Ready or not, here we go! The holidays are upon us and it’s such a beautiful time of year to celebrate with friends and family. Sometimes it can get hectic, so this year, I’ve pulled out a few of my favorite recipes that you can prep on a whim for that last minute invitation to a cocktail party or to whip up for an unexpected visitor at your door!

There is nothing that makes you feel more festive than having a bright, cheery cocktail in hand! This Albariño Pomegranate Mint Martini is the perfect solution. You can spike with vodka or keep it less boozy, it’s totally up to you!

 

This tapa of Roasted Pear and Peppercorn Goat Cheese is one of my favorites. If you don’t have Peppercorn Goat Cheese at home, make you own by mixing in freshly grated black pepper. Drizzle honey on top and sprinkle with fresh thyme.

 

These Manchego-Membrillo Roll Ups are one of my most requested tapas. I always have Manchego, Membrillo (Quince Paste) and Prosciutto on hand to put these together. They are pretty, bite sized,bursting with unique flavors and are also easy to transport if you are invited to a gathering. You don’t even need to keep them chilled because the flavors are best at room temp!

 

Caviar anyone? I love these little Holiday Caviar Bites! To cut corners, use some store-bought mashed potatoes. Just microwave them and top with sour cream, caviar and top with chives. Serve with our Sparkling Albariño to kick off the party!

 

This yummy Cranberry Goat Cheese Crostini  recipe is one of my most recent inventions. I like to macerate the dried cranberries in Malbec and keep in a mason jar to have on hand. Take any kind of cracker and spread Cranberry Goat cheese on top, with a couple of the plump cranberries and a pinch of cinnamon. They are delicious with our Tizona by Bokisch Malbec. Use fresh cranberries as a garnish on the platter.

Most of all, try to keep some of these key ingredients at home so you can be ready on a whim! Keep the glasses full and enjoy yourself! Happy Holidays!