Like a kid at Christmas, I couldn’t wait to visit Guglielmo Winery’s 28th annual Holiday Faire which runs for three weeks every December. A dizzying array of wine and holiday themed gift items is paired with a special section devoted to wine and food tasting. Platters of prosciutto, salami, pate and a variety cheeses lined long tables. A chafing dish contained warmed bagna cauda, an Italian dipping sauce with intense flavors of garlic and anchovy.
This year the tasting menu consists of five wines; a white, two reds and a sparkling. Plus a sampling of hot mulled wine to chase away the wintry chill.
Their easy-drinking chardonnay is a good prelude to the serious reds. With dark red fruits and a hint of tobacco, the cabernet has a slightly peppery finish. Their gold-medal petite sirah, a rich wine tasting of ripe plum, leather and with a soft finish, will pair perfectly with the bold, roasted meats of the holidays. I really enjoy their festive California sparkling wine with a hint of sweetness.
Although not on the event’s tasting list, my new, all-time favorite wine is their newly released 2015 Private Reserve Dolcetto. The wine opens with tantalizing aromas of raspberry, vanilla and cedar. Juicy cranberries abound in this lively, well-balanced wine. The rich fruit and soft spices will compliment a variety of dishes, especially the ones at my home.
Guglielmo Winery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1480 E Main Ave, Morgan Hill. Holiday tasting tickets are $10.
