Christmas California Reds

Three Californian wines for Christmas

"Big and Bold" pretty much sums up California - or so I used to think. There will always be plenty of New World fruit on show, but there is also freshness, balance and nuance if the wine comes from a slightly cooler part of the state.

I was sufficiently impressed by the cool-climate white wines from these three Gallo-owed vineyards to be intrigued about the reds.

With a New World combination of fruit and sophistication, Gallo suggest these as classy Christmas crowd-pleasers:

Edna Valley Pinot Noir 2015, Central Coast (Majestic, £15.99) for guests with more refined tastes as well as those who prefer something lighter. Match with goose or turkey or any Christmas centre-piece

Frei Brothers Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Alexander Valley (Waitrose, £17.99) ideal with rich meat dishes and easy to drink, making it a perfect accompaniment to Boxing Day casseroles

MacMurray Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir 2015, Russian River Valley ( Great Western Wine, £27.50) from one of the world's most sought-after Pinot Noir regions, this makes a perfect Christmas gift