Zig's 2012 Holiday Wine Picks:

Big thanks to our Holiday Wine Picks sponsor:

16 Judges tasted through 198 wines to determine what wine is the best value Sparkling, White and Red wine under $15- as well as what is the best high end Sparkling, White and Red wine over $30. I've chosen one word from select panel members to describe each wine profile.

Top Wines Under $15

Sparkling

Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut- $8.99
Crisp, Well Balanced, Citrus, Bright, Apple, Spice

White Wine

2011 Cycles Gladiator, Pinot Grigio, CA - $8.-
Fun, Inviting, Banana, Good Structure, Citrusy, Tasty

Red Wine

2011 Cline, Zinfandel, CA $12.99
Cherry, Toasty Oak, Camphor, Cassis, Spice, Real Nice

Top Wines over $30

Sparkling

2004 Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvee, Sonoma Carneros $32-
Lemon, Creamy, Apple, Yeasty, Cocoa Bean, Elegant, Nutty

White Wine

2010 Red Car Wine Company, Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast $38-
Impressive, Seductive, Tastes like a Grand Cru, Sexy, Wow, Complex, Racy

Red Wine

2009 La Crema, Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $50-
Red Cherry, Beautifully Balanced, Black Tea, Inviting, Earthy, Complex, Epic