Somehow, 2020 is still going, and we’re almost at the holiday season. But what is time!
Anyway, you and your loved ones deserve some delicious wine for the holidays this year – well, you always do but it really feels necessary for 2020. Whether you’re having a Friendsgiving or actually making a trek to see family in a place that is different from where you’ve been stuck since March, bring along a few good bottles.
Shopping in person can be tough now – stores have limited (if any) hours, people aren’t comfortable being around others, or even being anywhere indoors. So we want to make sure you still get everything you’re looking for, without sacrificing your own comfort or safety!
Buy Online
Seems easy, right? But with our postal service being a bit overwhelmed, things can take a lot longer. If you’ve got a brand or varietal in mind already, get on it now! Get it straight from the winemaker/producer so you’re getting it fresh, and place that order immediately. It’s wine, so we know it can sit safely in its case as long as it isn’t opened. Try to keep it out of heat or sunlight and it can hang out until your holiday event.
Go Local
Every small business can use some revenue right now so hit up your favorite local wine shop, or find a new one to support. Give them a call, let them know what you’re looking for, and see if they have it in stock. If they do, ask them to put things aside for you to do curbside pickup. Otherwise, ask when they’ll be getting it in, and if it’s not something they sell, ask for a similar recommendation. They’ll appreciate your business, and you’ll know you’re getting a wonderful product.
Plan for the Weather
Sounds silly but try to be prepared for the location of your meal. Many of us will be experiencing the holidays outdoors. If that’s you, consider whether you’ll need to be serving something chilled. Red wines will be more ideal if you’re in a warmer climate and eating outside so you don’t have to worry about ice buckets, but we never want to shame a good white wine, so just consider this as you’re choosing.
Keep It Simple
We’ll be putting out more detailed guides for each holiday in the upcoming weeks but if you’re planning wine early and don’t know the menu yet, go for a simple favorite. If you know your mom’s favorite wine, or the bottle that is always a hit among your friends, just pick up a few now. It doesn’t have to be the most beautifully paired bottle for the turkey or the Christmas ham; it can simply be a lovely wine that you enjoy and are excited to share.
