Step into Woodstock Beverage and you will find a wine lover’s paradise, especially this holiday season. Owner Clay Hillgrove has taken everything up a notch, with a selection of wines for the simplest tastes of wine newbies to the discerning palates of connoisseurs.

This transformation has been welcomed by residents, second homeowners, and tourists alike. “Our clients say the selection rivals wine shops in metropolitan areas,” says Clay. “I feel I have transformed what was once a discount wine and state liquor store into a wine shop with a state liquor store attached to us. I am so thrilled to bring things in that our discerning clientele can appreciate.”

This change was brought about because of Clay’s own experience as a wine professional. He was the wine buyer at the Quechee Club for years. He started the first private wine club in the state while there. Members had their own lockers. The selection at Woodstock Beverage is geared to clients who know about quality wine or who want the personal service and exceptional knowledge that a small wine shop offers.

Winter weather and the holidays mean more cozy meals and comfort food. Even if the meal is a simple family occasion, there is still a reason to enjoy time together and make happy memories while sharing a bottle of special wine that complements what is served.

Sparkling Wine

It is always festive, even on a weekday, to open some bubbly to start the evening. Clay suggests La Marca Prosecco ($15.99) for an affordable option. “Not sweet, with a beautiful Tiffany blue and silver label package.”

Want to be just a bit more extravagant? Clay suggests NV Andre Clouet Brut-Champagne ($50), “a beautiful package and crisp juice.”

Whites

 Gunther Steinmetz Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Kabinett ($16) is dry, clean-cutting, and would pair well with savory roasted chicken or a light, creamy pasta.

Domaine Serge Laporte Sancerre ($27), a sauvignon blanc with a crisp acidity but impressive body, pairs well with baked fish with lemon cream sauce or chicken piccata.

Mer Soleil Chardonnay ($19.99), one of the Caymus family’s wines with enticing scents and flavors of Meyer lemon zest, honeysuckle, and apricot, pairs well with seafood and chicken or as an aperitif with a charcuterie plate.

Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay ($36) will appeal to those who prefer a smokey, oaky white with more creaminess and body.

Reds

For heartier fare like roast pork, braised meats, and lamb, a go-to for Clay is Famille Perin Coudoulet de Beaucastel ($26.99). “The family of wines that made me fall in love with wine! Food-friendly, classic, and an excellent value for the quality.”

If it's chili night, open a bottle of Chateau Michel de Vert Bordeaux ($16.99), “a Merlot-forward St. Emilion that’s an easy drinker,” says Clay.

Pizza tonight? Clay suggests Castello di Bossi chianti ($18.99) for a classic Italian wine experience that is versatile and food-friendly.

Heartier fare like osso buco or pasta Bolognese on the menu? Try Tornatore Etna Rosso ($25.99). “Who doesn’t find anything with a volcano history cool?” (The company lies in the northern side of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.)

If you are feeling indulgent and want more elegance and body, Clay suggests Sesti Brunello di Montalcino ($100), “classic, deep, rich, and wonderful.”

Even a simple dish like shepherd’s pie or a traditional Quebecoise pork pie will be enhanced by the beautiful Syrah from K Vintners Washington ($60).

Roast beef or even a burger can be paired with a Cabernet Sauvignon for Quilt Napa ($33), “the clone of Caymus, made by the son and less than half the price.”

From simple fare or takeout to a multicourse family dinner, a quality wine from Woodstock Beverage will make the meal a special occasion to remember this holiday season.

 

Woodstock Beverage

512 East Woodstock Road

Woodstock, VT

(802) 457-1326

woodstockbeverage.com