Explore international reds for your holiday meal

As belts are loosened and the pumpkin pie makes an appearance, you can even conclude with a red wine. One of my favorite wines is an ice wine from Canada, such as Inniskillen, which is made with cabernet franc. A little goes a long way; it’s not overly sweet, and if you pass on the pie, you still end your meal with something sweet.

Make your journey to purchase these wines as exciting as they are to drink, not as an afterthought at the grocery store. There are a number of places in San Diego that have very qualified staff to guide you to your perfect bottle or to answer questions about varietals you have never explored. One of my favorite places to go is Truly Fine Wine on Morena Boulevard. Damon and Sabrina will introduce you to the world of German wine, which goes way beyond riesling. Also try San Diego Wine Company, which not only offers wines from around the globe, but an array of pricing, and smart salespeople.

Downtown, there is Bacchus Wine Market. Also, ask your favorite sommelier or other savvy wine person. For sommeliers and lovers of wine, what to drink with the bounty on the table usually involves more contemplation than what we are cooking. If you are dining out for the holidays, look for these selections on the wine list.

This year has brought a lot of gloomy news, but it’s time to pull a cork, pour a glass of whatever you enjoy, and celebrate. Wine has a magic all its own. It makes lifelong friends out of strangers and makes a meal into a feast.

Lisa Redwine is restaurant manager and wine director for The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla.


