Regional Wines for Your Holiday Season

Jennifer Stockdale • November 9, 2020

From the perfect gift to the perfect toast, here are a dozen regional wines to make your holiday season merry.

For the serious wine collector

2017 Black Russian Red 
McGregor Vineyard, Dundee, NY
$80.00
A collectable, classic-made from Eastern European Saperavi and Sereksiya Charni grapes with flavors of black current, blackberry, toasty oak and smoky spice. This wine is meant to be cellared and enjoyed on a special occasion. Available at 

2017 Arcturos Winter Harvest Riesling 
Black Star Farms, Traverse City, MI
$52.50
A luscious, late-harvest wine that drinks like an ice wine. Enjoy beautiful sweetness with a nice backbone and a honey-smooth finish. Available at blackstarfarms.com.

2017 Merlot
Mari Vineyards, Traverse City, MI
$48.00
A beautiful, cool-climate Merlot with balanced oak and tannins to accompany a truly special holiday meal. Available at 

For the perfect housewarming gift

2016 Vinter's Barrel Blend 
Adams County Winery Orrtanna, PA
$32.99
A vinifera blend aged in bourbon barrels with flavors of ripe cherry and toasted nuts. Available at adamscountywinery.com.

2017 Chardonnay
North Coast Cellars Conneaut, OH
$26.00
Juicy pineapple fruit perfectly balanced with vanilla, toasty oak. Perfect to serve with a selection of cheeses. Available at bucciavineyards.com.

NV Lady of the Lakes Bubbly Moscato 
Heron Hill Winery Hammondsport, NY
$14.99
A light, refreshing crowd pleaser. Perfect for after dinner or cocktail hour. Sparkling, fresh fruit flavor with a smooth, sweet finish. Available at heronhill.com.

2017 Vidal Blanc
Kavic Winery Carnegie, PA
$17.99
Bright and citrusy with a smooth, sweet finish, this wine is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Available at kavicwinery.net.

For serving with your holiday dinner

2016 Pinot Noir "Clos Mes Amis"
Harpersfield Vineyard & Winery Geneva, OH
$26.99
Light cranberry and warm, toasty oak, perfect for your holiday turkey. 
Available at winesfromitaly.com.

2018 Three Note Riesling (from vines planted in 2016)
Kemmeter Wines Penn Yan, NY
$28.00
This baby Riesling has lively citrus and apple flavors balanced with the subtle minerality of its rich soil. A friendly wine with poultry and festive dishes. Available at kemmeterwines.com.

For a festive celebration

Celebre Sparkling
Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars Hammondsport, NY
$20.99
Lush peach, nectarine and apple flavors with a delicate, sweet finish. Perfect for ringing in the new year. Available at drfrankwines.com.

NV Holiday
Mt. Hope Estate
Manheim, PA
$11.95
This cozy wine has flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg spices. The perfect wine to warm in your Crock- Pot for evening sipping. Available at mounthope.estate.

NV Holiday Blush
Ferrante Winery & Ristorante Geneva, OH
$8.99
Crisp, spicy and refreshing, this wine is perfect for a laid-back holiday afternoon. Available at 

January 21, 2025
Details and deadlines surrounding the GBU Foundation scholarship and grants for 2025.
January 3, 2025
Looking to try some new recipes this winter?
January 3, 2025
We've found some tips to keep up your sleeve this winter.
January 3, 2025
The Defined Benefit Annuity from GBU Life can help you to create a plan for a guaranteed income in retirement by making regular contributions based on your retirement income targets.
January 3, 2025
Graduating from college is an exciting milestone, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on your financial future. Building on the foundation you’ve already laid the groundwork for with smart money choices will set you up for long-term success. Here are a few key financial products to consider as you take the next step.
January 3, 2025
Kick-start your child’s journey to financial success with a whole life policy from GBU Life.
January 3, 2025
How well do you know the characters from the hit TV series The Office? Watch your reruns and get ready to test your skills in our winter trivia contest!
January 2, 2025
Did you know you can use your RMD to purchase financial products that can help to secure the future for you, your loved ones or a charitable organization that you care about?
December 6, 2024
Traveling can be one of life’s greatest joys. However, packing smart can make or break your experience. With so many gadgets and accessories out there, figuring out what’s truly useful can be overwhelming. To help you streamline your packing list, here’s a guide to the most useful travel items that will enhance your adventures. 1. The All-Purpose Carry-On Bag A durable, well-organized carry-on bag is essential. Look for one with: Compartments: separate sections for clothes, electronics and toiletries Durability: waterproof or water-resistant materials for unexpected weather Mobility: wheels and an adjustable handle for easy transport This is a must-have item because it saves you from waiting at baggage claims and prevents lost luggage during flights. 2. Travel-Friendly Toiletry Kit Opt for a compact, TSA-approved toiletry kit with refillable travel-size bottles. Bonus points if it comes with a hook for easy hanging in small hotel bathrooms. Tip: keep a separate mini toiletry bag in your carry-on with essentials like toothpaste, face wipes, and lip balm to freshen up during long journeys. 3. Portable Charger and Universal Adapter Staying connected is crucial for navigation, translating apps and emergency calls. A reliable power bank ensures your devices stay charged, especially during long flights or train rides. Pair it with a universal adapter to charge your gadgets no matter the country you’re visiting. 4. Packing Cubes Packing cubes help you stay organized by categorizing your clothes and accessories. They also maximize space in your luggage. 5. Travel Insurance and Document Organizer Keep all your travel documents—passport, visas, insurance and itinerary—in a waterproof organizer. This can be as simple as a resealable sandwich bag. 6. Reusable Water Bottle Remember to stay hydrated! Plus, a water bottle with a built-in filter ensures you have safe drinking water even in remote areas. 7. Noise-Canceling Headphones Whether you’re on a noisy plane or staying in a bustling city, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. Invest in lightweight, wireless options for added comfort. 8. Eye Mask For long-haul flights or train rides, a comfortable eye mask can help you get some rest. 9. Compact First Aid Kit Accidents and illnesses can happen anytime. A small first aid kit stocked with band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications is a must. Tip: add items like motion sickness tablets and electrolyte packs for extra preparedness. 10. Multi-Function Travel Jacket Look for jackets with built-in storage—many designs come with hidden pockets for passports, phones, and even water bottles! These jackets are perfect for streamlining your essentials. Tip: if you’re going somewhere with a cold climate, consider bringing a large scarf that can also double as a blanket or wrap. 11. Daypack or Sling Bag A small, secure bag for day trips is essential. Choose one with anti-theft features like lockable zippers or RFID-blocking technology to protect your valuables. 12. Versatile Footwear Depending on your itinerary, pack a pair of lightweight walking shoes, sandals and waterproof boots. Opt for neutral colors and comfortable designs to match various outfits. Packing the right items makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Start with these essentials, and tailor them to your destination and travel style. Remember, the key to efficient packing is quality over quantity. Remember to focus on versatile, durable and practical items that suit your needs!
Two people exchanging gifts
December 5, 2024
To help you shine at your next workplace white elephant party, here’s a list of affordable and useful gift ideas.
More Posts
Share by: