The Case for Damp January
January brings resolutions that lean toward abstinence, such as dry January, but there’s a better path. Instead of giving wine up entirely, why not enjoy a few less, but higher quality bottles more mindfully?
Mindful wine enjoyment invites you to notice the details in the moment: the aroma of an Ontario Chardonnay replete with creamy lemon, the full bodied texture of a Bordeaux blend, or the beautiful complexity of an Ontario Pinot Noir. Wine and food pairings will make that instant even better. When you pause and pay attention, even a single glass becomes a deeper experience.
This year, think of wine not as something to restrict, but as something to appreciate. Choose quality over quantity, explore global classics and local discoveries, and let each bottle offer a moment of connection to places, people, and the present moment.
We have reviewed a few excellent quality bottles to get you started on that path. Cheers and all the best for 2026!
Ratings: 5 stars: Outstanding; 4 stars: Very good; 3 stars: Good; 2 stars: Moderately good; 1 star: Not very good, but not bad; No stars: Poor.
Le Clos Jordanne Claystone Terrace Chardonnay 2021 ★★★★ $42.00 (Winery, Online)
Winemaker Thomas Bachelder nods to white Burgundy (at a far friendlier price) with this beautifully crafted Chardonnay. It’s rich and full-bodied, unfolding layers of lemon, yellow apple, and pineapple alongside warm notes of nutmeg, hazelnut, and vanilla. A touch of minerality and creamy texture from lees aging add both depth and elegance. The finish lingers long after each sip. Enjoy it with creamy Brie, chicken in a tarragon cream sauce, or set a bottle aside for your next turkey dinner with buttery stuffing.
Le Clos Jordanne Jordan Village Pinot Noir 2022 ★★★★ $29.95 (Vintages, Winery, Online)
Here’s a great value Pinot and its Silver Medal for the 2021 vintage at the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2024 underscores the quality in the glass. Expect dark cherry, cranberry, and red currant with subtle earthy sous-bois, and refined oak spice. Silky, balanced, and quietly elegant, it finishes with a gentle mineral lift. A natural match for mushroom dishes of all kinds or grilled lamb chops with an herb crust.
Ricasoli Brolio Riserva Chianti Classico 2021 ★★★★+ $29.95 (Vintages)
This is a wonderfully complex red, offering layers of red and black cherry, a touch of berry fruit, rosemary, earth, leather, and forest floor, all accented by a hint of vanilla and moderate tannins. As you’d expect from top-notch Chianti, it shines with hearty dishes like a classic Florentine steak, pasta with a rich meaty ragù, or a comforting mushroom risotto.
Mouton Cadet Cuvée Héritage 2020 ★★★★+ $24.95 (Vintages)
An excellent Bordeaux for under $30 is a rare find. This one is primarily from Merlot showing the full-bodied character that has made the region legendary. Look for plum compote, black cherry, cigar box, smoke, tobacco leaf, fresh sage, and a touch of vanilla. The tannins are present, but never overpowering. If you enjoy cellaring, this bottle has the structure to last well into the 2030s. It’s a red that truly shines with roasts, especially a beautifully cooked prime rib.
Pérez Cruz Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 ★★★★ $16.95 (Vintages)
This excellent Chilean Cabernet delivers serious enjoyment at an impressive price; it’s proof that quality doesn’t always come with a premium. It offers textbook varietal character: cassis and black cherry with smoke, leather, nutmeg, vanilla, cedar, sage, and a hint of forest floor. The tannins are characteristically firm yet never overbearing. It’s a natural partner for a ribeye steak or a plate of Southern-style BBQ brisket.