As we begin 2025, it’s a great time to explore the diverse and fascinating world of wine. Whether you’re looking to broaden your palate, celebrate milestones, or simply discover something new, we’ve curated a list of 10 standout wines to try this year. Each bottle tells a unique story, offering a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship. From underappreciated varietals to iconic regions, these wines are sure to inspire your next pour.
alta vista estate cabernet franc
The Alta Vista Estate Cabernet Franc is a standout wine to explore in 2025, especially for those looking to rediscover this often-overlooked varietal. While Cabernet Franc is commonly known as a blending grape, it truly shines on its own, offering unique qualities that set it apart. Alta Vista Estate’s high-altitude vineyards in Argentina’s Mendoza region provide the perfect conditions for Cabernet Franc to flourish, balancing vibrant acidity with rich, ripe fruit. This wine showcases the grape’s hallmark characteristics: elegant aromas of red berries, herbs, and a hint of pepper, paired with soft tannins and a refined structure. Its complexity and versatility make it an ideal choice for pairing with a variety of dishes, proving that Cabernet Franc deserves to be celebrated as more than just a supporting player.
Bouvet saphir
Kick off 2025 with a bottle of Bouvet Saphir, a sparkling wine that brings Champagne-worthy elegance at a fraction of the price. Produced in the Loire Valley, this Crémant de Loire is crafted using the méthode traditionnelle, the same meticulous process used in Champagne. This involves a second fermentation in the bottle, resulting in fine, delicate bubbles and a refined texture. Bouvet Saphir dazzles with vibrant flavors of white peach, citrus, and floral notes, complemented by a crisp, clean finish. Perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence, it’s an exceptional choice for those looking to enjoy the sophistication of Champagne without the splurge.
Cakebread Napa Valley Chardonnay
If you’ve ever said, ‘I don’t like Chardonnay,’ 2025 might be the year to rethink that. Many people don’t realize how diverse Chardonnay can be—ranging from rich, oaky, and buttery styles to crisp, fresh ones that skip malolactic fermentation entirely. Cakebread Napa Valley Chardonnay is the perfect introduction to this versatility. Known for its balanced approach, this wine offers the best of both worlds: bright citrus and green apple notes with a hint of toasty oak that never overpowers. With its silky texture, vibrant acidity, and a subtle mineral finish, it’s a Chardonnay that can change minds and set the standard for exploring this beloved varietal.
craggy range sauvignon blanc
Next on the list is my all-time favorite: Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc. After sampling countless Sauvignon Blancs, I can confidently say nothing compares to this exceptional wine. Known for its vibrant aromas of citrus and tropical fruit, beautifully balanced with crisp acidity, it’s a standout in its category. This year, it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves, earning the #11 spot on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2025—a true testament to its quality and craftsmanship. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to see what all the buzz is about.
medici ermete phermento
Step into 2025 with a taste of natural and organic winemaking with Medici Ermete Phermento—a sparkling wine that strikes the perfect balance for those exploring this category. Crafted using the ancestral ‘Pet-Nat’ method, Phermento is a zero-dosage Lambrusco di Sorbara that delivers vibrant notes of fresh berries, floral undertones, and a refreshing, lively fizz. Unlike some natural wines, it’s approachable and less funky, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Recognized for its exceptional quality, it earned the #12 spot on Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Wines list. While this gem can be hard to find in stores, it’s conveniently available on Wine365—so don’t miss your chance to grab a bottle!
Pierre Chavin Zero Signature Sparkling Rosé
Heading into the New Year, resolutions are in full swing! If you’re embracing Dry January or simply looking for a delightful non-alcoholic option, we’ve got you covered. Enter 2025 with style and sophistication by trying the Pierre Chavin Zero Signature Sparkling Rosé. This elegant sparkling rosé offers delicate bubbles and vibrant notes of red berries and citrus, all without the alcohol. Whether you’re toasting to new beginnings or simply enjoying a guilt-free indulgence, this is the perfect sip to kick off the year.
San Guido Guidalberto Toscana IGT
If you’re seeking luxury without breaking the bank, the San Guido Guidalberto Toscana IGT is your answer. Crafted by the legendary Tenuta San Guido—the makers of the world-renowned Sassicaia, a favorite of LeBron James—this wine offers a taste of iconic winemaking heritage at a more accessible price point. While not inexpensive, Guidalberto delivers exceptional quality, blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot for a harmonious profile of dark fruit, spice, and elegant structure. Tenuta San Guido, located in the Bolgheri region of Tuscany, is celebrated for pioneering the ‘Super Tuscan’ revolution, and Guidalberto is a testament to their expertise. It’s a perfect choice for those who crave sophistication.
St. Francis Sonoma County Merlot
Start the New Year by rediscovering a classic with the St. Francis Sonoma County Merlot. Often overshadowed by other varietals—thanks in part to the infamous line in Sideways that gave Merlot an unfair reputation—this wine is here to prove the skeptics wrong. St. Francis has crafted a Merlot that’s both approachable and deeply satisfying, with flavors of ripe plum, black cherry, and hints of mocha balanced by silky tannins and a smooth finish. This Merlot is a standout example of why the varietal deserves more love, making it the perfect bottle to break misconceptions and start 2025 with a fresh perspective on wine.
Taittinger prestige Brut
The Taittinger Pestige Brut is an excellent choice to savor in 2025, offering a refined introduction to the artistry of one of Champagne’s most esteemed family-owned houses. Unlike many larger producers, Taittinger remains family-operated, with a legacy of meticulous craftsmanship and a focus on elegance. The Prestige Brut highlights this dedication with its blend dominated by Chardonnay, lending the wine its signature freshness, creamy texture, and vibrant citrus and white flower notes. The time spent aging in Taittinger’s extensive chalk cellars enhances the wine’s complexity and depth. Perfectly balancing tradition and innovation, this Champagne exemplifies why Taittinger stands apart, delivering not just a celebratory drink but an expression of heritage and passion in every sip.
Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Grand Cru Sommerberg
The Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Grand Cru Sommerberg is an exceptional wine to explore in 2025, particularly if you’re looking to challenge preconceived notions about Riesling. Unlike the sweet, floral Rieslings often associated with the grape, this masterpiece from Alsace is a bone-dry expression with incredible depth and structure. Its dry nature comes from both the terroir and winemaking philosophy: Sommerberg’s steep granite slopes provide excellent drainage, forcing the vines to dig deep for nutrients and concentrate their flavors, while the sunny exposure ensures ripe fruit with balanced acidity. Zind-Humbrecht’s commitment to biodynamic practices enhances the wine while letting the terroir shine through. The result is a Riesling of remarkable minerality, citrus zest, and a long, elegant finish—perfect for those seeking a serious, food-friendly wine with a fresh perspective.
As 2025 unfolds, let these 10 wines be your gateway to new discoveries and memorable experiences. Whether you’re exploring unique varietals, iconic regions, or exceptional craftsmanship, each bottle offers an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the art of winemaking. Cheers to a year of unforgettable pours!
