Like most unrepentant lovers of fine wines, we find the holidays a perfect excuse to reach deep into the cellar for a special bottle or two, and, be it high-achieving bubbles or serious, show-stopping Cabernet Sauvignons, the word "special" seems almost inadequate in describing this month's roster of worthies. We candidly confess to looking forward to the tasting schedule for December each year with keen anticipation, and, once again, we are not disappointed.

We enjoy sparkling wine throughout the year and have never felt compelled to wait for occasions of great moment to indulge, but we admit that the holiday season only fuels our thirst for good bubbly, and, as we are reminded this month, there is no shortage of top-flight local bottlings at a number of price points waiting to make the holidays brighter than ever.

Our annual Cabernet review typically includes some of the most awaited releases of the year, and outstanding new arrivals from Baldacci, Frank Family, Joseph Phelps, Patrimony, Paul Hobbs, Trefethen and Von Strasser, to name but a few, are included in an exciting collection of memorable offerings that is nothing less than an embarrassment of riches.

Even if the season invites a degree of extravagance when picking wines for drinking with family and friends, there are plenty of noteworthy bottles that do not threaten to bust the budget, and this month we look at recommended Chardonnays, Merlots and Pinot Noirs that will not leave one in regret when credit card bills come due in January.