Wine All You Want: Red Wines for the Season

I find that during the holiday season, my cravings for merlot, Chianti and cabernet sauvignon are at an all-time high. There is something about winter that brings out the red wine connoisseur in all of us.

So I recently went on a search for the best reds out there, and learned that Longs Drugs carries some winners, as well as Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquor — and even Walmart. For anyone wishing to indulge in fruity to full-bodied wine and everything in between, here are some options.

1. Ecco Domani Merlot

This is my favorite on the list because of its well-rounded taste. Every sip is as smooth as the one before, which can lead you to finishing a bottle on your own. It’s accented with notes of spiced cherry. The best part is that a bottle costs only $9.

2. Francis Coppola Merlot

I’ve had a bottle of this merlot sitting in my room for quite some time — it was a gift from my connoisseur father — and finally finding a reason to open it was a happy day. Plus, merlot is my favorite grape. I found that Francis Coppola’s Merlot was drier than Ecco Domani’s, yet the spiced aftermath was the same. This merlot is recommended to anyone who enjoys a more intense flavor.

3. BanfiRosa Regale

To be honest, I purchased this bottle for its design. I wasn’t expecting much flavor-wise, because I don’t typically find sparkling, sweet wine tasty. But I was surprised to enjoy it. The $20 is worth it for the abundance of fruit flavors, from strawberry to raspberry — and a hint of rose. Banfi Rosa Regale is a nice touch for those who don’t like red wine, because its sweetness resembles white.

4. Windsor Zinfandel

Zinfandel always is fa-vored in my home because of how fancy it sounds. Plus, it pairs well with spicy food, which is why having a bottle on hand always is imperative. I enjoy this Zinfandel because it isn’t too spicy, and while it is on the drier side, each sip goes down smoothly. If you prefer a more bold, plum-tasting wine, this is for you.

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