The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing great meals, and creating special memories. And let’s face it, the right wine can take those moments to the next level.

Xavier Vignon has put together a festive lineup of wines tailored to every occasion—from aperitifs and main courses to dessert and even standout bottles perfect for gifting.

Whether you’re looking to wow your guests with a showstopping wine or add a thoughtful touch to your holiday table, this selection is all about making your celebrations truly memorable.

 

1. Start your festivities in style with the perfect pre-dinner wine

The pre-dinner moment sets the tone for your holiday gathering, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for your guests. It’s a time to mingle, share conversation, and enjoy appetizers such as smoked salmon, gourmet spreads on toast, or fresh oysters and seafood.

To complement these refined flavors and delight your guests from the very first sip, select a white wine that balances freshness, elegance, and aromatic complexity.
 

The White Châteauneuf-du-Pape – A terroir-driven gem

This white Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a refined blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, Picpoul, and other varietals, beautifully reflects the richness and diversity of its terroir. With aromas of stone fruits like vineyard peach, floral honeyed notes, and a refreshing finish, it pairs harmoniously with pre-dinner appetizers.

• Perfect pairings: Tuna tartare with tomato, shrimp toasts with lemon and dill, lobster bisque, or salmon tartare with ginger.
• Why this wine? Its freshness and vibrancy enhance light bites, setting the tone for the meal to come.
• A touch of elegance: Aged in concrete and stainless steel, it retains its pure aromatics, while its brilliant yellow hue with golden highlights adds sophistication to any table.

 

2. At the table: Wines to enhance every holiday dishes

The main course is the heart of your celebration, where guests gather to share a truly special moment. To complement this centerpiece dish, you need a wine that enhances its flavors without overpowering them, bringing an added layer of enjoyment to the meal.

Here are two perfect pairings to elevate your holiday menu.
 

The 2010 Le Pape – Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A true showstopper for any festive table, the 2010 Le Pape is a 100% Grenache Châteauneuf-du-Pape crafted from century-old vines with meticulous attention to detail. Its unique aging process, the Vinarium®, provided five years of maturation, resulting in exceptional depth and intensity.

This wine offers a complex bouquet of black fruits, gentle spices, and a delicate floral touch, bringing richness and elegance to your most indulgent holiday dishes.

• Perfect pairings: Roasted capon with chestnuts, stuffed turkey with dried fruits, root vegetable medley, or a platter of aged cheeses.
• Why this wine ? This wine elevates the flavors of hearty dishes and is sure to delight fans of exceptional reds.
   

The 2021 Crozes-Hermitage

For a lighter yet equally refined red, the 2021 Crozes-Hermitage is a fantastic choice. Made from 100% Syrah, it charms with fresh aromas of blackcurrant and violet, accented by a hint of spice.

Smooth and elegant, this versatile wine pairs beautifully with vegetarian dishes, white meats, or lightly spiced recipes.

• Perfect pairings: Sautéed porcini mushrooms, roasted leg of lamb, roast poultry, or vegetable gratin.
• Why this wine? Its balance and freshness make it an ideal match for a wide variety of dishes and palates.

 

 

3. Perfect wine gifts for the holidays

A fine bottle of wine makes the perfect Christmas gift—it’s thoughtful, elegant, and always appreciated. Xavier Vignon’s cuvées are ideal for the occasion, whether you’re choosing for a seasoned wine connoisseur or someone discovering the pleasures of exceptional wines.
 

The Cuvée Anonyme - a White Châteauneuf-du-Pape

In an appellation dominated by reds, this white is a refreshing surprise. A blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Clairette, and Picpoul, it combines freshness, aromatic complexity, and a refined mineral finish.

• Who is it for? Perfect for those who appreciate elegant, sophisticated wines or enjoy subtle pairings with fish and cheeses.
• Added bonus: With a potential to age gracefully until 2027, it’s an excellent choice for the holidays or for adding to your own cellar.
   

Immersion – a 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Make an impression with Immersion, a truly unique Châteauneuf-du-Pape aged 30 meters underwater off the coast of Brest. This one-of-a-kind process, with constant temperatures of 13°C and a pressure of 4 bars, enhanced the wine’s finesse and complexity, resulting in an extraordinary tasting experience.

A blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah, this cuvée reveals deep aromas of black fruits, garrigue, and spices, supported by a silky structure and impressive length on the palate.

• Who is it for? Perfect for those looking to gift an exceptional wine that will impress both grand cru enthusiasts and lovers of innovation.
• Added bonus: Each bottle tells a unique story of its underwater aging, making it a true collector’s item.

 

Celebrate the holidays with Xavier Vignon

Whether you’re creating a festive table or searching for a memorable gift, our cuvées bring a distinctive touch to your holiday celebrations. From Arcane Le Pape, an exceptional 2010 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, to Immersion, a bold and innovative wine, these selections are sure to elevate your festivities.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season filled with exceptional wines and meaningful moments.

Cheers!