There are images that instantly bring us comfort, a warm fire, a soft chair, a heavy blanket, now add to that, sipping on something delicious.  All of these things feel like a warm hug which I think you would agree, we could all use right now.  Winter is just around the corner and this is the time of year we retreat inside, light a fire, find that soft chair and get cozy.  We have some amazing suggestions for winter warmers and especially for your upcoming holiday celebrations so let's get to it.

Hamming it up!

If your having a sweet and salty glazed ham this year consider wines that are fruit forward with a bit of sweetness and lots of acid.

What we suggest:

2018 Lo-Fi Dry Riesling, Santa Barbara Co.

2019 Final Girl Chenin Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley

2018 Seagrape Rose of Grenache, Los Olivos

2016 Arndt Cellars McFrink Vineyard Zinfandel, Paso Robles

Laughing Monk "Third Circle" Belgian style Tripel, San Francisco

Turkey Please!

Are you a traditionalist for both Thanksgiving and Christmas?  That's OK (me too!) let's take a look at our Thanksgiving recommendations again.

2019 Habit Sauvignon Blanc, Happy Canyon

2017 Chanin Chardonnay, Santa Barbara Co.

2020 Lo-Fi Gamay Fresh, Santa Barbara Co.

2017 Seagrape Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills

2017 J. Dirt Grenache/Syrah Blend, Edna Valley

M. Special "Dozer Special" American Brown Ale, Goleta

Pass the Prime Rib

While Prime Rib has a powerful presence, the flavors are more medium and people often pick beverages that over power instead of elevate.

2016 Crown Point Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Happy Canyon

2015 Arndt Cellars Merlot, Paso Robles

2016 Kimsey Estate Syrah, Ballard Canyon

Laughing Monk "Evening Vespers" Belgian Dubbel, San Francisco

Temblor Brewing "Cadre" Golden Sour with Blackberries, Bakersfield

Time for dessert!

Skip the suggary eats and sip on these instead!

PasoPort - 2011 "Ruby" Port, 2010 "Violeta" Portugese style Port or "Angelica" Non vintage White Port, Paso Robles

Island Brewing "Jubilee" Scotch Ale, Carpinteria

Local Brewing "Plaid Pajamas" Amber Lager Winter Warmer, San Franciso

Temblor Brewing "Chocolate Peacan" Porter, Bakersfield