6 products to indulge in over the holidays

Festive occasions call for festive libations—ones with a touch more sophistication and cachet, perfect for special events. From an ethical Bordeaux to a regal Barolo, the products from the following selection are worthy of consideration. They each invite you to slow down in order to truly savour and take in their subtleties. At this time of year, it’s important to give yourself a little breather amid the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Sometimes, true luxury is the time you take to fully appreciate precious moments. 

This wine embodies the nobility of Nebbiolo grapes, which are used exclusively to produce Barolo, rightly called the king of wines. The deep ruby hue signals the bold aroma of dried fruit, rose petals and soft spices, rounded out by toasted notes and a hint of herbs. With an impeccable balance of tannins and freshness, it offers both intensity and elegance. 

This distinctive and enjoyable Barolo will bring out the deliciousness of dishes made with game, red meat or roasts, as well as savoury and aged cheeses.

Created in 1952, this iconic wine captures the essence of its terroir. No surprise then that it’s the best-selling Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the world! Fun fact—the shape of the bottle evokes the grapevines that sway in the mistral wind that blows through the region. 

Combining finesse and an intense aroma, this blend of Grenache Noir and Syrah is made with 30 to 40% wine from previous vintages preserved in a cellar, which helps it develop richer and more complex flavours. With hints of blackcurrant, warm spices, cooked fruit, and licorice, this superb batch positively sings. The taste of ripe black fruit with jammy notes is balanced out by the freshness of red fruit. It’s perfect for sharing with dinner guests!

Classified Cru Bourgeois—a distinction reserved for the best wines from the Médoc since 1932—this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot will have you coming back for more, thanks to its aromas of blueberry, blackcurrant, cedar, and mocha. And its value for money is enticing, too! Château Plagnac is a prime example of a wine from the Médoc subregion with its full-bodied flavour and assertive tannins, as well as a finesse that comes from the clay-limestone terroir. Eco-minded Bordeaux fans will love this product, as the vineyard earned HVE3 (Haute Valeur Environnementale Niveau 3) credentials—the highest level for this certification—demonstrating its commitment to sustainable viticulture. This wine is easy to drink, but you can also let it age for a few years. And it makes for an excellent gift for hosts! 

A favourite among lovers of Spanish wine, this balanced—and affordable!—Tempranillo is a go-to for many dinner parties, judging from the 145 or so positive customer reviews on SAQ.com, as well as the multiple prizes awarded to different vintages over the years.

This intense and velvety dry red pairs beautifully with meat and other particularly savoury recipes. Its subtle woody notes come from it being aged in oak casks, which elevates the spicy quality typical to the Tempranillo and gives it enough body to stand up to a variety of dishes packed with flavour. 

Fontanafredda has long set the standard for wines in the Barolo region. Known for its exceptional terroir, this vineyard makes elegant and complex products that translate to a T the fruity, floral and mineral flavour profile of Nebbiolo grapes. 

This 2020 vintage is just the thing for anyone who’s new to Barolo, undoubtedly offering one of the best values for money for this particular appellation. With an enchanting aroma of red stone fruit and spices, it combines robustness and finesse, boasting a balanced tannic structure and a lingering finish. It would be an excellent accompaniment to game meat, bringing the depth and freshness needed to take the flavours to the next level. 

A legendary distillery in the Scottish Highlands, the Dalmore has been producing first-rate Scotch since 1839. After being aged in American oak barrels that were previously used for bourbon, this single malt develops sweet hints of vanilla and honey. It’s then matured in Oloroso Sherry casks carefully curated from the world’s best cellars, which gives it its rich profile and aroma of hazelnuts. The whisky presents a roasted and fruity flavour that opens up to reveal subtle vegetal, smoked and salty notes. 

This rich and complex single malt is a credit to its pedigree. Serve it to connoisseurs, preferably as you sit by the fire! 

Whether you’re marking something special or turning an intimate occasion into a bigger celebration, these six products are sure bets for treating yourself at the end of the year. Cheers to life’s simple pleasures! 

In partership with Beni di Batasiolo, Maison Brotte, Château Plagnac Médoc Cru Bourgeois, Fréchette - vins d'exception, Fontanafredda et The Dalmore Distillery.

Go to our holiday gift guide