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The Holiday Season is upon us again!

As in years past, we have assembled a fantastic series of GiftGuides full of interesting ideas for our RainyDayMagazine readers. Our Guides include items we have reviewed during the year, new ones we haven’t posted yet, and a few from years past.

The one thing that stays the same year after year is the selection criteria: all of the recommendations are things we have actually touched and things we would actually want.

Happy Responsibly-Imbibed Holidays!

Got “Proof?”

Nothing says “Happy Holidays” like giving and getting fine wines and spirits. The selection here was put together by thirty of our most trusted “advisors.” Enjoy them responsibly 🙂

Wild Spirits

Wild Turkey Bourbon

Originally crafted by Kentucky Bourbon Hall-of-Famer Eddie Russell as “Wild Turkey 81”, Wild Turkey Bourbon is aged in American White Oak barrels with the deepest, No. 4 “alligator” char. With notes of sweet vanilla, pear, and hints of spice, this bourbon finishes with a flavor that is full and rich, whether enjoyed straight or with a mixer.

Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Aromas of roasted nuts, nougat, and mild oak precede a palate that is honeyed and rich in texture. The finish brings forth the malt component, allowing a keen graininess to move to the forefront. Drink neat, or on the rocks. Also, adding a reasonable amount of water to the whiskey is an option, as it will allow the nuances and complexity of the whiskey to more clearly present themselves.

Putnam New England Rye Whiskey

This earthy Rye leaves nothing to be desired. The nose is filled with black pepper, sea salt, and oak. Baked apple, spiced pear and vanilla back the palate. A sharper, earthy finish that you can only get from Rye wraps the whole experience up for an unforgettable silky, smooth whiskey. Served neat, on the rocks or in any cocktail.

Fine Wines

Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay 2013

From cool American Canyon and Carneros vineyards in the southern tip of Napa Valley, this classically styled wine that doesn’t undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its natural acidity. Fermented and aged 10 months in French oak.

Château de Pitray Premier Vin 2015

From a respected, family-owned property making good value wines, including this medium-bodied Merlot and Cab Franc blend. Fragrant and full in the mouth, showing dabs of pepper spice, dried herbs, with dark plum and cherry, finishing firm and long. This ripe, fruity wine has soft tannins and a generous, warm character that makes it already drinkable. Better, however, to wait until its full potential is realized, from 2019. 

Elegant Champagne

Beaumont des Crayeres Grand Prestige

In 1955, a group of wine growers from the rolling countryside around Epernay founded Beaumont des Crayères Champagne in Mardeuil. With 85 hectares currently under vine in the very heart of Champagne, the house now markets approximately 600,000 bottles across the 5 continents.

This Grand Prestige is pale yellow robe with glints of gold, very fine and lively bubbles. Elegant nose, with a fruity complex of cherry, peach, honey, biscuit and spices. Fresh and well balanced palate, with grapefruit and cherry notes. Long and elegant finish.