When spreading holiday cheer, I think it's important to do what we can to support our local, independent businesses, from the gifts we give to the foods we share. That's not so easy to do when it comes to wine; Utah isn't exactly wine country. --- But, I would remind you to consider Kiler Grove Winegrowers.

Sandwiched among the industrial buildings that line a short block near 2300 South in South Salt Lake is a winery and tasting room -- Utah’s first “urban winery.” It is home to Kiler Grove Winegrowers. Kiler Grove wines are primarily Rhone-style, showcasing varietals such as Grenache, Mourvedre and Petite Syrah. They only produce one white wine so far: Trebbiano.

I think these “local” wines (with grapes mostly from Paso Robles), would be a terrific choice for much holiday fare – from roasted turkey and baked ham to turduckens and tofurkeys – especially the reds.

Kiler Grove’s Interpretation is said to be “an homage to the southern Rhone”—a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre and Petite Sirah, the latter of which imparts a slight smokiness to this earthy, meaty wine. One of the best wine names ever has to be Zinergy, Kiler Grove’s Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Grenache blend. It’s well-structured, with soft tannins and loads of fruit that remind me of Grandma’s huckleberry jam. For the not-too-faint-of-heart, I suggest trying the big Petite Sirah, brimming with peppery, smoky flavors. This one packs a wallop.

So alongside your holiday meals – assembled from as many locally produced foods as possible – it simply makes sense to go whole hog and pour a local wine.