Festive season and cold weather call for 'mouthfilling' red wines

The holidays are packed with social obligations and sharing delicious dinners with family and friends, and On The Coast Master of Wine Barbara Philip says those occasions call for red wine.

She says there are lots of red wine options that are rich and luxurious but don't cost a lot. They are satisfying to drink on a chilly night and make thoughtful gifts.

"It's the time for sharing delicious bottles of wine with friends and family and the weather calls for mouthfilling reds," she told On The Coast host Stephen Quinn.

Here are her picks for red wines that fit the festive bill.

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Time Estate Winery. Syrah. Okanagan Valley. 2013. $35.00

"Rich and spicy Syrah from Okanagan icon Harry McWatters. This was a platinum award winner at the 2016 British Columbia Wine Awards but there is still a little bit left in the province if you hurry."

Wynns "Black Label" Cabernet Sauvignon. Coonawarra. Australia. 2013. $24.99

"The quality of this Cabernet, which has been produced since 1954, is not exactly a secret, but I am just blown away by its balance, intensity, complexity and value each time I try it."

Pierre Amadieu. Gigondas. Rhne Valley. France. 2013. $36.99

"The Grenache and Syrah grapes used to make this outstanding wine are more than 50 years old and bring a minerality that balances the ripe fruit and spice. There are notes of raspberry preserves, white pepper, anise and dark plum."

Marabino Nero d'Avola. Noto. Sicily. Italy 2013. $24.99

"Noto is the traditional area for Sicily's signature grape, Nero d'Avola. Expect rich plummy fruit and earth with purple flower notes to balance. It would be a beautiful match with warming stew or aged cheese."

With files from CBC Radio One's On The Coast