As sure as the Grinch stole Christmas, it’s a given that we’ll all receive a bottle of wine over the holiday season.

In my house, I pick the wines that go with Xmas dinner so anything that shows up at the door goes into the wine rack for future enjoyment.

Of course, considering how my family can plow through my wine selection, it would be nice if more of the freebies came with a roast turkey match in mind.

For reds, bring a plump New World pinot noir from California or Canada, a chocolaty old vines zinfandel (also from Cali.) or, for a slightly unconventional Old World partner, a Crianza or Reserva from Spain’s Rioja region.  

On the white side, think a not so oaky chardonnay from Australia or Chile, a German riesling or a rich, multi-blend like the ripe, refreshing cornucopia of grape flavours (five in all) that is California’s Caymus 2009 Conundrum ($23.95 – $29.99). Happy holidays!

Prices reflect the range across Canada. Some products may not be available in all provinces.