Your Christmas party is right around the corner, and you’re in panic mode trying to find the perfect wine. Relax. Don’t make it more complicated than it has to be.

Some choose the basic wine staples, perhaps even offering both a red and a white like a Cabernet and a Chardonnay for a better chance at pleasing an entire gathering.

Why not try going local?

If you happen to be trekking through picturesque Western PA, why not try one of the great wineries? (I just happen to know of a beautiful winery B&B and events center in rural Shippenville.)

But seriously, folks, whether you choose wine from a mom-and-pop winery off the beaten path or a name brand off the shelf at your local store, here’s how to delight your guests with the best wines for Christmas parties.

Don’t limit yourself to just one selection.

I prefer vinotyping over wine pairings, guests of any number will be drawn toward a range of different wine tastes from super sweet to dry.

Here’s a valuable secret the wine czars don’t want you to know: Wine pairing is a myth (just ask my friend Tim Hanni, a wine and fine dining expert). Your guests who typically don’t prefer merlot aren’t going to begin liking merlot simply because it “pairs” best with the veal chop on their plate, as common “pairing” wisdom would have you believe.

Budget permitting, prepare sweet and dry options. That way, if the Cabernet is too stiff for some, they can politely request a refill of the sweeter Sangria.

Click here for some great options.

Visit Deer Creek Winery’s website for more information and upcoming events.

Submitted by Rhonda Brooks

Rhonda and her husband, Denis, own Deer Creek Winery, Inn B&B, and Event Center. They love wine and sharing their 100-acre farm in Northwest Pennsylvania with guests. You can find them around the winery most any time of day.

For more information on Deer Creek Winery, and The Inn, visit https://www.deercreekwine.com.