The holidays are in full swing with New Year’s Eve almost here, and this time of year many of us tend to over indulge with the parties, food and alcohol. Aside from being a Wine Consultant, I also teach and practice yoga, so I try to maintain a healthy lifestyle which means wine in moderation. The holidays are exactly the time of year people need to up their game whether is it yoga, the gym, running, biking, etc… But unfortunately it is actually the time that many people slack off. So my blog today offers you 3 wines to indulge in “price wise,” but not to over indulge in drinking wise!”

To some people, splurging on a $20 bottle of wine is a big deal. I know it is to me. To those of us, I suggest Antucura Calcura 2008 Vista Flores Meritage from Argentina. This blend of 50% Cab, 30% Merlot and 20% Malbec is made up of a selection of only the best grapes. An extended maceration for up to 30 days ensures soft tannins and elegance. The color is intense and brilliant ruby red. The nose is highly expressive with ripe plums, cherries, and strawberries with hints of nuts and spice. The entry is sweet with good concentration and volume with a long finish. A perfect holiday red!

Maybe a $30 bottle of wine is your indulgence? How about trying La Marescialla, Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOC 2007?  This 100% Barbera is aged in French Barrique for one year then an additional one year in the bottle. It is deep red in color with violet nuances. This wine has an intense aroma of matured berries and delicate flowers of violet and mint. The taste is balanced, warm and silky with notes of berry jam and spices, maybe even reminiscent of chocolate covered cherries… a truly elegant crowd pleaser.

If your budget allows a $70 dollar wine, your choice has to be Oakville East Exposure Cab 2009 from Napa, CA. From one of the world’s most legendary grape growing regions, comes this 92 rated wine. Luscious ruby in color with blueberry, licorice, lavender and tobacco on the nose. There is some soft red fruit on the entry, then the darker fruit and floral flavors hit mid to back palate. This Cab is bright and nicely concentrated with a velvet finish and lingering smokiness. A true winner for all red wine lovers.

Why not indulge in a beautiful wine that fits your budget during this last week of the holiday season? Have a couple glasses of an amazing wine instead of 6 glasses of mediocre. Then you can get up and hit the gym or yoga studio the next morning. Enjoy!

Bill Knowles, Wine Consultant at ABC Fine Wine & Spirits in Boca Raton. Follow me on Twitter @abcwinebillk.