Sicily is a large, complex island set squarely in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, and for much of its history it has been less a quiet outpost and more a strategic prize.

This begs the question: When, after you have invaded and then integrated your culture into, or maybe on top of another culture, can you then call that region your home? When does that happen? Not sure?

The holidays bring more than just festive decorations, they bring a surge of curiosity about wines that suit celebrations, special dinners, and gift-giving. Wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike are searching for wines that offer excitement, approachability, and a sense of occasion. This year, searches spike for bubbly wines, crisp whites, aromatic orange wines, chillable reds, and approachable alternatives to Cabernet. Each category resonates with a different kind of holiday moment, and the wines chosen perfectly answer that demand.

Italy is a country where history, art, and wine are woven together seamlessly, and few regions embody this as vividly as Veneto. Situated in the northeast of the country, Veneto is a place where grand canals and gondolas coexist with rolling vineyards and centuries of winemaking tradition. From the bustling city of Venice to the quiet hills where Garganega and Corvina thrive, this region offers not only a feast for the eyes, but also a remarkable variety of wines that reflect its geography, climate, and cultural heritage.