Port makes a great gift. Vintage ports are bottled early and benefit greatly from long aging; they often reach their best only after several decades. Maturing nicely, Warre's 1985 Vintage Port ($105) is ready now, but can be held for a while. A younger vintage like Quinta do Vesuvio 1994 ($137) needs more time, but makes a choice gift for someone with a wine collection.
For those who fall into the camp of "ready to drink" wine lover, tawny port provides immediate gratification. It's even better when served with nuts and Stilton cheese. Older tawnies develop exceptional complexity. Dow's 20-Year-Old ($56) and Fonseca 40-Year-Old ($105/ 375 mL) are perfect examples of their class and age. Whatever the bottle, if it's a memorable one, you can bet that your chances of being invited to share it will be excellent.
... Or opt for the less expensive route
If you're planning a party for tens or hundreds of thirsty holiday visitors, a delicious, inexpensive red wine may be just the ticket. FuZion, which sells for less than $8, is a soft, luscious blend of shiraz and Malbec from Argentina. While it should keep the gang in the red, you'll stay in the black!
(PRICES VARY IN LOCAL MARKETS. ALL PRICES ARE FOR 750 ML BOTTLES, EXCEPT WHERE SPECIFIED.)
Read more in Food & Entertaining and Wine & Spirits
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