Overview
- As the holidays approach, knowing the top wine trends to watch heading into the holiday season ensures a memorable celebration.
- From low-alcohol and sustainable wines to classics like Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Merlot, Ralph’s Wines & Spirits offers curated selections to suit every palate, occasion, and festive table.
As the holiday season approaches, celebrations, family gatherings, and well-chosen wines become the focus. This year, more people are exploring varieties they once overlooked, and new wine categories are steadily rising in popularity.
At Ralph’s Wines & Spirits, we curate a holiday-ready selection that helps you pour with confidence and elevate every Christmas and New Year’s celebration. Whether you're a curious beginner or an experienced drinker looking for a new find, knowing the top wine trends to watch heading into the holiday season will help you pick a bottle that everyone will love.
Why Manila’s Holiday Wine Season Is Unique
The Filipino holiday season begins as early as September, creating months of celebrations marked by reunions, corporate events, and gift-giving. Wine naturally becomes a preferred choice because it conveys luxury and appreciation.
This environment produces two main types of buyers: those who want dependable, easy-drinking bottles and those who look for rare or trend-driven selections.
The season often opens with Ralph’s Wines & Spirits through the Grand Wine Experience, one of Southeast Asia’s leading wine events. This year’s “Time Travel” theme highlighted how every vintage tells a story of its place and craftsmanship.
The event sets the tone for the season. It inspires customers to explore more sparkling wines, artisanal labels, and unique holiday picks, reflecting the excitement shared during the Grand Wine Experience.
What’s Driving Wine Demand This Holiday Season
Shifts in consumer priorities are shaping today’s wine trends. Health-conscious choices, sustainability, and distinctive flavors are driving demand. Wines that align with different diets, tastes, and values are growing rapidly, making this holiday season’s selection more diverse and exciting than ever.
Low/No-Alcohol Wines
More people are moderating their alcohol intake but still want to enjoy the celebration. Modern winemakers now craft high-quality Lo/No wines that are complex and authentic. These selections let hosts cater to every guest. For a fruity, lighter option, the Gossips Sweet Lips Moscato is a juicy, low-alcohol favorite that never fails to delight.
The Resurgence Of Chenin Blanc & Merlot
While Chardonnay and Cabernet remain favorites, wine enthusiasts are rediscovering classic varieties. Chenin Blanc shines with vibrant acidity and a food-friendly profile, and Merlot is enjoying a revival as a structured, nuanced red.
Both are ideal for holiday meals: Chenin Blanc pairs with creamy pastas, while Merlot complements roasted meats and winter vegetables. For a smooth, fruit-forward red, the Montes Classic Series Merlot is a dependable choice.
Expansion Of Sustainable Wines
Modern wine drinkers are increasingly focused on both quality and provenance, driving growth in sustainable, organic, and biodynamic wines. These practices produce wines that are pure, expressive, and environmentally responsible.
Choosing a sustainable wine supports ethical winemaking and makes a thoughtful gift. Ralph’s offers a curated selection, including the Rivetto Barolo, a premium choice from a winery renowned for its biodynamic commitment.
Growing Attention To English Sparkling
While French Champagne remains a holiday classic, English Sparkling Wine is earning acclaim. Advances in winemaking and favorable weather in Southern England are producing exceptional bubbles from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
With crisp, complex flavors and elegant effervescence, these wines are a modern alternative for holiday toasts, offering both sophistication and a nod to current wine trends.
Interest In Orange Wines
For adventurous wine lovers, orange wines offer a unique experience. Made by leaving white grape juice in contact with the skins, they develop an amber hue, rich nutty flavors, and a distinctive texture.
This complexity pairs well with spiced dishes and intricate vegetable sides, making orange wines a conversation-worthy choice. At Ralph’s, the Lumiere Prestige Class Orange is a standout selection for those eager to try something different.
Classic Holiday Favorites
While new trends are exciting, the holidays are ideal for trusted wine classics. These reliable, delicious wines pair perfectly with the rich, diverse dishes of a Filipino festive table, making them a safe and satisfying choice every season.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Bold and structured, Cabernet Sauvignon is perfect for hearty mains like roasted beef or lamb. Its rich fruit and subtle tannins make it a go-to red for larger gatherings.
Try the Santa Luz Cabernet Sauvignon — it’s juicy, velvety, and great paired with strong cheeses or a roast.
Pinot Noir
Softer and more delicate, Pinot Noir is ideal for lighter meats, like turkey or chicken, and dishes that benefit from an elegant, fruity red.
Consider the Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2020 — it offers silky texture, dark cherry and bramble fruit, and fine acidity.
Riesling
Known for its crisp acidity and subtle sweetness, Riesling pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, glazed ham, or creamy sides.
Try the Wente Riverbank Riesling 2022, which delivers bright citrus, green apple notes, and a refreshing finish — perfect for holiday entertaining.
Sauvignon Blanc
Crisp, zesty, and aromatic, Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect choice for appetizers, seafood, or vegetable‑forward dishes.
Go for the Saint Clair Origin Sauvignon Blanc 2022, which brings tropical fruit, citrus, and a clean, saline finish that's perfect with shellfish or salad.
Key Takeaway
As the holidays approach, knowing the top wine trends to watch heading into the holiday season helps you select wines that delight every guest. From low-alcohol and sustainable wines to classics like Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling, there is something for every palate.
Ralph’s Wines & Spirits can guide your holiday lineup. Explore our curated selection of reds, whites, and sparkling wines, or contact us for personalized recommendations to match your table and festive spirit.
