The holidays are a time for connection — for laughter that lingers late into the night, for candlelit dinners, and for those quiet, golden moments that remind us of what really matters.
And if there’s one thing that can elevate every moment of the festive season, it’s a perfectly poured glass of wine.
At Gosling’s Bermuda, wine manager Allison Estis spends her days curating bottles that tell stories of vineyards, vintages and the people who craft them. But as the holidays approach, her focus shifts from pairing notes to emotional notes: what to pour when the family gathers, what to gift the friend who has everything, and what to sip when the party winds down and the night softens.
We caught up with Allison to talk about why wine is the ultimate connector, her go-to bottles for every festive moment, and how to toast the season island-style.
What makes wine such an essential part of the festive season for you?
For me, wine is the ultimate connector. It has this beautiful way of bringing people together, whether it’s a toast that marks the start of dinner or a glass shared during quiet conversation. Each bottle tells a story, and during the holidays, those stories intertwine with laughter, nostalgia and new memories. Wine makes every moment just a bit more intentional. It slows us down, invites us to savour, and reminds us to celebrate not just the season, but each other.
Which wines pair best with those relaxed, social moments when entertaining friends or family gatherings?
I always go for wines that are vibrant, approachable and easy to enjoy without needing a full meal. A chilled Sancerre is perfect to start, while a soft, fruit-driven Pinot Noir keeps things flowing. For something a bit festive, I love opening a bottle of Champagne Rosé. It instantly brightens the mood and feels celebratory without trying too hard. The best wines for entertaining are the ones that spark conversation and never stay in the glass for long!
For the big family dinner — whether it’s turkey, lamb or seafood — which bottles would complement the meal?
The Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG is a timeless choice for a festive feast. Its elegance, depth, and earthy undertones pair wonderfully with roasted meats and hearty holiday dishes, while the fine tannins and bright acidity keep it fresh alongside more delicate flavours. It has that perfect Italian warmth — comforting, layered and endlessly versatile.
What about quieter moments? Which wine is ideal for a cozy night in with a movie?
That’s when I reach for Château Mont-Redon Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It’s a wine with soul — rich, velvety and full of spice and dark fruit. There’s something comforting about the way it unfolds with each sip, perfect for those peaceful evenings when you want to slow down and savour something truly special. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket by the fire, but in liquid form.
How might we impress our guests or give a standout wine gift without overspending?
Duckhorn Decoy Blue Label AV Cabernet Sauvignon is a fantastic option. It delivers the structure and depth you’d expect from a luxury Napa Cab, but at a more approachable price point. It’s bold yet refined, making it a guaranteed hit for both seasoned collectors and casual wine lovers. A sure way to impress without overindulging.
We’re in Bermuda, where it’s a bit warmer than most holiday climates. Do you think that changes our wine choices at this time of year?
Definitely. In Bermuda, our holiday celebrations often spill outdoors — think Christmas lunches on the patio or New Year’s Eve under the stars. That means lighter, fresher styles tend to shine. Chilled whites, elegant reds and, of course, sparkling wines are a staple here. We love wines that feel festive but still suit the island’s climate — bright, balanced and refreshing even in December.
If you were curating the perfect Bermuda Christmas dinner wine list, which three bottles would make the cut?
I’d start with Veuve Clicquot Rosé Champagne for the welcome toast — it’s festive and elegant, setting the tone for the evening. With the main course, Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva brings that savoury, old-world charm. And to finish, Sonoma-Cutrer Russian River Ranches Chardonnay pairs beautifully with anything from creamy side dishes to buttery desserts. Together, they tell a global story with a distinctly Bermudian warmth.
Which trends or standout bottles are you most excited about this holiday season at Gosling’s?
There’s a real shift toward wines with a sense of place — bottles that reflect the story of where they come from. I’m excited about the rise of South African producers, which combine world-class quality with incredible heritage. There’s also growing interest in premium Chardonnays and Burgundian reds — people are exploring beyond the classics but still want that French finesse. And of course, Champagne remains timeless — Veuve Clicquot continues to be our holiday icon, and it never fails to make the season sparkle.
Whether you’re toasting with bubbles, pouring a velvety red or enjoying a crisp white in the sunshine, Gosling’s collection has something for every moment. As Allison reminds us, it’s not just about the wine itself, it’s about the joy, intention and connection that come with every sip.
So, this holiday season, pour something beautiful, raise a glass to good company and let the story unfold — one sip at a time.
