When trying to come up with a way to promote the fabulous, unique, and affordable wines in our great little wine shop, we thought we may as well stand back and let owner Mike do what he does best – picking out great wines.

Here are Mike’s pick’s for holiday wines to gift and serve (and drink, of course!) along with Mike’s comments for why he chose them:

2013 Vina Cobos Bramare Rebon Vineyard Malbec, La Consulta, Argentina

“If you’ve never tasted a super premium Paul Hobbs designed Malbec, now’s your chance!” – Mike

On the nose: Dry soil, dark fruits, and black currants

On the palate: medium tannins and a bright finish

Notes are for the 2012

2013 Alpha Omega II Proprietary Red, Napa Valley

“An affordable entry into the Alpha Omega world.” -Mike

On the nose: Paprike, thyme, choclate, curry, macerated strawberry, and hibiscus

On the palate: cherry, currant, cassis, and blackberries come in velvety soft and evolve into lingering blue fruit jam

2014 Neyers Left Bank Red, Napa Valley

“Wine Spectator just gave this 92 points. An excellent red blend out of Napa.” -Mike

On the palate: zesty berry, peppery cola, cherry, touches of graphite

2013 Emeritus Hallberg Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

“An excellent example of a Russian River Pinot Noir.” -Mike

On the palate: Cool fruit, oak spice, forest floor

2013 EnRoute Winery Les Brumaire Chardonnay, Russian River Valley

“Another great example of a Russian River Chardonnay” -Mike

On the nose: citrus zest, jasmine, toasted oak, peach blossom, wet stone.

On the palate: citrus and tropical, oily midpalate, mouthwatering finish

2013 Nicora GSM, Paso Robles

“All we can say about this sspectacular Paso Robles wine is WOW!!” -Mike

On the nose: Dark berries, rose petals, and hints of caramel and oak.

On the palate: Fresh red fruit, black pepper, tar, slightly sour blueberry, satisfyingly straighforward, lingering dark fruit and caramel.