Stacking my Cases for the Season

It’s hard working in the wine industry.  Especially during the holidays.

When I arrive at a holiday party, I know the hostess is looking for that special bottle to add to the bar.  My hair stylist, nanny, and neighbors, are all a little too excited to see me as the holidays near.  Everyone tells me “oh…but you have the good wine” and are secretly hoping that I might gift a bottle.  It’s a good problem to have (people like Fidelitas!) but a problem, still.

And so, I’ve gotten good at stacking my case purchases with the right mix of wines for the season.  Here is my shopping list this year:

4040 Red Wine and Optu White on hand…always.  These are the ones that are nice to have wrapped and ready so I can gift a quick bottle to my daughter’s teachers, or whoever I come across that needs a last minute gift from us. (4040 is available by special request!)

Optu Red Mountain for hostess gifts.  This is a crowd pleaser wine.  It’ll drink great the night of a holiday party, or will age beautifully if your host decides to cellar it instead of sharing.

A couple of magnums (ESTATE! And probably some Optu) for those on my list who “have it all”.  Magnums are always impressive, even for someone with a giant wine collection.  They are great at parties, or are amazing additions to anyone’s cellar.

I love to plan ahead and grab a few cases early, so that wine is always on hand and ready to pass out.  Of course, I always make sure to grab a couple extra bottles to keep around the house so I can gave a glass in front of the tree!