A far cry from typical, the Costaripa Molmenti Rosé ($43) is an exceptional example of the classic Italian ‘Chiaretto’ style Rosé and certainly worthy of gracing your table this holiday season. Native Italian varietals Gropello and Marzemino, grown on the sundrenched shores of Lake Garda, make up 65% of this wine with Sangiovese and Barbera grapes providing the rest. The wine is barrel fermented and aged at the winery for at least 5 months before release. This makes for a very substantial Rosé with a copper pink color and an ample, elegant nose recalling sweetly scented white flowers, berries and cherries, with subtle vanilla notes. The palate is well structured and very flavorful with fresh minerality, a hint of almonds, and a subtle but perceptible hint of tannin. For something delicious, and just a little different, with dinner this year look no further.

If it is ham rather than turkey on your table this year a lot of the classic holiday pairings; Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, etc. will work just fine but I suggest Champagne. All too often people think of Champagne simply as a starter or as something to drink with seafood, but it can also be a great match for a variety of main courses. Champagne works wonders with foods that are salty, mildly spicy, and slightly greasy three things that I always associate with a mouthwatering baked ham. A great choice would be the Moutard Grand Cuvée Brut. It’s a fantastic value at $45 and sure to please!

Alex Keevil,

Bin905 Distinctive Wines & Spirits

www.bin905.com

Let’s face it. It’s Christmas time!

What better way to kick off this holiday season than with Christmas in the Rockies hosted  in Banff.  On Saturday December 1, enjoy a variety of events catered to the young and young at heart.

Start your celebrations in the Cascade Plaza at Festive Fun with Santa –  a kid-friendly array of fun-filled activities, such as Christmas craft making, face painting and photos with Santa. Also enjoy the sweet songs of the Castle Carollers and wagon rides along Banff Avenue.

Watch as an ice sculptor turns blocks of ice into winter artwork. Try and take a guess of out which furry friends will be carved out of ice this year, and if you’re feeling inspired, check out the “little chippers” ice carving stations. Create your own ice sculpture to take home for the holidays or leave one behind at the courtyard for others to enjoy!

For those who are looking to exercise their way into the holiday spirit, warm up with “Elfercise”, led by Santas very own dancing elf. Or find warm drinks, a delicious meal, and unique gifts in one of the great establishments in the courtyard!

Topping the festivities off,  watch the magic and glow of the Santa Claus Parade of Lights amidst the excited spectators on Banff Avenue or over a glass of hot chocolate from the comfort of a street-front restaurant.

Relax after a long day of events in front of a fire and remember that “T’is the season to drink and be merry.”  Hot chocolate of course!

Be sure to visit www.banfflakelouise.com to learn more about all the exciting events happening this year!