Celebrate the Holidays with Far Niente Wines
As the holiday season approaches, we’re often swept up in the hustle and bustle – shopping for gifts, hosting family gatherings, and planning extravagant meals. In the midst of it all, I’d like to encourage you to take a moment for yourself, to relax and enjoy the simple pleasure of a glass of truly exceptional wine. That’s why this season, I’m excited to recommend selections from one of my favorite wine labels, Far Niente.
Founded in Napa Valley in 1885, Far Niente has a storied history that reflects a deep respect for the craft of winemaking. After a period of dormancy during Prohibition, the estate was lovingly restored by Gil Nickel in 1979, becoming one of the great estates in Napa’s modern era. Far Niente’s philosophy is rooted in balance and precision, producing wines of remarkable elegance and structure. But it’s also about something deeper – the Italian phrase “dolce far niente,” or “the sweetness of doing nothing,” which perfectly captures the pleasure of pausing during the busy holiday season to savor a moment.
Winemaker Nicole Marchesi, the first female head winemaker in Far Niente’s history, oversees the meticulous process behind their iconic wines. With her expertise and attention to detail, Nicole crafts wines that are celebrated for their consistency and distinctive character year after year.
At Fred’s Avalon Liquor Store, we’re proud to offer a selection of Far Niente wines and its sister labels – each bottle representing the culmination of decades of craftsmanship and passion. Here are some standouts to elevate your holiday celebrations or to give as a thoughtful present.
Far Niente Chardonnay 2022: This estate Chardonnay is a hallmark of Far Niente’s winemaking style. Offering layers of tropical fruit, melon, and citrus, it has a creamy, balanced texture with subtle hints of toasted oak and vanilla. Pair it with roasted turkey, lobster bisque, or creamy mashed potatoes for a perfect holiday meal.
Post & Beam Chardonnay 2022: Focused on producing approachable wines without sacrificing quality, Post & Beam’s Chardonnay is refreshing and elegant. With notes of green apple, pear, and a hint of citrus, this wine is versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch or gifting it to a Chardonnay lover.
EnRoute Chardonnay 2021: From the Russian River Valley, EnRoute crafts a lively and expressive Chardonnay. This wine showcases vibrant flavors of Meyer lemon, peach, and a touch of minerality, balanced with a creamy finish. It’s an excellent choice for seafood dishes, like seared scallops or crab cakes, making it a standout for any festive gathering.
Far Niente Dolce: Known as the “liquid gold of Napa Valley,” Dolce is Far Niente’s renowned late-harvest blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Rich with flavors of apricot, honey, and caramel, this dessert wine is ideal for pairing with a cheese platter or fruit tart. It’s a showstopper at the end of a holiday meal or a thoughtful gift for someone special.
Far Niente Winery
EnRoute Pinot Noir 2022: Another gem from the Far Niente family, EnRoute Pinot Noir hails from the Russian River Valley and offers flavors of ripe cherry, raspberry, and a touch of spice. With its silky texture and elegant finish, it pairs beautifully with holiday dishes like roast duck or mushroom risotto.
Bella Union Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: Bella Union specializes in bold Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons, and this 2021 vintage is no exception. With notes of black currant, plum, and vanilla, it’s rich and expressive, perfect for pairing with braised short ribs, lamb, or even a decadent chocolate dessert.
Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: Far Niente’s flagship Cabernet Sauvignon is an iconic expression of Napa Valley. Complex and layered, it features flavors of black cherry, currant, and mocha, with a velvety finish. This wine is a wonderful accompaniment to beef Wellington or prime rib and makes a stunning gift for any wine connoisseur.
Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon 2022: This approachable Cabernet Sauvignon delivers bright notes of blackberry, cassis, and a hint of mocha. It’s a fantastic choice for a wide range of holiday dishes, from roasted meats to hearty stews. Its smooth, easy-drinking style makes it a hit whether you’re gifting it or serving it at a holiday party.
Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon State Ranch 2021: Nickel & Nickel produces single-vineyard wines that highlight the unique characteristics of each site. The State Ranch Cabernet showcases lush dark fruit, notes of chocolate, and earthy undertones, with an elegant structure. It’s a wine that will elevate any special occasion meal or make a luxurious holiday gift.
Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon Fog Break 2021: Sourced from the Fog Break Vineyard, this Cabernet is a perfect example of Nickel & Nickel’s craftsmanship. It offers a beautiful balance of dark fruit, spice, and rich tannins, with a long, smooth finish. Ideal for pairing with grilled steaks or roasted lamb, this is a wine that will impress at any holiday gathering.
Far Niente and its family of wines represent the very best of Napa Valley’s winemaking traditions, combining innovation and reverence for the past. Whether you’re indulging in these wines for a special holiday meal or gifting them to someone dear, they offer a moment to slow down and savor the sweetness of the season.
At Fred’s Avalon Liquor Store, we believe that wine is about more than just what’s in the bottle – it’s about the stories behind it and the shared experiences around it. So this holiday season, remember to take a breath, relax, and enjoy a moment of dolce far niente with a glass of something truly exceptional.
Please drink responsibly.
