and Italian wines this fall.
- Occhipinti Rosso SP68 2022
- Occhipinti Bianco SP68 2022
- Occhipinti Il Frappato Siciliane 2022
- Domaine du Salvard Cheverny Blanc
- Sancerre Hippolyte Reverdy
- La Spinetta Bordini Barbaresco
- La Spinetta Barolo Garretti
Spirits
All the classic spirits – whiskey, rum, gin, tequila, even vodka – are welcome at holiday parties and deserve a spot on the guest list. Whether looking for something smooth to sip or the perfect base for a holiday-inspired cocktail, these spirits are a good place to start.
- Elijah Craig and Old Forester
- Citadelle Gins
- Planteray 3 Star Rum and Cimarron Additive-Free Blanco Tequila
- KOVAL Cranberry Gin Liqueur – perfect for holiday cocktails!
- Local favorite – Rieger Vodka
Party Planning Made Easy with Mike’s Libations Concierge!
In charge of getting all the drinks for your next holiday event? For events larger or small, Mike’s is your go-to libation concierge!
Mike’s event coordinator can work with you to build a custom drink package as well as provide guidance on cocktail creation and wine selection. And don’t worry about carting the libations to your office party, winter wedding, or client entertainment event. Mike’s delivers throughout the metro!
Click to read more about party planning with Mike’s!