We all have our holiday traditions, customs handed down from previous generations that, if left out of the festivities, would induce a family riot. Some of us face the additional pressure of the “Martha Stewart effect,” wherein we feel we have to create a holiday fantasy tableau with handmade faux-vintage decorations and shimmering “tablescapes.” I also have been known to wax on about my ideal Christmas, a reverie that includes a snow-blanketed Scottish castle, lots of Champagne, and an entire wheel of Stilton wrapped in a soft white cloth. Or perhaps a leg of beast cooked in the fireplace, then a nap by the Victrola . . .                

Snap out of it, Oakes! Sorry, I fell into my own trap. Enough of this—I hereby call for some “Relaxed Holiday Rules”:

1. Make one big, elaborate dish, and buy the rest from a fancy-food shop, or bribe friends or family members with delicious wine to bring the rest.
2. Eat whatever is in the house, watch football, go for a walk, and drink lots of wine with your family and friends.                
3. Go out and eat Chinese. Bring wine.

Obviously, good wine is the centerpiece of any holiday table, whether that table is Martha Stewart–ized or not. We’ve put together a sampler that’ll cover all your holiday wine needs and keep the assembled revelers contented. Enclosed are some festive recipes in case you feel like ignoring my advice. But remember to relax with a glass of wine—I’ll be right there with you. –Jennifer Oakes

2012 Pic Saint Loup “Cuvée de Mourvèdre” • Château La Roque $19.95
2013 Patrimonio  Rouge “Cru des Agriate” • Domaine Giacometti $19.95
2013 Pinot Blanc • Kuentz-Bas $17.95
2014 Vouvray • Champalou $19.95
2014 Val de Loire Chardonnay • Eric Chevalier $16.00
2014 Côtes-du-Rhône “L'O de Joncier” • Domaine du Joncier $16.00
2014 Corbières Rosé Gris de Gris • Domaine de Fontsainte $14.95
2014 Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge • Domaine de Durban $11.00
2014 Bardolino “Le Fontane” • Corte Gardoni $14.00
2014 Vin de France Brut “Petit Royal” • Lambert de Seyssel $19.00
2014 Bourgueil “Cuvée Alouettes” • Domaine de la Chanteleuserie $16.00
2014 Moscato d'Asti “Sori Gramella” • Elvio Tintero $12.00

Relaxed Holiday Sampler 12-pack
Normally $196.75
SPECIAL SAMPLER PRICE
$145
(a 25% discount)