Though you prefer a festive holiday cocktail, nothing beats the simplicity of a glass of wine during the Christmas season. If you have a hard time choosing the best Christmas wines, we’ve included some top suggestions. So read on our recommendations for this year’s fest.
Benefits of Wine
Is drinking wine healthy? Emerging research says that drinking wine in moderation about a glass per day offers many health benefits.
Rich in Antioxidants
Out of the many antioxidant-rich beverages, wine holds a respected place. Grapes have antioxidant polyphenols that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Red grapes have more antioxidant content than white grapes, so drinking red wine boosts your antioxidant levels. Studies say that drinking red wine may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
May Fight Inflammation
Wine helps to reduce inflammation. According to research, the compound resveratrol present in red grapes has anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation may increase diseases such as heart disease, certain cancers, and autoimmune diseases. So including foods that reduce inflammation may help to reduce the risk of these chronic inflammatory conditions.
May Boost Heart Health.
Health experts say that a high concentration of polyphenol antioxidants could help reduce the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and metabolic diseases. Research shows that people who drink a moderate amount of wine have reduced rates of heart disease. Some studies contradict this finding, so further research is needed to prove wine may boost heart health.
Other Health Benefits
An occasional glass of wine may reduce depression. Due to the high antioxidant content, drinking moderate wine as part of a healthy diet may boost longevity. Likewise, drinking red wine may encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which improves metabolic markers in obese people.
Potential Drawbacks
There are potential downsides to drinking excess alcohol. Several health risks include liver and pancreatic disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and heart disease. However, studies have found that drinking a moderate amount of wine 150 ml and a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables offers multiple health benefits.
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5 Best Christmas Wines for This Festive Season
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#1. Campus Oaks Winemaker’s Reserve
Voted as an all-time favorite, Winemaker’s reserve is highly fruit flavored with baking spice notes and bold vanilla. It is pretty attractive in deep garnet and has a flavor mix of plum, cherry, vanilla, and baking spice finish. Suitable for pairing with stuffed mushrooms, grilled meats, and Lasagna Bolognese, this vintage wine can hold up to three years. A happy customer says that she loves the hidden notes of cherry.
#2. Clos Lachance Merlot
Aged in premium Frech Oak, this earthy medium-bodied dry wine goes well with chicken parmesan, truffle cheese, or braised rack of lamb. The palate mixture of cranberries, dried cherries, vanilla, and wet stone, prevent it from tipping in the too-sweet territory. Opaque and soft purple, it has aromas of blueberry, vanilla, raspberry, and tobacco leaf. Moreover, it’s vegan and certified sustainable.
#3. Mont Ferro Bradley Vineyards
A winner of the Gold Medal in Sunset International Wine Competition, Mont Ferro is a hundred percent final blend of Pinot Noir. Pretty in pink, Mont Ferro has a highly floral aromatic scent. The flavor is multi-layered fruit on the mid-palate and pureed raspberries and crushed blossoms on the finish. Its hold time is up to 5 years and easily pairs with cream sauces, light meat, and fish.
#4. Lomond Cape Agulhas
Lomond has beautiful blackberry undertones with aromas of classic spice. It’s a Double Gold medal winner and easily pairs with lamb stew. The aromatic flavors of white pepper with dark fruit tannins are crisp enough to cut through the fat and leave your palate ready for the next bite.
#5. Crux
A final blend of Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Mourvèdre Crux has a deep purple color with aromas of brambles, leather, and dark berries. It pairs well with salmi, barbecue, or slow-cooked meats. Wow! You can enjoy it now or hold it for up to 15 years. Featured in the signature series of the California Wine Club Crux is a winner of several prestigious competitions.
Winding-Up
To sum up, we’ve given you a low down on some of the best Christmas wines. Choose your pick, enjoy in moderation, and have a good time with your folks.