HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The holidays are here, and with all the festive meals and parties, selecting the right wine can feel like a daunting task. So, KHON2.com caught up with Mark Cartland, sommelier and wine director for Island Vintage Wine Bars, who believes that choosing the perfect wine is simpler than it seems. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You “People often think wine pairings are complicated,” Cartland said. “But really, it’s about finding something that enhances the meal. The goal is to complement the flavors of the food, not overpower them.” As the holidays bring together a variety of dishes, everything from savory roasted meats to sweet desserts, Cartland suggests wines that are versatile and balanced. “The wine should be food-friendly,” he explained. “You want something that fits with almost any dish at the table, whether it's turkey, ham, or a variety of side dishes.” One of Cartland's top recommendations for holiday celebrations is champagne. “Champagne is always a good idea. It goes with everything and nothing at the same time. If in doubt, go with champagne,” Cartland shared. “It’s celebratory, it’s fun, and it’s perfect for gatherings.” For a truly special touch, Cartland advises opting for grower-producer champagne. These are champagnes made by producers who grow their own grapes. “These wines are rare,” Cartland said. “They’re unique, and you don’t see them everywhere. If you’re on Oʻahu, you have the opportunity to get these niche, high-quality bottles.” When it comes to specific wine choices for your holiday meal, Cartland suggests a variety that will elevate the experience. Here are some wines Cartland recommended. Morgan –- Chardonnay (Santa Lucia Highlands) Producer: Morgan. Region: Santa Lucia Highlands, California, U.S.A. Varietal: Chardonnay. Vintage: 2023. This vibrant and tropical Chardonnay is a standout. Cartland described it as having a balance of tropical fruit flavors with a creamy texture and bright acidity. “It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for something rich but not overwhelming,” he explained. “It pairs beautifully with everything from roasted turkey to creamy mashed potatoes.” Lindquist –- 50% Chardonnay, 50% Roussanne (Central Coast) Producer: Lindquist. Region: Central Coast, California, U.S.A. Varietal: Chardonnay and Roussanne Blend. Vintage: 2021. For something a bit different, Cartland recommended this Chardonnay-Roussanne blend. “The combination of crisp apple and pear from the Chardonnay, and the honeyed richness from the Roussanne, makes it incredibly versatile,” Cartland said. “It’s perfect for more delicate dishes like roasted vegetables or lighter seafood.” Matanzas Creek Winery –- Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma County) Producer: Matanzas Creek Winery. Region: Sonoma County, California, U.S.A. Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc. Vintage: 2023. Cartland’s recommendation for a crisp white is the Sauvignon Blanc from Matanzas Creek. “This is a bright, refreshing wine that’s perfect for appetizers, or even a Christmas salad,” Cartland said. “The citrusy and herbal notes are a nice contrast to the richer flavors of holiday foods.” Pierre Péters –- Champagne Blanc de Blancs (Grand Cru) Producer: Pierre Péters. Region: Champagne, France. Varietal: 100% Chardonnay. Cuvée: Cuvée de Réserve. Style: Brut. “If you're looking to wow your guests, this Champagne is a must,” said Cartland. “It’s refined, with crisp acidity and notes of green apple. It’s a classic choice, especially for toasting or serving throughout the meal.” Cartland emphasized the elegance of Grand Cru Champagne: “These wines are a celebration of craftsmanship, and this one truly stands out.” Bugey-Cerdon –- La Cueille (Sparkling Rosé) Producer: Patrick Bottex. Region: Bugey-Cerdon, Savoie, France. Varietal: Gamay and Poulsard. Style: Méthode Ancestrale Sparkling Rosé. Cartland also recommended sparkling rosé as a fun and approachable option. “It’s lightly sweet and effervescent, making it a great choice for a variety of holiday dishes,” he said. “This sparkling rosé from Bugey-Cerdon has red berry and floral notes that complement richer foods or even spicy dishes.” Château des Jacques –- Moulin-à-Vent (Clos des Thorins) Producer: Château des Jacques. Region: Beaujolais, France. Varietal: Gamay. Vintage: 2020. For a red wine that pairs well with many holiday meals, Cartland suggests a Cru Beaujolais. “Cru Beaujolais wines, especially from Moulin-à-Vent, have a wonderful structure,” he explains. “This wine has ripe red fruit flavors, floral nuances, and earthy undertones, making it a great match for turkey and side dishes like stuffing.” Tessier –- Electric Ladyland (White Blend) Producer: Tessier Winery. Region: California, U.S.A. Varietal: White Blend. Vintage: 2023. For something more experimental, Cartland loves this white blend from Tessier Winery. “It’s a fun, vibrant wine with citrus and tropical fruit flavors that bring a playful spirit to the table,” Cartland said. “It’s perfect for mixing things up at your holiday gathering.” Laherte Frères –- Champagne Blanc de Blancs (Brut Nature) Producer: Laherte Frères. Region: Champagne, France. Varietal: 100% Chardonnay. Style: Brut Nature. Another Champagne Cartland recommended is from Laherte Frères. “This Champagne is on the dry side, with zesty acidity and a clean finish,” Cartland noted. “It’s perfect for those who prefer a less sweet option, and it’s ideal for pairing with a wide range of holiday foods, from appetizers to main courses.” Cartland believes that wine is meant to bring people together, especially during the holidays. “Wine should be a part of the experience, enhancing the meal and the moment,” he explained. Whether you’re attending a holiday office party, hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Cartland’s recommendations are sure to make the season even more special. You can click here to learn more about Island Vintage Wine Bars. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 By picking wines that are versatile, food-friendly, and balanced, you can elevate your holiday meals, ensuring that everyone, from wine connoisseurs to casual drinkers, will find something to enjoy. So this holiday season, relax, savor the flavors and enjoy the wine!