Find the Perfect Pairing for Your Holiday Meal

The holidays ask a lot of what’s in your glass. Wines need to welcome guests, carry meals, and hold their own long after the plates are cleared. This guide reflects our aapproach to seasonal pairings, moving from sparkling wines that start the evening right, to whites and reds that complement the table with ease, and finishing with Scotch that’s meant for lingering conversations. Each section highlights bottles we trust for holiday meals with a focus on versatility, balance, and value.

Champagne for All My Friends!

Pure class in a bottle, the Héritage is tête de cuvée quality that will go head-to-head with most anything double its price.

2016 Cristal: The Best Since the 2008 Vintage

When I read that the team at Roederer were comparing their newly released 2016 Louis Roederer "Cristal" Brut Champagne to the 2008, I have to admit that I was very skeptical. I love it when great wine proves my skeptical heart wrong. Last night, Cinnamon and I drank this great vintage of Cristal with homemade sashimi bowls, and while I was very impressed from just tasting the wine for this video, now I am a complete convert—this is definitely the best Cristal for me since the 2008; it has an energy, a sheen, a brilliance that reminds me so much of that great vintage.

For the Holidays, Champagne Is Always a Hit

The holidays are upon us, and it is time to pop the Champagne! We have a fabulous selection for you this year that covers the bases from top values from our direct import grower-producers to very special bottles from the Grande Marque house

A Thanksgiving Feast So Nice He Does It Twice

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. I like it so much that it is worth doing twice—the first time to “test out my recommendations for the year”… or at least that is my excuse to get a preview of the main event. Everything about Thanksgiving is perfect for me: I love the sentiment of gratefulness; the opportunity to gather friends and family; the traditional spread of roast turkey, gravy, stuffing, and mashed potatoes; and double fisting with rosé Champagne and Burgundy at the table. This weekend we did just that, and I am happy to report that I have two great Champagnes and one great bottle of Burgundy that have been thoroughly tested and vetted chez Westby by me and my wife Cinnamon!

Holiday Buying Guide: Gary’s Favorite Champagne Gifts

When it comes to gifts under $100, it is hard to do better than the Champagnes from Launois in Mesnil. These wines have an accessibility that makes them the hit of every party; they are a gift that is always appreciated. The value for money will be your secret!

Champagne Winners for a Holiday Season to Remember

It's that time of year when our Champagne program shines, and this year we have more direct-import standouts than ever to make your holidays sparkle. Recent reloads from a trio of DI favorites will have long-time fans stocking up, while the iconic Billecart-Salmon's current releases offer holiday luxury at nearly any price point. Finally, Champagne buyer Gary Westby's "boots on the ground" approach pays off once again with a pair of new direct-import additions that are sure to garner legions of fans once the wines make it to your table.

K&L Wine Merchants

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